SOLUTIONS BY EXPERTISE

For 40 years, our focus on high security keying technology has seen the company grow to where it is today - the industry leader in master keying technology. From small retail tenancies, to multi storey apartment complexes, sporting arenas, broad-acre plants and national defence projects, a diverse base of over 15,000 clients stands testimony to our ability to fulfil works of unlimited scope.

OLD Master Key Systems

How old is your existing master key system?

Is your key system reaching the end of its serviceable life?

Generally speaking, most key systems have a life span of about 20 years. During that time, parts and components become less readily available and eventually, become unserviceable. What does that mean? Ultimately, it means that eventually, key blanks won’t be available e.g.: no more keys can be cut.

So, are keys still available for your key system? Is your key system still patent protected? These are all important questions to understand when assessing the lifecycle of your restricted master key system.
As key systems approach 'end of life' it’s important that planning is undertaken for the upgrade, replacement and potential re-design of these systems. For almost 50 years, Omega Security Solutions have been exactly that. We design restricted master key systems for some of Victoria’s largest companies and most complex sites.

What is a patent protected restricted key system?

If your key system is patented, it’s a good thing! It means that your key’s design has been recognised by patent agencies for exclusivity and ultimately, has been designed with security in mind. A patented restricted key system is the ultimate in key security and allows for restricting the number of keys produced in that system. Only registered locksmiths holding the restricted system can cut keys for that system. This prevents unauthorised parties from cutting keys, compromising the system.

A patent usually lasts for around 20 years and this is the same for keys. During the patent period, a patent protected key cannot be legally reproduced. When it expires, other manufacturers can produce similar/same key designs.

So, if your key systems patent has run out, it’s still safe and somewhat secure to use. The exclusivity of its design is no longer however and this runs in contrast to why you purchased the system in the first place.

Additionally, basic hygiene of any restricted key system is to perform regular key audits. Can you account for all keys that have been cut, in particular, Master Keys and Grand Master Keys? If you can’t account for keys in your system, it’s compromised and should be replaced.

Below are some key systems that are either obsolete or have expired patents. If in doubt, call an Omega licensed security advisor on 03 9689-3488 or send us a photo of your key to sales@omegacorp.com.au

Old Expired Patent Key Types

Inline 6 Pin		There are many types on Inline 6 pin systems. Many are so old that key blanks are no longer available, meaning that cutting new keys is no longer possible. If your restricted key system has this type of key, you should consider a new restricted keying system soon.Typical types are: ML, V7, P1 – P3, HK, KN, HN
BiLock First Generation (FG) BiLock New Generation (NG)		First produced in the 1980s, Bilock First Generation (FG) was a high-security patented keying system. Replaced by the New Generation (NG) system in 2000, patents on both FG and NG systems have expired. The new Bilock Exclusive system has replaced both systems, it’s patent is not due for expiration until 2034. BILock systems are deemed high-security and they are SCEC endorsed.
Lockwood Twin		The Lockwood Twin system’s patent has expired. It’s a common key system that has been in circulation since 1999. Key blanks are readily available at this point.
Abloy Protec		Whilst the patent for the Protec expired in 2019, it has been replaced by the Protec2 model. Both systems are deemed high-security and the Protec system is SCEC endorsed.
Abloy Disclock Pro		Introduced in 1992, the product was the precursor of the Protec product. The first generation of this product is no longer supported. If your restricted key system has this type of key, you should consider a new restricted keying system very soon. Abloy has discontinued production of components, so locks and keys will not be available for purchase as soon as stocks are depleted.

Learn more about master key systems here: Master Key Systems

To arrange a meeting with one of our representatives to discuss and design your specific security requirements, please Contact Us