A Key Decision

A number of lock options are available for containers and consoles used in the secure collection of documents destined for destruction, ranging from basic cam-locks or spring-loaded bolt locks to more sophisticated electronic locks. The variety of options a destruction firm provides is often in response to client demands, which are influenced by their desired level of security.

"It is critical to understand that there is no longer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to locking options for consoles and wheeled containers," says Richard Tennant, sales manager, Jake, Connor & Crew, Kitchener, Ontario.

Jim Kilch of Kilch Enterprises Inc., Marietta, Ga., suggests destruction firms focus on the primary reason for locks when sifting through options. "Make sure your choice offers high quality, strength and durability. Similarly, a system that reduces or eliminates the potential for human error to leave a container unsecured post-servicing should be a major consideration. And your bottom line is enhanced if your locking system allows quick servicing without compromising security."

When it comes to lock options, a destruction company and its clients will need to weigh security needs with the associated costs. "Cost is the biggest drawback when it comes to upgrading security," Tennant says. "More complex locking mechanisms result in more costs for installation and acquisition."

"The majority of consoles have an integrated lock—generally either a cam lock or spring-loaded bolt lock," Kilch says. "A cam lock has a base where a key is inserted and used to rotate the cam (a finger-like extension) that does the latching. A spring-loaded bolt lock features a sliding bolt with a beveled face. The bolt retracts when subject to physical pressure, as by turning the key. The bolt springs back when the key is removed and pressure released."

Carts typically offer more internal and external locking options than consoles, Kilch says. "Internal locking could involve a system of rods or a simple cam lock. External locking typically involves a hasp that is secured inside of the cart base," he says. "The upper end of the hasp fits through a slit in the lid and has a small opening that will accommodate a standard padlock."

Tennant says, "Multi-digit combo locks combined with master keys are also gaining popularity within the industry because they offer a combination code for a specific console as well as the ability to change that code should you move that console to a different location."

Slam locks for consoles are gaining interest, says Joan Hogg of CK Designs Manufacturing, Harriston, Ontario. These locks are engineered to lock automatically when the operator shuts the console door, eliminating the need to remember to lock the console after servicing.

Pete Pancel of All Source Security Container Mfg. Corp., Barrie, Ontario, says slam locks offer a higher level of security than more traditional locking options. "It’s an improvement over the cam-locking system," he says.

All Source is offering its customers slam lock options with proprietary key codes. "The market is not really demanding anything else at this point," Pancel says.

He adds that shredding companies currently are more concerned with the overall security of their containers in terms of durability than they are with higher security lock options. "The quality of the containers is the most important thing when thinking about the security of your containers," Pancel adds. "The locking system is one component of that kind of security."

Tennant says shredding firms are demanding different key series with Jake, Connor & Crew’s traditional locking mechanisms in response to the growth in professional shredding services. "Many of our customers have clients within the same building," he says. "Security of consoles and bins is critical. Our electronic lock options alleviate this concern and provide the highest level of security available. They are becoming the locking option of choice for many of the end-user companies." Tennant adds, "Our clients appreciate the ease of use for their drivers."

Jake, Connor & Crew added electronic locks in several variations to its product line in 2009 in response to changes to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), he says.

The type of lock used on a console or container is just one area a destruction firm and its clients need to consider. Key codes are another area of interest.

"Over the past several years, there has been a strong effort to streamline container servicing operations," Kilch says. "As new products have come on the market, key codes have come and gone, and companies have blended inventories, security providers have found themselves fumbling through a number of different keys. Unfortunately, the response to develop standardized key codes has compromised security." He adds, "Market adjustment is now leading to strong demand for controlled key codes so that a company can enjoy the convenience of using just a few keys without worrying that their competitor across the street has those same keys."

All Source began offering exclusive key codes this year. According to the company, it offers exclusive key codes that are proprietary to a specific geographic area, ensuring that only one custom key code will be used per shredding service provider in a geographic area. "This adds increased security and removes the risk of other shredders or their customers being able to open secured bins," according to a press release issued by All Source.

The company’s Panel says in the press release, "We look forward to the positive changes it will have on the shredding industry and the increased security it will provide to our customers."

Frank Minnella of Lock America International, Corona, Calif., stresses the importance of exclusive key codes in the secure destruction industry. He encourages all shredding company owners to inquire about exclusive key codes for their containers and consoles as an added security measure that could appeal to potential clients.

Tennant warns destruction firm owners that the locking options of five or 10 years ago may not satisfy the requirements of some customers today. "They need to be competitive and offer choices of lock options that allow them to deliver the level of security that their customers require for their operations," he says. "It is important that the customer understand that the added cost of security is their ultimate responsibility."

Tennant adds, "We provide our customers, the shredding companies, with the solutions; however, it is the end user who has and makes the final decision."

The author is editor of Storage & Destruction Business magazine and can be reached at dtoto@gie.net.