When dealing with diverse security requirements for lockers, cabinets, drawers and other smaller openings, the conventional approach of relying solely on physical mechanical keys may not be the best solution.

 

The landscape of security requirements has evolved, with many organisations now demanding more innovative alternatives tailored to specific needs. These include those in environments such as commercial offices, hospitals, care homes, educational premises, gyms and leisure facilities, and many more.

 

There may be sensitive assets and valuable belongings in any kind of shared space that require securing. Areas include lockers, document cabinets and drawers, medicine cupboards and trolleys, retail-floor storage and display, and storage space at flexible working offices or hotdesking spaces.

 

In response to this demand, the way in which we secure these smaller openings is being revolutionised, bringing security to many access points beyond just doors. It is now possible to have a reliable, agile, and scalable solution, that not only offers peace of mind when it comes to security but can grow with an organisation to meet ever changing requirements.

 

A smarter solution

With this in mind, Abloy UK has launched the new Aperio KL100 – a battery powered wireless access solution for lockers, cabinets, cupboards and drawers.

 

The solution allows almost any small opening to become an integral part of an access control system, helping to secure things such as personal valuables, medicines, sensitive documents, retail stock, sports kit and more, while deterring unauthorised access and theft.

 

The wireless lock needs no specialist maintenance and is powered by one battery, which only uses power when a credential is presented, removing the hassle and inflexibility of physical mechanical keys.

 

What’s more, the Aperio KL100 can be operated with mobile keys via Bluetooth Low Energy and NFC, as well as smartcards and fobs using all major RFID technologies. The solution can also be used with multiple credential technologies simultaneously, meaning security managers can implement mobile keys when convenient.

 

Easy to install and use

Available in two different lengths and several CAM options, the KL100 is a straightforward retrofit solution, and can be fitted to almost any wooden or metal locker, cabinet, or drawer.

 

Installation is quick and simple, and the wire-free solution is designed for minimal disruption to furniture. It’s contemporary, low-profile design and power provided by a single, standard lithium battery make it a modern and futureproof option.

 

The Aperio KL100 integrates seamlessly with any new or existing access control and security system - from over 100 different manufacturers and counting. Plus, Aperio supports a wide range of current credentials as well as BLE and NFC Mobile credentials.

 

System managers can choose between connected Online, Offline or OSS compliant integration. Online management enables real-time control over every KL100 lock, with easy access rights administration and instant availability of audit trails for any opening or user — which makes incident investigation fast and accurate.

 

Securing healthcare environments

One sector that the issue of securing personal belongings and valuables is especially pertinent is healthcare. In one NHS Trust alone, it was revealed that more than £273,000 was paid to patients and their families as compensation for lost possessions over a five-year period.

Certain areas within healthcare settings, such as the storage of bedside medication, require convenient yet secure on demand access for staff and patients alike. However, physical mechanical keys may not be the most convenient solution for the safekeeping of other products, assets, and patient possessions.

Locking draws, lockers, and bedside cabinets doesn’t need to be a pain, and by embracing more adaptive and advanced technologies, such as the Aperio KL100, healthcare providers can not only enhance security but also improve convenience for patients.

The user-friendly system is ideal for hospital settings, providing traceable, flexible, and secure digital access for the safekeeping of items. It is convenient for the storage of medication in hospitals and a secure way for patients to store possessions without the need for physical mechanical keys.

The system offers a comprehensive audit trail to identify who unlocked a cabinet and when – allowing tailor-made access and ensuring that patients have responsibility over their own belongings.

What’s more, staff carry their own programmable credential, meaning they no longer waste time waiting for the keyholder to medicine cabinets. This reduces the risk of lost keys, and credentials can be swiftly and easily revoked if required.

There are a variety of uses for this keyless lock, such as on bedside lockers in hospitals and POD lockers – which patients can store their own medication in – and storage within portable EPMA dispensing carts used by staff.

It can be an effective way for patients to keep personal belongings and medication safe without the use of a key. Once they are discharged the card or wristband can then be discarded and a new card programmed to the system.

Ultimately, controlling authorised access should not end at the door, and securing smaller openings – whether they contain sensitive files, controlled drugs, or personal belongings – is equally as important and should have just as much emphasis placed upon it.