ALOA Master Key Systems and Keying 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is a 'sectional' or 'patented' keyway, and how does it support key control?
- A keyway protected by patent law so that key blanks cannot be legally duplicated without authorization, limiting who can copy keys (Correct answer)
- A keyway divided into sections for different master key levels
- A keyway with a cross-shaped profile for high security
- A keyway that requires a special insertion tool
Correct answer: A keyway protected by patent law so that key blanks cannot be legally duplicated without authorization, limiting who can copy keys
Patented/restricted keyways have legal protections preventing unauthorized key blank duplication, ensuring only authorized dealers can cut new keys.
Question 2: In a master key system, what is a 'cross-keying' problem?
- When two or more change keys in the same system can operate each other's locks, which is an unintended security flaw (Correct answer)
- When a master key opens a lock in a different building system
- When a key is cut to work in both vertical and horizontal keyways
- When the grand master key stops working due to worn pins
Correct answer: When two or more change keys in the same system can operate each other's locks, which is an unintended security flaw
Cross-keying occurs when the combination of master wafers and change key bitting accidentally creates a shear line that allows an unintended change key to open a different lock in the system.
Question 3: What does 'keying alike' mean?
- Multiple locks are configured to operate with the same key (Correct answer)
- Multiple locks share the same master key but have different change keys
- All locks in a building are keyed to a single grand master
- Locks are re-keyed to eliminate worn bitting
Correct answer: Multiple locks are configured to operate with the same key
Keying alike (KA) means two or more locks are set to the same key bitting so a single key can operate all of them, regardless of whether a master key system is in place.
Question 4: What is a 'key bitting specification' sheet used for by locksmiths building a master key system?
- To record the cut depths assigned to each key in the system, ensuring correct combinations are maintained and cross-keying is avoided (Correct answer)
- To document which keys have been issued to employees
- To list the hardware specifications of each lock in the system
- To specify the key machine settings for each key
Correct answer: To record the cut depths assigned to each key in the system, ensuring correct combinations are maintained and cross-keying is avoided
A key bitting specification sheet records each key's cut depths, allowing the locksmith to track all combinations in use and mathematically verify there are no cross-keying conflicts.
Question 5: What is the function of a 'construction master key' (CMK) in new building projects?
- A temporary master key used during construction that is rendered inoperative when the building owner's permanent keys are first used (Correct answer)
- A key that only opens exterior doors during construction
- A key held by the general contractor for subcontractor access
- A key that operates all utility and mechanical rooms
Correct answer: A temporary master key used during construction that is rendered inoperative when the building owner's permanent keys are first used
A construction master key allows construction workers access during building but is designed to be disabled (made inoperative) when the permanent change keys or owner's master keys are first inserted.
Question 6: What is a 'great grand master key' (GGMK) in a multi-level keying hierarchy?
- A key that operates all locks in the system and sits above the grand master key level, typically used for a campus or multi-building complex (Correct answer)
- A ceremonial key given to building owners
- A key that overrides electronic access control
- The highest-security change key in the system
Correct answer: A key that operates all locks in the system and sits above the grand master key level, typically used for a campus or multi-building complex
A great grand master key (GGMK) is a hierarchy level above the grand master key, used in large systems (e.g., university campuses) to provide access to multiple buildings each with their own GMK.
ALOA Master Key Systems and Keying 2
What is a 'sectional' or 'patented' keyway, and how does it support key control?