CPL Key Systems & Key Control 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In a master key system, what term describes a key that operates all locks within a single department or zone?
- Grand master key
- Change key
- Sub-master key (Correct answer)
- Control key
Correct answer: Sub-master key
A sub-master key operates all locks within a specific department or zone, sitting between the change key and master key in the hierarchy.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a key control log in a commercial facility?
- To record the number of keys cut per month
- To track who has been issued which keys and when (Correct answer)
- To document lock maintenance schedules
- To list all lock manufacturers on site
Correct answer: To track who has been issued which keys and when
A key control log tracks key issuance, returns, and accountability to maintain security and audit trails.
Question 3: Which key system feature prevents unauthorized key duplication at a hardware store?
- High-security cylinder pins
- Patent-protected keyway restrictions (Correct answer)
- Longer key blades
- Deeper key cuts
Correct answer: Patent-protected keyway restrictions
Patent-protected keyways are restricted by law, preventing blanks from being sold to non-authorized dealers.
Question 4: A 'do not duplicate' stamp on a key is considered:
- A legally enforceable duplication ban
- An honor system with no legal force (Correct answer)
- A manufacturer warranty requirement
- A ANSI security rating indicator
Correct answer: An honor system with no legal force
'Do not duplicate' markings are not legally enforceable and any locksmith or hardware store may still copy the key.
Question 5: In a large master key system, what is a 'grand master key' (GMK)?
- A key that opens only the highest-security locks
- A key that operates all locks across all groups in the system (Correct answer)
- A key cut to the deepest possible bitting
- A key issued only to the facilities manager
Correct answer: A key that operates all locks across all groups in the system
A grand master key operates every lock in the entire system, sitting at the top of the key hierarchy.
Question 6: What is 'key bitting'?
- The process of stamping a key number on the bow
- The specific cut depths and spacing on a key blade (Correct answer)
- The angle at which a key enters a keyway
- The material hardness of the key blank
Correct answer: The specific cut depths and spacing on a key blade
Key bitting refers to the precise cut depths and positions on a key blade that correspond to pin heights in the cylinder.
Question 7: When expanding an existing master key system, what is the main risk to avoid?
- Exceeding the number of key blanks available
- Cross-keying, where unintended keys operate locks (Correct answer)
- Using too many sub-master levels
- Issuing keys with identical bow shapes
Correct answer: Cross-keying, where unintended keys operate locks
Cross-keying occurs when a key unintentionally operates a lock it was not designed for, compromising security.
CPL Key Systems & Key Control 2
In a master key system, what term describes a key that operates all locks within a single department or zone?