Anybody who is a sports fan knows deep down that, even though their respective sport does not change in terms of how the game is played (i.e., five on five for basketball), the game has evolved beyond what they knew when they were little — beyond simply cheering for their favorite teams or players.
For instance, in basketball, the point guard was usually the offensive initiator; nowadays, most players have good ball-handling skills. That is why some teams now have a point forward. The skill level is top-notch, the pace of the game is tremendously fast and more points are being recorded from average players.
That is why it is essential to discuss how the locksmith’s (security professional’s) role has changed in the fast-paced world of security integrators, where, now more than ever, this alliance is not only a necessity but also a way of survival in this tough economy.
From Maglocks and Strikes to True Door Hardware
What has changed? And where is the comparison? A similar trend can be observed in the security systems field, where many integrators prefer maglocks and electric strikes as the primary solution for access control projects.
This might have been on trend about 10 years ago. Currently, end users are seeking the most effective turnkey solutions, which have significantly shifted the landscape of electronic access control (EAC).
One reason maglocks and electric strikes are less favored is their lack of aesthetic appeal.
Last week, during a call with a consultant, he mentioned, “Most integrators use maglocks and strikes to avoid the carpentry and precision involved in installing EAC.”
I agree with this and I have noticed it in several projects. This is a common situation and an understandable choice for many integrators who do not have the skills to mortise locks or install electrified locksets, such as a quiet electric latch retraction (QEL) crash bar, simply because they are not experienced with hardware installation.
This does not mean maglocks should be avoided entirely; instead, they should be used where suitable. For example, on an all-glass door with limited latching options, maglocks can be effective if they comply with code requirements.
This is also common in healthcare and other sectors where delayed or controlled egress is necessary; maglocks can be a practical solution in these cases. However, the real improvement is not another maglock or surface strike but, rather, properly installed electromechanical hardware.
When locks, panic devices and hinges are electrified, egress remains fully mechanical: pushing the lever or bar opens the door every time, even under challenging conditions. This aligns with modern life safety codes, which require doors on egress paths to open without hidden buttons or sensors. The egress must be free.
The Locksmith as the New “Point Forward”
Conversely, when integrators operate independently, they frequently opt for a mag or quick strike since they do not need to core the door or invest $2,000 in jigs and tooling necessary for proper hardware installation. This is when we observe damaged frames, air gaps large enough to fit a finger through and complex fire-code issues.
The scenario has changed, much like in basketball, where the modern power forward now handles the ball and initiates the offense. In our industry, the locksmith fulfills this role, serving as the individual who manages the entire process, ensures life safety and delivers the system the integrator requires.
To achieve safer buildings, reduce callbacks and provide smoother project completions, we must stop viewing locksmiths as secondary players and integrate them into the starting five.
Protecting the Door in the Electronic Access Control Era
There are three key areas that integrators must master to make a significant impact in the industry and improve lives: securing, controlling and protecting the door. With modern access control being integrated rather than isolated, locksmiths and integrators should form a unified team with distinct roles: locksmiths handle the hardware and integrators manage the system.
This collaboration represents a successful approach in the field of electronic access control.
My advice for integrators: Involve locksmiths in your projects as subcontractors, seek their expertise or invest in training your staff. My advice for locksmiths: While not all possess the skills required to advance, those who are true security professionals will adopt a forward-thinking mindset..
Yes, integrators ensure all components function together smoothly, minimizing obstacles, maximizing uptime and enhancing system intelligence. But what does the industry demand? What will lead to success and long-term viability?
There is an urgent need for a partnership between integrators and locksmiths. The new era of electronic access control is here and only those willing to be bold and innovative will achieve operational efficiency and increased revenue. We must develop buildings that not only function today but also will continue to do so five years from now and beyond.
Eddy Dacius is the founder of Dacius Facilities Management.
