Glossary of Terms
Cylinder – Refers to the assembly made up of plug, housing, bottom pins, top pins and springs. Often called a “barrel” or “tumbler”.
Fitting keys – When cutting a key blank to suit the existing pin combination of a lock.
Keyless entry (automotive) – Frequently confused with the transponder immobilisation system of a car, the keyless entry is often an independent system. Its role is purely just to unlock the car doors or boot.
Keyless entry (domestic or commercial) – Locks where the primary locking system doesn’t require a key. Often these systems use cards, combinations or biometric passkeys. These systems can be standalone battery powered solutions, or more complex wired or wireless units, or even a hybrid of both.
Master keying – The keying of a cylinder to receive several keys of different combinations.
Master key system – A hierarchical system of keying to control the access of users depending on the key issued to them.
Rekey – The action of changing the pins inside a lock cylinder to suit another key.
Restricted keys and locks – Keys and locks that are supplied by locksmiths that can only be duplicated by authorised signatories. These systems give greater key control as they don’t allow for unauthorised duplication of keys.
SCEC – The Security Construction and Equipment Committee (SCEC) is a standing inter-departmental committee responsible for the evaluation of security equipment for use by Australian Government departments and agencies.
SCEC Approved Locksmith – The SCEC Approved Locksmith scheme provides Australian Government agencies with Locksmiths who have demonstrated the necessary skills as well as having met high standards of integrity, honesty and confidentiality required of personnel working for or on behalf of the Australian Government. SCEC administers these schemes on behalf of, and with the endorsement of, the Protective Security Policy Committee.
SCEC Approved Locksmiths maintain mechanical and digital combination locks fitted to SCEC approved containers as listed in the Security Equipment Evaluated Products List (SEEPL). SCEC also recommends approved locksmiths are used to install locks and associated hardware in Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) Security Zones 4 and 5.
Approval of applicants to the scheme is dependent on the person meeting the criteria and being assessed as a fit and proper person. SCEC Approved Locksmiths are required to renew their approval every four years.
Transponder – The glass or carbon chip that is often embedded in the plastic head of automotive keys unbeknownst to the owner. These chips do not require batteries as they are powered by an induction coil of wire around the face of the ignition of the car. They emit a signal and allow the car to start.