In January 2022, Independent Locksmiths & Security was awarded a significant four-year locksmith services contract with Hunter Water, a critical utilities provider. The agreement includes options for three additional two-year extensions. This long-term partnership represents a strategic initiative to enhance the physical security and operational efficiency of Hunter Water’s facilities through the design and implementation of a highly secure, restricted master key system.

Project Overview

Hunter Water’s existing lock and key infrastructure was diverse and required consolidation into a single, highly secure system. The project scope included a detailed assessment and transition from legacy systems to a new master key solution that meets stringent security and durability requirements. Key priorities included:

• A unique restricted key profile exclusive to Hunter Water, with patent protection extending beyond 2035.
• Hardware specified for durability and corrosion resistance, suitable for a range of service environments.
• Cylinders engineered to resist picking, bumping, and drilling attacks.
• The potential introduction of an electro-mechanical or comparable locking system for high-risk sites.

Approach and Execution

ILS began with a comprehensive on-site audit of all Hunter Water locations. Our team inspected each site to document existing lock systems, assess physical site conditions, and highlight logistical challenges. A detailed, practical transition plan was developed which incorporated:

• Timelines and milestones aligned with Hunter Water’s operational schedules.
• Resource allocation strategies to minimise disruption and maximise efficiency.
• Documentation protocols using a professional key management database to capture lock locations, hardware specifications, and key hierarchies.

Throughout the project, ILS maintained close collaboration with Hunter Water stakeholders to ensure alignment with security policies, compliance standards, and evolving operational needs.

Outcome and Benefits

By managing the entire transition process, ILS has provided Hunter Water with a modern, integrated master key system designed for longevity, enhanced security, and simplified key management. The system’s robust hardware and restricted key profile ensure protection against unauthorised access, while the scalable design allows for future expansion and integration of advanced locking technologies.

This contract underscores ILS’s capacity to deliver complex, large-scale locksmithing projects in sensitive environments, combining technical expertise, rigorous planning, and client-focused service.

Summary: 

Independent Locksmiths & Security transitioned Hunter Water’s fragmented lock systems into a secure, unified master key solution. With corrosion-resistant hardware, high-security cylinders, and professional key management documentation, the new system is built for resilience and scalability. ILS continues to support Hunter Water with comprehensive services that align with stringent security requirements and operational demands across a diverse range of service environments.

Partner with ILS for Proven Security Solutions

Our work with Hunter Water demonstrates our capability to deliver secure, scalable master key systems for critical infrastructure. If your organisation requires a trusted locksmith partner with deep experience in utilities and complex environments, contact us to discuss a tailored solution.