The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati, serving Hamilton County, Ohio, has implemented the KeyWatcher® key control and management system to enhance security and operational efficiency.
This system assists in managing 180 keys critical for the operation of various vehicles and equipment, vital to the district's services. The facility accommodates approximately 150 employees who access these keys as needed.
24/7 Key Management
The key management system includes three cabinets strategically placed on a catwalk in a vast garage, accessible to employees around the clock.
Access is granted through employee ID badges with embedded RFID chips
Additional cabinets are installed in other areas such as the maintenance shop, a different building wing, and the mechanics’ section. Each cabinet can hold up to 48 keys, grouped by function—including customer service, repair, inspection, and heavy equipment. Access is granted through employee ID badges with embedded RFID chips, facilitating efficient and secure key distribution.
Improved System Transparency
Previously, the district relied on a less dependable system involving pegboards and spare key boxes. This outdated method often resulted in keys being misplaced or not accounted for, as outlined by Rahn A. Wuest, Wastewater Collections Supervisor. “The system was not accurate and didn’t work very well. Employees would often take keys home or put them in a locker, and no one would know who had which keys,” Wuest explained.
Enhanced Accountability through Software Integration
The incorporation of KeyPro III software allows for precise tracking of SmartKey rings, associating them with specific vehicle numbers. The system not only tracks usage but also sends alerts if keys remain unchecked for over 20 hours.
The system not only tracks usage but also sends alerts if keys remain unchecked for over 20 hours
This monitoring capability streamlines the management of vehicle keys, ensuring that only authorized employees can access certain keys while providing transparency.
Furthermore, detailed reports on vehicle usage and operator details become available, aiding in monitoring and accountability. In cases of reported incidents involving district vehicles, the system can verify the assigned driver at any given time.
Operational Efficiency Improvements
Since the introduction of the KeyWatcher system, the district has experienced a decrease in lost keys, reducing the need for spare keys.
Although employees maintain primary responsibility for their designated vehicles, the system ensures availability for other users as necessary. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for out-of-hours service calls. By streamlining key access and control, the system enhances work convenience while safeguarding district resources, contributing to a more secure and efficient operational environment.
Try our KeyWatcher Configurator tool to design your ideal system to meet your requirements (Note: if using a mobile device, please turn the phone to landscape mode.)
