General information

Various locking systems are in use within University buildings, some of which are highly restricted. There are a diversity of systems used because of the evolution of keying systems within the University and also because previously no standard was set as a matter of policy.

The most commonly used of the restricted systems is the Bi-lock Keying System. It is now University policy to use only Bi-locking systems on perimeters of buildings. Department, faculty or school perimeters within buildings also have Bi-lock installations as a matter of policy. The use of this system is becoming more widespread as time goes by and the system is now applied to the great majority of areas in the University, including internal doors within faculties and departments.

The common application of one keying system using a keying hierarchy (master keying) system results in the reduction of the number of keys any individual needs to access various areas within the University, or indeed within one building.

The restricted nature of the Bi-lock system also permits the proper management of key issuance. These keys cannot be copied without proper authorisation.

In consideration of the advantages offered by the Bi-lock system the University has purchased its own Bi-lock keying profile. The key system is now the University standard and in time other keying systems will be phased out of service.

The Bi-lock keying system is compatible with most door furniture (lock hardware) on the market. This compatibility permits high levels of competition to continue to exist when pricing door furniture for replacement. It also allows the keyways only to replaced if existing door furniture is adequate.

The University locksmith is available to the University community to offer advice on any keying and locking issues. The locksmith may assist/support faculties or departments in managing key and lock issues that are dealt with by other areas of Campus Infrastructure Services or private contractors (refer to: Authorisation & Deposits).

The Systems Section and the locksmith maintain a fully equipped workshop and offer the full range of locksmithing services. The section offers a comprehensive key cutting service from its offices. Naturally some restricted profiles may not be able to be cut. Please contact the section or call into the office to enquire about this service.

For the cutting of restricted keys to University facilities please see the section on Authorisation & Deposits.

The Systems Section manages the issuance of magnetic access (swipe) cards. These cards control access to buildings through the University's access control infrastructure. Access to faculties and departments is controlled by the faculty or the department. Accordingly the issuance of access cards is facilitated by the Systems Section acting in consultation with the authority responsible for the area (refer to: Authorisation & Deposits).

The Systems Section provides students, staff and other authorised persons with keys and magnetic cards to access University facilities, with the authorisation of the head of the faculty, school or department concerned.

Persons intending to utilise this service must first approach the administrative section of the department concerned. Order forms or service requisitions may then be completed by that section and signed by the Head of Department. These order forms or requisitions must precisely indicate the service required and advise the departmental account code for cost recovery. Cards and keys are issued upon presentation of appropriate identification together with the properly authorised written request.

A deposit, currently $25.00, is required from casual and non-permanent staff and from students for perimeter keys, and for cards to both perimeter and internal doors. This deposit will be refunded when the items are returned. No deposit is required from permanent staff.

Please note that access is provided on a personal basis. Keys issued are not transferable, nor are they to be used to admit other students, staff or visitors, or to be loaned to others. At all times, responsibility for a key or card rests with the person to whom it is issued.

Students and staff not issued with keys or access cards and wanting to enter a building after hours for any purpose, require written permission from the head of the faculty, school or department. This authority must be lodged with the Security Office in advance.

Failure to notify Security may result in access being denied or delayed. In addition, where after hours access is sought, appropriate identification (usually including a University ID card and Driver's Licence) will be required.

The Security Systems Section supports numerous highly sophisticated alarm networks. These systems include both dial-up and dedicated systems. The systems vary between intruder alarm systems and integrated access control and intruder systems. CCTV systems are being developed and deployed in strategic locations.
Alarm systems are installed strategically in consultation with building users. The purpose of the systems is to enhance the safety of people and their property. The systems restrict access to authorised persons reducing the likelihood of intrusion and theft. These alarm systems are monitored twenty-four hours a day by the University's own fully equipped Central Monitoring Station. Mobile, radio equipped and highly trained Security Officers provide rapid response to alarm and other emergency situations. The access control and alarm systems maintain a permanent record of access and alarm activity. The presence of the alarm systems is supported by 24 hour patrolling by Security Patrol Officers. Persons accessing alarmed areas should familiarise themselves with alarm functions. Some of the systems auto-set, however, others are designed to be set by users. Persons commonly using alarmed areas are all responsible for the integrity of the system. The security of people and their property is everyone's responsibility and alarm systems form only one part of integrated security. Other important basic and simple security functions are:
Patrolling. Awareness of personal safety and areas of risk. Common sense. Securing doors on exit and if remaining after hours. Setting alarms on departure. Having alarms suitable to user behaviours. Awareness of surroundings. Challenging strangers to your area in appropriate circumstances. Availability of emergency numbers (Security/Police), locations of phones or emergency contact points. Knowledge of others remaining in buildings after hours. After hours lighting. Location of transport, especially if working late. Reporting any suspicious behaviour to Security.
The Security Systems Section can offer advice and training on the techniques for arming and disarming alarm panels. Advice can also be given on the responsibilities of departments, Security and contractors in relation to the system. In addition, the Section can offer support to departments requiring assessments or advice about new or replacement security infrastructure.

The loss of keys or access cards should be reported immediately to the Systems Section during business hours. After hours, the Security Patrol should be informed on (02) 9351 3487.

Policy procedures for electronic security systems. Adobe PDF Format

List of Cardax approved installers and resellers for Cardax hardware Products (excluding front end software) for the University of Sydney. Adobe PDF Format

Request for Authorized Signatories. This form advises Security personnel who may authorise key, access card, lock and alarm requests. Adobe PDF Format - MS Word Format.