We come to you today with a warning and clarification regarding the creation of the Gerda keys upon which many of our security products rely, since it has come to our attention that at least one website claiming to offer key cutting services for Gerda keys is trading on the internet. Here we’ll explain why obtaining keys from establishments willing to unlawfully copy a Gerda key is not a good idea, as well as the proper way to have a spare Gerda key made if you need one.

Why Gerda Keys Are Different

Why should I obtain a key from Gerda Security and not another website advertising Gerda keys?

• First, Gerda Security Products Ltd is the only authorised channel for Gerda keys, as different keys relate to different locking systems. Customers are advised to purchase directly to guarantee they receive the correct key for their unique locking mechanism.
• Second, Gerda keys are linked to a registered key system and an authorised key signatory. This safeguard is in place to maintain the integrity and security of the locking system, providing users with assurance that their keys are secure and their access control is managed appropriately.
• Third, obtaining keys from unauthorised key-cutting services can lead to significant security risks. These keys are not genuine and may not conform to the stringent standards set by Gerda. Additionally, the use of non-genuine keys voids end product warranty.

What’s the issue?

Gerda keys are designed as part of the overall product locking system and each product has a different locking system. Emergency Access System products are designed for the building provider and provide restricted access.

We understand that contractors wish to obtain keys quickly to access equipment in areas of restricted access, however there is an authorised key signatory system in place for a reason.

Any keys required need to be authorised by the authorised key signatory to maintain the integrity of their systems. Buying elsewhere is unlawful and risks keys being sold at very high prices and not working as expected.

In light of recent updates to legislation, namely the Fire Safety England 2022 Regulations for Maintenance of Equipment for the Use of Operational Firefighters, it’s important to ensure operational use. It’s therefore required that correct parts and components are maintained, including with the correctly sourced keys.

All the Emergency Access Systems (high performance, high security locking systems with registered keys, including the H System for areas of restricted access and Barrier Gate lock system for vehicular access management) are customer specific, and not interchangeable between products.

These systems assist in reducing anti-social behaviour, minimising damage and maintaining operational use for firefighters in the event of an incident.

You will appreciate that our concerns emanate from a desire to ensure that the Gerda keys cannot be used for wrongful and improper purposes, and that the keys and associated products operate as they should do in the event of an incident.

What you need to know

We want to state clearly that any private ‘Gerda’ key-cutting services have absolutely no relationship or affiliation with us and certainly aren’t legally endorsed by Gerda Security Products in any way – quite the opposite, in fact. The service they are offering represents an illegitimate method of obtaining Gerda keys, which we do not condone or support as it undermines the security that our products offer. In order to ensure that you receive a genuine product that upholds your warranty, please ensure that you only order your keys through Gerda Security Products. Simply contact us and acquire them through legitimate means.