In the past years, locksmiths have become one of the most sought-after breeds of technicians. The days of padlocks and keys are gone and now every security gadget has become a little bit more complex, thanks to the advancement and penetration of technology in every sphere of consumer good.
Now, a typical locksmith works on locks and doors, safe boxes, windows, etc. They are entrusted to install, repair, and replace locks on whatever needs active security from theft, from cars and compounds to all the way to corporate safe houses. Apart from installing locks in place, they help the clients open them safely if they misplace keys and are locked out of their automobiles or homes.
Locksmiths are an ancient breed and have been around since the beginning of civilization. Yet, their roles and duties are still shrouded in a mystery.
In this post, we are going to explore;
- Who is a locksmith?
- Services that locksmith provides
- How to become one?
Who is A Locksmith?
Essentially, whenever you need something to be done with a typical lock or a modern security system, you need a locksmith. A locksmith is a trained professional who installs, repairs, and adjusts locks in residential, commercial, and automotive sites. The role does not end at installing hardware or software. Based on the range of services and specialization, a locksmith rekey locks bypasses security systems, and alters lock security combinations after due authorization for the convenience of clients.
Locksmiths put an active check on the mobility of tangible items moving in and out of a facility. This is why they are always in demand in residential, commercial, and industrial capacities to prevent intrusion from unwelcome guests.
What Does A Locksmith Do?
There are misconceptions in common people’s minds for just about any profession, and locksmiths are not immune to this. Although it is one of the oldest professions, folks are still in the dark as to the range of services and duties that locksmiths provide to their clients.
Here are some of the salient locksmith duties that they perform depending on their expertise.
1- Cut Keys & Rekeying Services
If someone breaks a key in the lock or the lock is altered somehow, then a locksmith can help in this regard. It takes a couple of minutes, typically, to cut keys from the locks and then some more to make a new one.
2- Doors & Windows Locks Services
This is one of the most common jobs of locksmiths. They are entrusted by their clients to install locks on doors and windows. It could be a residential, commercial, or industrial space. In addition to the installation of hardware, locksmiths are also hired to repair or replace hardware in case of breakage, wear and tear, etc.
3- Security Safes Lock Services
Not many people require security safes in their place, but when they do, they call professional locksmiths to make it secure for them. Locksmiths install appropriate locks on security vaults and safes to ensure restricted access to the contents of said safes and security boxes.
4- Auto Locksmith Services
Based on their range of services, many locksmiths offer auto lock repair and installation services. Keep in mind that the nature of locks on doors and windows of a house and that of a car is different and requires another set of tools and expertise.
Apart from typical key cutting and re-keying services, auto locksmiths can work their way around remote keys and transponders, key fobs, etc.
5- Access Control Systems (ACS) Services
Again, this is a specialty that is limited to only a handful of elite locksmiths. Still, those who install modern, electronic access control systems are locksmiths.
6- Emergency Locksmith Services
In times of security or access crisis during after hours or holidays, many locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services to make sure their clients are not left behind alone. They have all the necessary tools and equipment in their van to ensure swift resolution of the situation.
Locksmith Duties & Obligations
Here are some of the highlighted duties and obligations of locksmiths you can find on their job description:
- Market locking mechanism and products to create awareness about modern hardware among clients.
- Repair and replace the damaged door and window locks, hinges, and other components that ensure security.
- Produce a new key for a door after authorization and assist clients in gaining entry when they are locked out of their houses or automobiles.
- Devise and implement a comprehensive security environment for commercial and corporate clients according to their specifications.
- Alter combinations or key fobs to help clients gain access in case of misplacement of keys.
How To Become A Locksmith?
Becoming a locksmith can be a rewarding career. There is always a strong demand for professional locksmiths who are experts in installing, repairing, replacing and maintaining locks and other security devices.
If you are thinking about becoming one, here are the things to know:
1- Work Authorization
Before starting your training at a place of your choice, you need to be at least 18 years of age. If you are yet to come of age, it is best to gather information on your own until you are able to train actively.
2- Training
There are two routes to get insight into the world of locksmiths.
- You can enroll yourself in locksmith courses or training programs in vocational colleges, community colleges, or technical schools in your state.
- Another route to a professional locksmith career is by taking an apprenticeship at one of the experienced locksmiths and completing your prescribed hours.
Either way, you need to complete minimum training to be eligible for the license exam. So, it is best to learn the tricks of the trade while you are at it, so you can be sharp and resourceful in your license exam and then later in your practical work.
Locksmiths are one of the most primitive professionals around. Their outlook and ways of doing things have changed drastically, but they are still entrusted with offering hardware, or software, to secure precious items and property. The path to becoming a locksmith is straightforward if you are interested in becoming one.
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