21 NCAC 29 .0503. PROTECTION OF THE PUBLIC INTEREST

(a)  Locksmiths shall refrain from allowing their specialized skills, knowledge, or access to tools and information to be used in any manner that puts the safety and security of the public at risk.

(b)  If a locksmith suspects wrongful intent or misrepresentation by a potential client, the locksmith shall refuse service and shall notify the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction.

(c)  Locksmiths shall not knowingly infringe a restricted key system.

(d)  Locksmiths shall record the identity of the customer for all service calls in which the locksmith opens a vehicle, building, room or secured container, or originates a key or in any other fashion provides the customer with access to any such property.

(e)  Locksmiths shall endeavor to install all locking devices in compliance with all relevant codes, such as Uniform Building Code, National Fire Protection Association, and Americans with Disabilities Act and any local codes or ordinances which regulate architectural hardware.  Locksmiths shall not install a locking device which produces a threat to life safety.  If such a (pre-existing) condition is encountered, the locksmith shall inform the client and recommend appropriate remedial action.

(f)  Locksmiths shall not become a party to disputes of ownership or authority. When an authorization dispute is deemed likely to arise, the locksmith shall advise the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction and request the presence of a uniformed officer.  The locksmith shall refuse to provide service when there is an unresolved dispute of ownership or authority.  Only instructions from a uniformed law enforcement officer or a court order shall be accepted as resolution of any such dispute.

(g)  Locksmiths shall not knowingly interfere with the maintenance of a master key system.  When master keyed cylinders are encountered, the key presented without its corresponding master key shall be presumed to be a subordinate key until otherwise determined.  An attempt must be made to determine the holder of the master key and seek authorization for cylinder changes or key origination before such service is performed.

(h)  Locksmiths shall keep key bitting arrays, file keys and all client information confidential.  Locksmiths shall not release any information or security device, such as a master key or safe combination, to any person without verifying that the recipient is entitled to receive it.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 74F-6;

Temporary Adoption Eff. August 13, 2002;

Eff. August 1, 2004;

Amended Eff. April 1, 2012.