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A depository
safe, also known as a drop safe, allows deposits
by anyone through a locked door, but only authorized persons
can retrieve deposits. Depending on the type of depository
safe, the deposit is made through a slot, a hinged
hopper, or a rotary hopper.
The slot type of depository
safe has the slot on the front or top of the
safe. Inside the safe, there is a baffle attached to the
slot to keep someone from "fishing" the contents
back out. A depository
safe with a hinged hopper operates much like
a corner mailbox or the night deposit at the bank. There
is a hinged drawer that swings out to collect the deposit.
This type has an "anti-fishing" baffle attached
to the hopper as well. The third type of depository
safe, the rotary hopper, has a hopper mounted
on top, which must rotate 180 degrees in order to make the
deposit - this arrangement provides the highest amount of
protection against someone "fishing" the contents
back out of the safe.
A depository
safe is ideal for businesses that have large
amounts of incoming cash, jewelry, or other types of valuables.
They are also useful for businesses that need to collect
non-refundable deposits such as checks or envelopes. A depository
safe, due to its' design, is best for temporary
storage - the presence of the slot or hopper makes them
easier for a determined person to break into. So when using
a depository
safe it is recommended that the contents be removed
periodically to a more secure type of safe. For example
you might use the depository
safe to keep incoming cash during the day, but
move the cash to a burglary-rated safe at night.
There are a number of features available when choosing
a depository
safe. One common feature is a dual-custody key
system - this requires 2 keys, a "supervisor"
and a "guard" key, to retrieve deposits. Some
models can also be upgraded to include an electronic keypad
lock, rather than the traditional mechanical key or combination
lock. An electronic keypad is much more convenient than
a mechanical combination lock. Audit locks with an electronic
keypad are also available. An audit lock tracks the dates
and times that the safe has been accessed. This information
can be retrieved on the visual display or on some models
can be uploaded to a personal computer.
For the best of both convenience and security, choose a
depository
safe with double doors. The upper door provides
access to the contents of the depository, while the lower
door provides a more secure storage location with no way
in from the outside. Size is another factor in choosing
a depository
safe. The larger sizes often have storage designed
for cash drawers as well as depository storage. You would
also want to keep in mind the size of the object(s) to be
deposited in the safe, and make sure that the opening is
large enough.
If your business handles large amounts of cash, jewelry
or other valuable, a depository
safe could be just the solution to your security
needs.
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