| Depository
safes allow deposits to be made by anyone, but the deposits
can only be removed by persons with authorized access to
the safe. They are also sometimes referred to as drop safes.
Depository safes are ideal for businesses that handle large
amounts of cash, jewelry or other small valuables. They
are also useful for taking payments or non-refundable deposits
in the form of checks, money orders, or cash. Because of
the opening used to make the deposits, depository safes
are not as secure as other safes. They are best used for
temporary storage - deposits should be removed periodically
and placed in more secure storage. You might, for example,
deposit cash into the depository safe throughout the day,
but move the cash to a secure burglary-proof safe at night.
Another consideration is that, because of the opening to
the outside, depository safes are not fireproof.
There are 3 basic types of depository safes. They differ
in the way they accept deposits. The first type has a simple
slot on the front or top of the safe where deposits are
inserted. This type uses a baffle on the inside to prevent
"fishing" the contents of the safe back out through
the opening. The second type uses a hinged hopper that opens
from the front, much like the corner mailbox or the night
deposit at the bank. This type also uses a baffle to prevent
"fishing". The third type of depository safe,
which is the most secure, uses a rotary hopper. This rotary
hopper, mounted on top of the safe, must be rotated 180
degrees for the contents to be deposited in the safe.
There are a few other features to consider when choosing
depository safes. One is a dual-custody key system. This
type of system requires the use of two keys to remove the
deposits, a "supervisor" key and a "guard"
key, in much the same way as a safe-deposit box at the bank.
Another consideration is the added convenience of an electronic
keypad locking mechanism. The contents of the safe can be
accessed by entering the combination on an electronic PIN
pad, much like using an ATM or debit card machine. These
electronic locks are also available with an audit feature,
which stores information about when the safe was accessed
and by whom. This information can be viewed on a status
panel or, on some models can be uploaded to a personal computer.
Depository
safes are also available with a double-door arrangement.
This type is divided into two sections, with the top half
for deposits, and the bottom half providing more secure
storage because there is no opening for deposits. Depository
safes are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes and
interior arrangements. Some are available with convenient
storage for cash drawers - these are ideal in a retail setting.
As you can see, depository safes provide convenient, temporary
storage for cash, jewelry, or other valuables. When choosing
a depository safe, be sure to consider the type of depository
opening, the type of locking mechanism, and whether or not
you could benefit from a dual-door model. Keeping all of
these factors in mind will help in choosing the depository
safe that is right for you.
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