Arrow lock: Difference between revisions

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{{AFC comment|1=Do not use stackexchange as a source, since these are self-published sources, thus defined as unreliable on wikipedia. seems to be a notable topic. Maybe expand to include thefts surrounding arrow keys? Found some sources here: https://abc13.com/postal-workers-robbed-houston-usps-robberies-xzavier-shephard-mail-carrier/8014932/ https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article160733069.html https://www.postal-reporter.com/blog/san-fernando-valley-mail-thieves-carve-keys-out-of-scissors/ https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/mail-theft-surging-u-s-postal-service-inspectors-don-t-n1241179 [[User:Robertsky|– robertsky]] ([[User talk:Robertsky|talk]]) 17:57, 21 June 2021 (UTC)}}

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[[File:Arrow-lock.jpg|alt=A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled|thumb|A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled]]
[[File:Arrow-lock.jpg|alt=A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled|thumb|A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled]]
An arrow lock is a lock with standard dimensions used by the [[United States Postal Service]] for mail carrier access to access collection boxes, outdoor parcel lockers, cluster box units, and apartment mailbox panels. Arrow locks are unlocked through the use of a corresponding ''arrow key''. Arrow locks are also referred to as "Master Access Locks"<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=3-3 USPS Master Access Lock|url=https://about.usps.com/handbooks/po632/po632_03_003.htm|access-date=2021-06-21|website=about.usps.com}}</ref>
An arrow lock is a lock with standard dimensions used by the [[United States Postal Service]] for mail carrier access to access collection boxes, outdoor parcel lockers, cluster box units, and apartment mailbox panels. Arrow locks are unlocked through the use of a corresponding ''arrow key''. Arrow locks are also referred to as "Master Access Locks"<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=3-3 USPS Master Access Lock|url=https://about.usps.com/handbooks/po632/po632_03_003.htm|access-date=2021-06-21|website=about.usps.com}}</ref>
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== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Postal infrastructure]]
[[Category:United States Postal Service]]

Revision as of 10:52, 23 July 2021

A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled
A USPS Arrow Lock, uninstalled

An arrow lock is a lock with standard dimensions used by the United States Postal Service for mail carrier access to access collection boxes, outdoor parcel lockers, cluster box units, and apartment mailbox panels. Arrow locks are unlocked through the use of a corresponding arrow key. Arrow locks are also referred to as "Master Access Locks"[1]

Dimensions and Mounting

An arrow lock is metal and rectangular, measuring 2.005” x 3.566” x .620”,  with a keyhole in the center.[2]  When the user turns the key, a metal bar that normally protrudes from one side is moved through the lock to the other side.  This action may be used to release a door (as in the case of a collection or parcel box) or to press/release a switch (as in the case of an electronic door release).

Arrow locks have four mounting holes, which are evenly spaced at the corners, providing for secure attachment to four 10-32 threaded studs with metal nuts.  A ⅞” hole in the mounting surface is necessary to accommodate the keyhole, which protrudes above the surface of the lock.  USPS approved parcel lockers, cluster box units, and apartment mailbox panels will be manufactured with the hole and studs to accommodate an arrow lock.

Schematic for a USPS Arrow Lock
Schematic for a USPS Arrow Lock

Use in Key Keepers

In addition to actual mail delivery receptacles, arrow locks can also be found in key keepers, which are small lock boxes containing another key to a secured area where the mail receptacles are located. Similar to knox boxes, key keepers secured with an arrow lock allow postal carriers to access the lobby of unstaffed multifamily buildings to deliver mail.[3]

Private Use Lock Conversion

Conversion locks are available that match the mechanism and dimensions of USPS arrow locks, but are keyed for private use.[4]  

Process for Obtaining Arrow Locks

To obtain a new or replacement arrow lock, a property owner or manager must contact their local post office branch. The arrow lock will be installed by USPS personnel.[1]

Arrow Key Accountability

Arrow keys are meticulously accounted for, and postal workers must check them out and return them daily. When checked out, the arrow key is connected to the postal worker's uniform with a chain to make it harder to misplace.

A United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General audit in 2020 found the controls to be ineffective. It stated that the number of arrow keys in circulation is unknown and keys are not adequately reported lost or stolen.[5]

Illegal Use of Arrow Keys

Lost or stolen arrow keys have been used by criminals to gain entry to apartment buildings and steal mail, often to commit identity theft.[6] Some criminals also would recreate the arrow keys to gain access.[7][8]

References

  1. ^ a b "3-3 USPS Master Access Lock". about.usps.com. Retrieved 2021-06-21.
  2. ^ "SPUSPS-STD-4C001". about.usps.com. Retrieved 2021-06-21.
  3. ^ https://about.usps.com/what-we-are-doing/current-initiatives/delivery-growth-management/section-632.pdf page 2
  4. ^ "N1026342 - Private Use Lock Conversion for the Arrow Lock". www.mailproducts.com. Retrieved 2021-06-21.
  5. ^ https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/document-library-files/2020/19-033-R20.pdf
  6. ^ "Stolen USPS Master Keys Pose Continued Threat to Chicago Apartment, Condo Owners". NBC Chicago. Retrieved 2021-06-21.
  7. ^ Stanton, Sam (July 11, 2017). "They used fake mailbox keys to steal credit cards and mail, Postal Service says". The Sacramento Bee.
  8. ^ "San Fernando Valley mail thieves carve keys out of scissors". KABC-TV. July 28, 2017.