BEST PRACTICE IN SPECIFYING THIEF RESISTANT LOCKS

Article first published 12/12/2008

Vital guidance from the DHF

A best practice guide to specifying thief resistant lock assemblies has been published by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF), which represents manufacturers and installers of industrial doors, locks and building hardware.  
 
The new guide coincides with the launch of the new BS 10621: 2007, the standard covering thief resistant dual mode lock assemblies. This was introduced in recognition of certain methods of attacking lock cylinders which were not specifically covered in the European standards. The guide also provides guidance on the existing standards BS 3621 and BS 8621 which cover key egress and keyless egress of lock assemblies.  
 
The DHF best practice guide has been produced in association with the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers and the Master Locksmiths Association. It addresses the major issues that should be considered when specifying, ordering or using the various types of lock assemblies. It describes the main functions of the products and lists the minimum requirements for product identification marking on the locks.  
 
The close relationship of the three standards to BS EN 12209: 2003 is acknowledged in the DHF best practice guide. In particular, it notes that any lock must now exceed a minimum level of performance in all performance-related categories laid out in BS EN 12209: 2003. These categories include durability, latch load, door mass and closing force, suitability for use on fire and smoke doors, safety, corrosion resistance, security and drill resistance.  
 
By using the guide, a lock specifier can identify the type of door fitting - mortise or rim; the door movement - hinged or sliding; the type of lock mechanism - cylinder or lever; the mode of locking - manual or automatic; and the type of spindle operation. He will then be able to ensure the lock assembly chosen is suitable to meet all these parameters.  
 
The DHF best practice guide to thief resistant lock assemblies can be downloaded from the DHF website: www.dhfonline.org.uk  
 

Article ID No.: 173