Even with all the technology that surrounds an access control system, the incorrect selection of locks can create the biggest problem for any installer on site.
This is a common – and often costly – issue but one that can be avoided with careful consideration of the solutions on offer.
There are many reasons why choosing the wrong lock can cause problems – from inefficient locking, through to compromising the whole structure of the door.
The first thing the installer should consider when specifying locks for access control should be the style and make-up of the door which the locks will be attached to.
There are many different types of door around the UK, from the old wooden type, to aluminium, metal, uPVC and all-glass doors.
Additionally, single doors, double-doors, rebated doors, inward opening and outward opening doors all have locks which are specifically suitable to them, but generally these variations are ignored. This can prove very costly for the installer.
Another important factor in selecting your lock is Fire Exit routes – the correct locks must be fitted to ensure all fire regulations in terms of free access are maintained in the event of evacuation.
The three main locking mechanisms for access control fall under the category of electromagnetic locks, electrical releases and green locks, all of which have their own advantages and disadvantages, which can help the installer choose the right lock for the right application.
Electromagnetic locks
Electromagnetic locks are easy to install, satisfy fire regulations and are extremely reliable due to a lack of moving parts. The locks are also available in a range of internal and external models and have a variety of holding forces to suit different applications, making them extremely versatile.
However, as with any locking solution, there are also disadvantages to using electromagnetic locks, including their unattractive appearance and the fact that the locking mechanism is usually concentrated at the top of the door, increasing the risk of levering apart. Also worth considering is the height reduction that this type of lock can cause to a door, which could be a potential health and safety risk.
Electric releases
Competitive pricing and fail secure locking are key benefits of using an electric release. These lock the door in the centre, which is both convenient and provides added security when compared with the top-locking offered by electromagnetic locks. As the locks are not visible when a door is closed, electric releases also offer aesthetic advantages.
However, this method of locking is not particularly robust and often requires specialist fitting. The locks will also have a reduced life due to their moving parts (including springs and solenoids) and they will not operate under side load, which can violate fire regulations.
Green locks
The green lock, which will be available by the end of the year through ADI-Gardiner from CDVI (UK), combines benefits offered by the current solutions available but its economical power usage will be a key selling point. The lock is fail safe (to comply with fire regulations), it will operate under side load, and can be retrofitted to suit most lock cases. Similar to the electrical release, it locks centrally and is invisible once the door is closed. However, remember that this lock will often require specialist fitting.
Applications
All of the aforementioned locks are suitable for most applications. However, consideration has to be made to the environment they are to be used in. For example, in areas of high vandalism, it would be unwise to use electric releases, as these are generally weaker than other options and less robust. For high risk areas, all doors should be fitted with a deadbolt, as electronic locking of doors is for access control and is not intended as a complete security solution. This is quite important, as power failure can render fail-safe locks insecure. All of the locks are suitable for interior doors, but for buildings where aesthetics are important, magnetic locks are usually unsightly unless installed within a profiled housing, whereas electric releases and the green lock are completely hidden once doors are closed.
For external use, again consideration must be given to the environment – for security and aesthetics, the electromagnetic lock with a profiled housing is often most suitable.
