It often seems that decision makers in the security industry face a choice between mechanical and digital access control systems, with solutions such as mechanically-operated push button locks viewed as being inferior to their electronic counterparts. However, Craig Birch, Product Category Manager at UNION, discusses why the latest changes to BS 8607 means new, security-focused push button locks can complement digital systems.
Mechanically-operated push button locks are used in buildings to help manage access control at a site, as well as protect assets and people. Nevertheless, these products can sometimes be seen as the poor relation to digital access control, particularly those that are linked to a wireless network. And with a digital access control solution often seen as being more secure than a push button lock, there is a real risk that many are missing out on the many benefits that a mechanical system can offer.
The latest changes to BS 8607 – the standard governing mechanically-operated push button locks – have seen the arrival of grade 5. This is the newest and most stringent level for delivering assured security and access control from push button locks. But what does it offer that grade 4 – previously the highest grade for BS 8607 – does not?
Both grade 4 and grade 5 of BS 8607 stipulate that products meeting these standards must be suitable for ‘applications where security, abuse and usage levels are expected to be equivalent to BS 3621’, which relates to thief-resistant locks. Products for both grades 4 and 5 also undergo a General Vulnerability Assessment, using tools such as vice grips, cordless drills, picking tools, chisels and wedges.
The difference between the two grades, then, is that devices rated grade 4 can only achieve this standard with the help of an integral additional locking unit. So with a grade 4 product, users must lock and unlock the solution from the inside with a key, and then operate the push button lock from the outside to unlock the door.
In contrast, a push button lock that meets grade 5 standards provides a ‘one-stop’ security and access control solution; one that does not require a separate locking unit. With a grade 5 product, the latch and lock are integrated and tested together, without the need for an additional key. This means that, when it shuts, a grade 5 solution automatically locks. Then, should a user need to exit a room, it is simply a one handle operation to unlock the door.
While it is intended that both grade 4 and 5 devices offer the same resistance to attack and it is simply the way it is locked that is different, the fact that a user has to physically lock a door themselves with a grade 4 product means the technology is reliant on key holders to secure the premises themselves. With a grade 5 solution, security is assured as the door will automatically lock.
One of the key benefits to a grade 5 device is that, because they offer a far higher level of security, these products can be deployed in more demanding areas where networked digital solutions may not be suitable. For instance, doors that need securing in external perimeter boundaries are often located far from estates offices. This can mean monitoring and maintaining a digital device can be a challenge. In contrast, a grade 5 push button lock can deliver high levels of security, with minimal maintenance.
These products are also suitable where doorway abuse is likely. For staff that need to easily enter and exit areas, while ensuring members of the public stay on one side of the door, a grade 5 product offering keyless egress is an ideal solution. By integrating these easy-to-operate mechanical solutions with digital access control systems, it is possible to ensure site security while also meeting the challenge presented in areas open to the general public too.
Furthermore, some digital devices are also unsuitable for harsh environments, where they might be exposed to extreme temperatures, corrosive spray and airborne dust. These hazards could damage an electronic unit’s housing, potentially resulting in the device failing. In such situations, highly durable push button locks can offer invaluable levels of access control and security, while also being used in tandem with an existing digital system.
One important accreditation to look out for when selecting a mechanical push button lock is Secured By Design (SBD). Part of the Police Crime Prevention Initiatives, SBD plays an important role in the planning process for a wide range of building sectors to help stop crime. Security products that meet the high standards set by SBD can use its logo and are awarded the title ‘Police Preferred Specification’.
However, a product must be subjected to rigorous testing and be fully endorsed by an independent, third-party certification body accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service, before it is allowed to carry the SBD logo and the ‘Police Preferred Specification’ title. This is the only route to obtaining police accreditation for security-related products in the UK, and signals that a product meets the high standards set by the police initiative for improving the security of buildings and their immediate surroundings, while delivering the convenience of access control without the need for wiring. For those seeking a tried and trusted mechanical push button lock to use alongside a digital system, SBD is an accreditation to be mindful of.
Ultimately, it is no longer a question of mechanical versus digital – instead, the optimum solution for each access point can be selected, with both mechanical and digital working together, in collaboration.
UNION’s latest CodeGUARD 5 was the first mechanically-operated push button lock to meet the new grade 5 standards for BS 8607. The product is also accredited by SBD. Visit www.uniononline.co.uk/codeguard5.
