Let’s talk about standards for burglary resistance of door locks. It’s easy to notice that some locks are more expensive, while others are cheaper. Does this mean that a more expensive lock is better than a cheaper one? Life experience suggests that this is not always the case. We need specific technical data for comparison. Let’s figure out what to pay attention to. Fortunately, standards and classifications have already been developed to help us.
EN 1627 Standard
The EN 1627 standard is a European regulation that establishes requirements and testing methods for classifying the resistance of doors, windows, shutters, and their fittings to burglary. Its primary goal is to define the protection level of structures against various types of attacks, including forced entry and manipulation. EN 1627 applies to entry doors, windows, shutters, and grilles, as well as locking systems and protective components. It’s important to understand that this standard evaluates the burglary resistance of the entire structure, including the frame, leaf, and fittings.
EN 1627 is supplemented by other standards, such as:
EN 1628: Test method for resistance to static pressure.
EN 1629: Test method for resistance to dynamic pressure (impacts).
EN 1630: Test method for resistance to manual attacks with tools.
EN 1627 categorizes structures into six burglary resistance classes (RC - Resistance Class):
RC 1N: Minimal protection.
RC 2N and RC 2: Protection against unskilled intruders using simple tools (screwdrivers, pliers).
RC 3: Resistant to experienced intruders using crowbars and professional tools.
RC 4: Capable of withstanding attempts using hammers, axes, and electric tools.
RC 5: High protection against intruders using heavy electric equipment (e.g., drills).
RC 6: Maximum protection, including resistance to powerful professional tools.
Testing methods under EN 1627 are designed to evaluate the resistance of doors, windows, and shutters to various types of impacts. Structures are subjected to tests for static and dynamic loads, as well as impacts, to assess their ability to withstand physical pressure. Additionally, resistance to tool-based attacks, including attempts with screwdrivers, crowbars, hammers, and even power tools, is tested. For each protection level, a minimum time is defined during which the structure must remain impenetrable, allowing for an objective evaluation of its reliability.
Relation to EN 12209 and EN 1303 standards for burglary resistance of door locks
The EN 1627 standard is closely related to others that focus on specific door components:
EN 12209: Mechanical locks.
EN 1303: Cylinder mechanisms (part of the lock).
EN 1627 evaluates the entire door security system, including the door material, frame, fastening elements, and locking systems. Locks and cylinders, in this case, are part of the comprehensive testing. EN 12209 and EN 1303 focus exclusively on the characteristics of locks and cylinders themselves, such as their resistance to physical and tool-based attacks or manipulation (e.g., picking).
Lock Classification According to EN 12209
EN 12209 is the primary European standard regulating requirements for mechanical locks. It evaluates locks based on 11 characteristics, but the key ones for burglary resistance are:
Mechanical durability: The lock is tested for strength under various loads (forced entry, impacts, drilling).
Security level: Determines the lock's ability to resist picking, bumping, drilling, and other methods.
Durability level: The lock is tested for wear to determine the number of locking/unlocking cycles it can withstand without losing effectiveness.
EN 12209 Grades:
Grade 1-2: Minimal security. Suitable for interior doors or spaces with low security requirements.
Grade 3-4: Medium security. Used in apartments or homes with additional security measures (e.g., armored doors).
Grade 5-7: High security. Applied in high-security locations, such as offices and bank vaults.
Cylinder Classification According to EN 1303
This standard describes cylinder mechanisms and their resistance to burglary. Key parameters include:
Usability category: Indicates how often the lock can be used without breaking. Classes: 1 (low intensity) to 6 (high intensity).
Manipulation resistance: Evaluates resistance to picking, bumping, and drilling. Classes: 1 (basic protection) to 2 (maximum protection).
Resistance to physical force: Tests the cylinder body’s resistance to mechanical stress. Classes: 0 (no protection) to 2 (maximum protection).
Security grade: Assesses the cylinder's resistance to manipulation and intellectual attacks, such as bumping or picking, as well as the complexity of the key. Classes: 1 (low level) to 6 (maximum level).
Certification Centers and Their Labels
It might seem like there’s already plenty of information to make an informed decision, but there’s more to consider. European countries have their own certification centers that test products and assign quality labels to locks and cylinders:
SKG (Netherlands):
Marked with stars (⭐, ⭐⭐, ⭐⭐⭐).
Three stars indicate maximum resistance to tampering.
VdS (Germany):
Certificates are divided into classes A, B, C (with C being the highest protection).
Special attention is paid to burglary resistance and durability.
CEN (European Committee for Standardization):
Uses a classification system from Grade 1 to Grade 7 (similar to EN 12209).
A2P (France):
Provides certification for locks and doors.
Levels: A2P*, A2P**, A2P*** (three stars indicate the highest resistance).
Who Are A2P?
Since I live in France, let’s explore A2P certification. A2P is an accredited organization in France that certifies locks and other security devices. It was established under CNPP (Centre National de Prévention et de Protection) — the French Center for Prevention and Protection, an independent organization specializing in security.
The A2P standard serves as an additional, more specific certification in France. Unlike other general European standards such as EN 1303, A2P focuses not only on the mechanical and structural strength of a lock but also on its resistance to real-life burglary methods used by criminals.
To receive A2P certification:
1 star: The lock must resist for 5 minutes.
2 stars: The lock must resist for 10 minutes.
3 stars: The lock must resist for 15 minutes.
If a lock is certified only by A2P, it means it has passed tests for resistance to real burglary attempts but does not necessarily meet the requirements of EN 1303 for mechanical locks or cylinders. For example, a lock with electronic or hybrid mechanisms (e.g., smart technology) might not require EN 1303 certification but could still be A2P-certified if its burglary resistance has been tested.
When to Rely on EN 1303:
You need a lock for a home or apartment in Europe. EN 1303 is a pan-European standard that tests cylinder resistance to bumping, picking, and manipulation. It ensures that the cylinder meets modern mechanical safety requirements.
You want to understand technical specifications. The standard clearly defines durability (number of locking/unlocking cycles), wear resistance, and protection against drilling and intellectual burglary.
You need a universal lock. Locks certified to EN 1303 are often used internationally and are compatible with most door systems.
When to Rely on A2P
You live in France or a country where local certification matters. A2P is popular in France and is considered a quality guarantee, especially by local consumers. It clearly shows the lock’s resistance time to burglary.
You need protection from real threats. A2P focuses on practical attacks such as bumping, drilling, or picking. Locks marked A2P (1–3 stars) are guaranteed to be tested against these threats.
You want a simple selection process. The number of stars (1–3) makes it easy to understand a lock's reliability:
1 star: Suitable for apartments.
2 stars: Suitable for private homes.
3 stars: Suitable for high-risk premises.
It’s ideal if the lock meets both EN 1303 and A2P standards. This ensures not only high-quality construction but also verified protection against real threats. If you have to choose, in France, it’s better to prioritize A2P, as it provides a more detailed description of practical burglary resistance.
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