Is AS Certified Commercial Lock Better for Grade?

Do you know the importance of choosing the right commercial lock? It's crucial for ensuring both security and durability. In this post, we'll take a closer look at AS (Australian Standards) certification for commercial locks.

AS certified commercial locks offer unique advantages compared to other international standards in certain scenarios. We'll explore how AS certification's dual-level grading system and mandatory compliance requirements set it apart.

Discover the real-world applications of AS certification grades and how they cater to high-security and high-traffic environments. By the end of this article, you'll have a clearer understanding of when AS certified commercial locks are the better choice for your needs.

Understanding AS Certification for Commercial Locks

To grasp the significance of AS certified commercial locks, let's dive into the AS 4145.2-2008 standard.It employs a unique "dual-level" grading system that assesses locks based on two dimensions: Security (S3-S8) and Durability (D6-D8).

This approach sets it apart from single-dimension international standards like ANSI/BHMA Grade 1-3, which primarily focus on durability. By evaluating both security and durability independently, AS certification provides a more comprehensive assessment of a lock's performance.

The Pinnacle of AS Certification: S8/D8

The highest grade attainable under the AS standard is S8/D8. To achieve this elite status, a lock must pass rigorous testing:

● Withstand 500,000 cycles (5 times more than ANSI Grade 1)

● Demonstrate mandatory resistance against: Prying

○ Drilling

○ Impact

Locks that meet these stringent criteria are ideal for high-security and high-traffic environments such as:

● Government buildings

● Airports

● Banks

AS Certification's "Mandatory Compliance" and Geographical Advantages

When it comes to Australia and New Zealand, AS certification is more than just a mark of quality - it's a legal requirement. Commercial buildings like schools and hospitals must use AS 4145.2 certified locks to pass fire safety and security inspections.

This mandatory compliance ensures a high standard of security across these regions. It's worth noting that Toptek documents mention a "4-hour fire rating," which aligns with the stringent requirements of AS certification.

Material and Environmental Adaptability

Another area where AS certified locks shine is their material and environmental adaptability. The standards place a strong emphasis on using 304 stainless steel and conducting salt spray testing to assess corrosion resistance.

This focus on durability makes AS locks particularly well-suited for coastal and high-humidity regions like Australia. They offer better long-term stability compared to locks certified under other standards, such as ANSI.

Let's take a closer look at the Toptek K72CL classroom lock. Despite being certified under European standards, its design features a 304 stainless steel latch and a 1.5mm thick lock body.

These specifications align closely with the material requirements for AS D-grade locks. It demonstrates how even locks certified under different standards can incorporate elements that meet AS criteria, further highlighting the geographical advantages of AS certification.

Real-World Applications of AS Certification "Grades"

Now that we understand the technical aspects of AS certification, let's explore how these grades translate into real-world applications.

High-Security Scenarios

In high-security environments like bank vaults, AS S7 locks reign supreme. They offer unparalleled resistance against professional lockpicking tools, ensuring maximum protection for valuable assets.

On the other hand, ANSI Grade 1 locks prioritize "anti-misoperation." They focus on maintaining smooth operation even in extreme temperatures, making them suitable for environments with variable conditions.

High-Traffic Scenarios

When it comes to high-traffic areas, AS D8 locks are the go-to choice. These locks can withstand an impressive 500,000 cycles, making them ideal for office buildings that see over 500,000 visitors annually, such as those in the Sydney CBD.

Company Strength and Qualifications as the Foundation for Product Quality

When considering AS certified commercial locks, it's crucial to look at the company behind the product. TOPTEK HARDWARE boasts an impressive track record with over 30 years of production experience. Their team of 220 employees operates in a sprawling 15,000 square meter factory, enabling them to maintain a strong production capability.

Commitment to Quality, Safety, and Environment

TOPTEK HARDWARE's commitment to excellence is evident in their certifications. They hold:

● ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management)

● ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management)

● ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management)

These certifications demonstrate their dedication to product quality, employee safety, and environmental protection. They reflect the strict quality control measures in place at TOPTEK HARDWARE, giving customers peace of mind when choosing their products.

International Certification Expertise

In addition to their ISO certifications, TOPTEK HARDWARE is well-versed in various international standards. They have experience with:

● CE

● UL

● SKG

● UKCA

●  AS4145.2 - 2008

Their familiarity with AS4145.2 - 2008 certification is particularly noteworthy. It indicates their ability to meet the high standards set by Australian regulations. This expertise provides the foundation for producing top-quality AS certified commercial locks that can withstand the rigors of high-security and high-traffic environments.

By combining decades of experience, a strong production infrastructure, and a commitment to quality and safety, TOPTEK HARDWARE is well-positioned to deliver reliable AS certified commercial locks to their customers.

Product Features and Compatibility with AS Certification Requirements

TOPTEK HARDWARE's website showcases a range of commercial locks, many of which feature 304 stainless steel components like latches and lock bodies. This choice of material aligns perfectly with the requirements of AS certified commercial locks.

304 Stainless Steel: Durability and Corrosion Resistance

AS certification places a strong emphasis on material corrosion resistance. By utilizing 304 stainless steel, TOPTEK HARDWARE's locks meet these stringent durability and corrosion resistance standards.

The use of high-quality materials like 304 stainless steel helps improve lock lifespan and security across various environments. It ensures the locks can withstand the challenges of harsh conditions, maintaining their integrity and functionality over time.

UL Fire-Rated Locks and AS Safety Grade Classifications

In addition to their use of 304 stainless steel, TOPTEK HARDWARE also offers UL fire-rated locks for hospitals, schools, and other facilities where safety is paramount. This focus on safety performance is mirrored in AS certified commercial locks, which have their own safety grade classifications.

High-grade AS locks excel in various safety aspects, including fire resistance and anti-theft measures. The commonalities in key performance requirements between UL certified locks and AS certified locks demonstrate TOPTEK HARDWARE's commitment to safety.

By offering products that align with both UL and AS safety standards, TOPTEK HARDWARE showcases their dedication to providing locks that prioritize the well-being of their users. This pursuit of safety excellence is a testament to their compatibility with the rigorous demands of AS certification.

Application Scenario Demands and Advantages of AS Certification

TOPTEK HARDWARE's products find application in a wide range of scenarios, including airports, office buildings, and public places. Each of these environments presents unique challenges and demands for lock performance.

Airports: High Passenger Traffic and Security Requirements

Airports are characterized by high passenger traffic and extremely stringent security requirements. They need locks that can withstand constant use while maintaining the highest level of security.

Office Buildings and Public Places: Durability and Security Demands

Similarly, office buildings and public places experience frequent personnel flow. This puts high demands on lock durability and security. The locks must be able to handle regular use without compromising on safety.

Meeting Scenario Requirements with AS Certified Locks

AS certified commercial locks of different grades are designed to meet the specific requirements of these challenging scenarios. High-grade AS locks, in particular, offer superior security and durability features like high cycle counts.

By choosing high-grade AS certified locks, facilities can ensure long-term stable use even in demanding environments. These locks provide a level of performance that is unmatched by uncertified or low-grade certified alternatives.

The advantages of AS certification become clear when considering the real-world demands of airports, office buildings, and public places. TOPTEK HARDWARE's commitment to producing locks that meet these high standards positions them as a reliable choice for securing these critical environments.

Conclusion: Is AS Certification "Better"?

In conclusion, AS certification offers distinct advantages in specific scenarios. For the Australian and New Zealand markets, it is a mandatory requirement. High-grade AS locks excel in environments with dual high-security and high-durability needs, such as banks and airports.

Moreover, the strict material and environmental testing standards of AS certification make it ideal for coastal regions. However, there are exceptions where AS certification may not be necessary.