ANSI Lock Standards

Grading

• The ANSI and the BHMA created three grades for locks, numbered 1, 2 and 3, based on the quality, performance and features of the lock. The BHMA says grade 1 is the best.

Types

• The standards cover interior and exterior locks for homes and commercial buildings. This includes cabinet locks, electromagnetic locks and other hardware. Master key systems have their own standards, which BHMA recommends following as a way to reduce legal liability.

Content

• Standards deal with each lock type, covering the particular situations the lock might encounter. Mortise locks must deal with twisting and forced entry, so torque and the number of blows they can withstand form part of the mortise lock's standards. High security lock cylinders must meet pick-resistance and drill-resistance standards.