Safety class for locks

What is a Security Class?

A security class is a standardized measure that indicates how well a padlock resists burglary attempts. The classification is determined by independent testing organizations.

In Europe, the CEN standard (EN 12320) is used, which categorizes locks into six classes, with class 6 offering the highest level of protection. The higher the class, the better the padlock is protected against break-ins.

Security classes help consumers and businesses choose an appropriate lock and encourage manufacturers to meet high quality standards.

CEN (Central European Norm)

The CEN standard (EN 12320) determines the security class of padlocks based on resistance to burglary, durability, and strength. The standard divides padlocks into six classes to clarify the level of protection.

Below is an overview of the different classes and their characteristics:

Class 6 – Maximum Security: This class offers the highest level of protection and is designed to withstand the most advanced burglary attempts. Often used for highly valuable assets, industrial applications, or high-risk environments.

Class 5 – Extra High Security: Padlocks in class 5 provide almost the same level of protection as class 6 but are slightly less robust. Ideal for securing storage containers and shipping containers. These locks offer excellent resistance against sawing, drilling, and bolt cutters.

Class 4 – High Security: These padlocks offer a high level of protection and are often used for securing sheds, garages, gates, as well as storage containers and trucks. They resist most manual break-in methods and provide solid defense against common tools like bolt cutters and files.

Class 3 – Medium/High Security: Suitable for medium-risk applications such as bicycles, garden gates, shipping containers, gates, and vans. They strike a good balance between security and convenience, making them popular for daily use in moderately risky environments.

Class 2 – Standard Security: These padlocks provide basic protection and are intended for low-risk situations. Commonly used to lock suitcases and toolboxes.

Class 1 – Low Security: These locks offer minimal protection and are mainly used for light-duty applications such as school lockers. They provide a basic level of defense against casual tampering.

Exigence	Klasse 1	Klasse 2	Klasse 3	Klasse 4	Klasse 5	Klasse 6
Minimum number of key differs	300	1.000	2.500	5.000	10.000	20.000
Resistance to locking mechanism force	-	-	4 kN	5 kN	10 kN	15 kN
Resistance to locking mechanism torque	-	2,5 Nm	5 Nm	15 Nm	20 Nm	30 Nm
Shackle pulling resistance	3 kN	5 kN	15 kN	30 kN	70 kN	100 kN
Shackle twisting resistance	40 Nm	100 Nm	200 Nm	450 Nm	1.200 Nm	2.500 Nm
Shackle cutting resistance	6 kN	15 kN	25 kN	35 kN	70 kN	100 kN
Impact resistance at low temperatures	-	-	-20°C	-20°C	-40°C	-40°C
Shock resistance (impact in G-force)	-	-	1250 G	3050 G	6550 G	7150 G
Drop height test	-	-	800 mm	1.000 mm	1.400 mm	1.500 mm
Drill resistance of body and shackle	-	-	-	2 min	4 min	8 min
Saw resistance of body and shackle	-	-	-	2 min	4 min	8 min

Padlock Water Resistance: Understanding IP Ratings

In our extensive range, we also offer water- and dust-resistant padlocks that are certified with a specific IP rating. The IP value (Ingress Protection) of a padlock indicates how well it is protected against dust and water. This rating always consists of two digits: the first digit indicates the level of dust resistance, while the second digit reflects water protection.

Here are some key values:

IP65: Dust-tight and resistant to water jets.
IP66: Dust-tight and resistant to powerful water jets.
IP67: Dust-tight and resistant to temporary immersion in water.
IP68: Dust-tight and suitable for prolonged immersion.

When choosing a padlock for use in humid or wet environments, water resistance is crucial. This prevents rust, corrosion, and moisture damage. Looking for water- and dust-resistant padlocks? Feel free to contact us!