Choosing the
right lock

Whatever your locking needs, we'll help you find and implement the optimum solution - either from our extensive product ranges or a tailor-made solution designed and manufactured by our team of locking experts. 

When it comes to choosing a locking system there are several factors to consider, to ensure the product you choose meets your needs. 

What level of security do you need? 

A high-quality locking system acts as a strong deterrent. So, when it comes to choosing the right level of security and getting the best value it's important to understand the threats, environmental and logistical factors associated with your application. At Camlock Systems we'll talk to you about your individual circumstances to assess the risks threatening your assets. By listening to your needs we ensure you always get the level of security that is appropriate for your application.

Understanding what the lock is protecting and its perceived value, as well as considering the implications of any loss or damage is essential. The location of the unit is also important:

• Is the site supervised or unmanned? 
• Hidden or in public view?
• In an area with a history of vandalism? 

When it comes to key management, consider how many people need access to keys, how often the lock will be used and whether the lock is standalone or part of a suite. Determining all of these factors is just part of the way we will help you find the optimum product for your needs.

Type of enclosure and space available

The type of lock required is dependent on:

• The type of closure (hinged door, sliding door, lid, etc)
• The space available, and;
• The loads expected to be imposed on it.

In industrial applications, the most commonly used are Cam Locks where the key rotates a Cam or Pawl, to engage behind a keep or door frame, or T-Handle assemblies for securing larger, heavier doors perhaps involving air-tight seals or multi-point locking. 

'Screw' or stud type handles save space because they provide a very tight and secure fit and do not require space for the swing of a cam. Other options include switchlocks, pushlocks, padlocks, and specially designed products for certain types of application. Key rotation and withdrawal are also a consideration here, particularly when dealing with cam locks. Many have the option of 90°or 180° rotation, left or right, and a choice of whether or not the key may be removed in its open position. 

environmental factors

Considering the environment your lock will be placed in is an important factor when choosing a locking system. Your lock needs to offer you the optimum performance in terms of longevity and durability, so we can advise you which products are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

At Camlock Systems we provide a wide range of products, which includes hard-wearing, high-performing, weather-resistant locking systems and can talk to you about the materials most suited to your locking needs. 

do you need to meet specific security standards or industry accreditations?

When a product undergoes attack testing in order to achieve accreditation to a certain standard and you need a specific level of security, we can help you find a smarter solution. With over 100 years of locking experience, we offer a unique insight into locking systems. We've learnt that how a lock is fitted can be of as much help in preventing forced entry as the inherent strength of the lock itself.

We can advise you about the correct installation methods that will reinforce the lock's integral strength.
We can also supply additional accessories such as protective collars, reinforcement sleeves and backing nuts to substantially increase the operational strength of the lock.

key configuration

If you are ordering a series of mechanical locks there are four different options when it come to choosing a suite of keys: 

Keyed alike - A set or 'suite' of these locks is available with a single key combination. A keyed alike (or 'keyed to pass') suite offers the convenience of any key within the set operating any or all of the locks.

Keyed to differ - A set or 'suite' of these locks are available, built to different key combinations, each of which is operated by its own key. Also know as 'keyed different'.

Master keyed - commonly used in hotels, where one 'master' key can open all the locks in a suite, which are themselves made to different key combinations. 

Changeable - Changeable combination locking systems, also known as 'Camatic', Multi-code, U-Change or Varicode locks. A lock design offering several independent and interchangeable key combinations and two types of key, an 'Operating' type to open the lock and a 'Change' key for reprogramming. 

key management

The largest threat to your security isn't always a destructive attack or a skilled lock-picker - it's a key that is no longer under your control. 
Protecting your assets from all of these risks is not only possible, but with a partner like Camlock Systems, it's easy.

Consult with us to design a system with the right features to keep your keys protected and your locks closed to unauthorised access. Our Online Key Service enables you to register your keys and ensures you can order additional and replacement keys, with access only granted to authorised personnel. 

Choosing a lock doesn't have to be complicated - so for all your locking questions, please talk to your local locking expert at Camlock Systems.