Door Industry Journal - Spring 2020

112 THE door industry journal spring 2020 Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Fire & Security Residential Access: What to Consider When it comes to multi-occupancy residential properties, there is a duty of care that must be considered to protect tenants and property from unauthorised intruders. Here, David Saxby, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect discusses the factors to consider when installing locks and door hardware to residential properties. The main event The first point of entry for multi-residency properties will often have one main entrance door. Whilst many may consider a typical cylinder lock for this entrance, it can be troublesome for landlords to keep track of a vast number of keys, especially with the risk of loss, or an ex-tenant inadvertently not returning the key. This will incur costs to replace the locks on the communal door and providing every tenant with new keys, each time this happens. A code-operated latch combined with a door entry buzzer and speaker kit is a good solution for this problem. To withstand the UK’s ever-changing and unpredictable weather patterns, locksmiths should look to a robust, weatherproof marine-grade code latch such as the Borg BL2601 Marine grade latch, to avoid wear and tear and withstand any break-in attempt. Whilst of course, a code-operated latch and door entry kit can provide an excellent first line of defence, sometimes this is not enough. Should the communal door be left ajar, propped open for any reason, or a tenant believes they are holding the door for a welcome visitor, this allows unauthorised access to the building and when internal security becomes crucial. Protecting your post and privacy Typically for multi-occupied addresses, deliveries will often be left in a designated mail room or lockable post boxes. With the importance of data protection and privacy it is essential a high-quality postal solution is provided for storing tenants’ deliveries. For mail rooms, locks prevent unauthorised access and help to deter and resist a break in. Stainless steel, CE marked sashlock’s are ideal for such use. These heavy-duty locks will be able to withstand the demands of daily use and high traffic. One such product is the A-Spec Architectural Euro Profile Sashlock, which is simple to maintain as the forend is replaceable without having to remove the lock. Alternatively, an internal door code lock such as the Arrone ® Code Lock can be installed on the post room door. Using a code entry system, the code can be easily changed without the expense of replacing keys and keep the mail room safe from unauthorised access. For lockable post boxes, 5-Pin Cylinder locks are ideal. An economical alternative to heavy-duty cylinders used on front doors, the Euro Thumbturn 5-Pin Cylinder will provide ample security for tenant mailboxes. Additionally, it is important to specify products that contain anti-pick mushroom shaped pin technology to prevent tampering or potential lock-picks. Some manufacturers may also supply the product with multiple keys, lessening the stress and cost of replacing lost keys to building owners.