Locks work differently depending on their lock functions. Door locks and handles are available with many different locking functions designed for several different situations. Many functions are for specific commercial applications. That being said, there are five lock functions that you will find in most buildings; passage, privacy, entrance, classroom and storeroom. The experts at First Lock & Security Technologies have provided the following information on the different types of lock functions and their uses.
Passage Locks Door Hardware
A passage lock is used on interior doors that do not need to be locked. They have no keyhole and are often used on closet doors, pantries and hallways. Their primary function is to “latch” the door shut to prevent a door from opening once it has been firmly closed.
Privacy Door Locksets
Just as the name implies, a privacy lock is used when one needs privacy when in a room. It works by either pushing a button or twisting a button on the door’s interior handle to lock it. Privacy locks do not need a key to unlock them from the exterior but instead utilize a tool or probe to open the lock. In residential applications, you will find privacy locks on bathrooms and bedrooms. In retail settings, you will find privacy locks on dressing room doors. They are easily unlocked when someone needs to gain access in a hurry. Some privacy locks, such as those found in public restrooms, have visible “occupancy indicator” to show when they are vacant or occupied.
Entry Door Locks
Entry locks are true security locks. Typically locked by a a small thumb-turn or button in the inside handle, this type of lock is typical in most homes and is often coupled with a deadbolt. Some functions only allow entry with the key but do not render the door unlocked. Other functions will unlock the handle requiring you to turn the button on the inside to re-lock the door.
Classroom Function Locks
Classroom locks are controlled with a key on the door’s exterior, just like an entry lock. A key can be used to set the lock to stay locked or unlocked depending on the circumstances. Just as the name implies, classroom locks were initially designed for use in schools to prevent students from tampering with the locks since there is no button on the inside handle. Only the person in possession of the key can set the status of the lock. Classroom locks are often utilized in office corridors, where a key function is desirable, and a thumb turn is not. Other functions known as vestibule or classroom security function utilize a key cylinder on both sides of the door, giving the operator the ability to lock the door from the inside without exposing the students to a possible intruder. In some states, these types of locks are required by law for all classroom settings.
Storeroom Lockset
Storeroom locks are utilized when the outside lever needs to be kept locked and requires a key to open the door only. Storeroom locks are always locked from the outside, so no one can accidently leave it unlocked. Storeroom locks are most often used in storage rooms, electrical rooms, and mechanical rooms. Note: all of the lock functions listed in this article are always free to exit when inside, the inside handles are never locked!
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To learn more about residential and commercial locking mechanisms, contact the First Lock & Security Technologies experts today.
