All You Need to Know About Professional Locksmith Certifications How to Find a Certified Professional Locksmith – Brentwood According to the US-‐based Occupational Information Network, the demand for locksmiths will rise by 7 to 13 percent from 2009 through 2019. Although certifications are not required to practice in the field, professional locksmiths often have the option to take up voluntary certification through the Master Locksmiths Association. Having professional locksmith certification can double the employment opportunities and earning potential of a locksmith. Examinations Most types of certifications and memberships offered through the Master Locksmiths Association, or MLA, require locksmiths to pass the BLI Examination – a rigorous test of both locksmithing knowledge and practical skill. People new to the industry may also take up a General Locksmithing Course, which covers Basic Locksmith Tools, Basic of Master Keying, Blank Identification & the basic of key cutting to Pattern, Brief History of safes & locks, Door & Frame Construction, Health & Safety, and many more topics needed by prospective locksmiths to persevere in the trade. Test items are based on these basic skills which can be both given in writing and in hands-‐on demonstration. The Master Locksmiths Association features three primary levels of locksmith membership, from Student Member to Advanced Student Member of the BLI and then to become Members of the Master Locksmiths Association. Student memberships are for persons sixteen and over who are studying for the MLA’s Entry Examination. Advanced Student Category is for those who have served at least twelve months in the locksmith trade and intend to study for the British
Locksmiths Institute Examination. A person can only hold an Advance Student Status for four full calendar years, during which time that person must pass the BLI examination. Successful takers of the BLI examination are awarded personal memberships to the MLA. Personal members of the MLA have the option to pursue the Association’s highest level -‐ Fellow of the British Locksmiths Institute. Training The Master Locksmiths Association offers training courses that can help locksmiths get ready for certification. Classroom-‐based courses are offered at different locations for prospective locksmiths and professionals alike. Classes are often given at association-‐affiliated facilities, as well as privately owned locations throughout London. Additionally, online courses can be taken up by any professional locksmith. Locksmith Brentwood has online courses given through the MLA, which offers instructional manuals and videos from the group. Things to Consider Since one of the most important principles of the MLA is to maintain and ensure skill and integrity within the trade, it has reinforced its commitment to members by launching a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program. Locksmiths must recertify or renew their sector memberships over a rolling three year period through gaining 18 points – which can be obtained uniformly over three years or accumulated at alternating rates as needed for the professional locksmith. Brentwood is a frequent venue for activities including national and regional training courses, distance learning, exhibitions and manufacturer seminars, needed for gaining points. Necessary fees must be paid by the locksmith. Locksmith Hornchurch and the rest of London may have varying fees depending on the type of additional certification pursued in the field from the MLA. To gain additional credentials, a written examination must also be passed by a locksmith. Brentwood, for instance, have locksmiths that have taken up courses, such as on Health & Safety, Marketing, and Website effectiveness.