FEATURE PADLOCKS
Padlocks –
all you need to know
This, in a nutshell is what you need to consider when a consumer asks for help when choosing the correct padlock for lockups or security requirements.
Whatever the reason for purchasing a
padlock. Some manufacturers give an
Discus type padlocks – have no angular
padlock, applying these principles will guide
indication of their padlock security rating. Use
corners and the shackle is well protected.
your customer through the myriad of different
this rating scale with caution, as the scale is
These are often used with cycle chains,
padlocks and marketing jargon.
subjective and could be misleading. When in
security cables and securing doors on
doubt, choose a quality brand. It is true that
sheds and garages. These locks offer best
FIRSTLY, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
you get what you pay for. Cheap, high-quality
value for money.
DECIDE WHAT YOU ARE PROTECTING
padlocks simply don’t exist.
• You should use the highest quality lock you can afford to secure valuable objects
Shutter style padlock or what is commonly DESIGN AND COMPONENTS OF A
known as ‘insurance’ padlocks — have
PADLOCK TO CONSIDER
a rectangular shape and the securing pin
WHAT SIZE PADLOCK BODY IS CORRECT
moves between two pillars of the lock. These
The body size will be determined by what
are popular with roller shutters on shop fronts
padlock, when the hasp or chain it is
you are using it for. A huge padlock on a
as well as security chains.
used with is of low quality.
suitcase is inappropriate, as is a small padlock
• Consider the complete system you need to use • It’s of little use having a high-quality
on a garden gate. Your logic will guide you
Conventional padlocks – have a body which
UNDERSTANDING THE PADLOCK RATING
correctly. Also remember that size alone is a
houses the locking mechanism, and the
It is important for security and insurance
poor indication of the strength of the padlock.
shackle is attached to the body. These are
purposes the padlock you choose should
Large, cheap padlocks will not offer the
very common padlocks, and their application
comply with an independent rating. In South
correct level of security required.
possibilities are numerous, varying from
Africa there is a SANS specification for
high security areas to low security situations,
padlocks. When looking for high security
WHICH BODY DESIGN IS CORRECT?
depending on their size and type of shackle.
padlocks and the product complies with
Padlocks are available in different design
• Open type shackles are where the shackle
the rating, you are assured that it is a quality
configurations, each with their own advantages.
8 | DIY & INDUSTRIAL TRADE NEWS MARCH 2022
is exposed and has no protection
