Choosing the Right Lock for Your Security Door
Selecting the correct lock for a security door depends on several factors: the required RC class, whether the door is on an evacuation route, fire rating requirements, and whether access control is needed. This guide helps you match lock types and models to your application.
View Our High Security Doors
Our doors can be configured with the lock that best suits your security and access control requirements.
Key Selection Criteria
RC Class (Burglar Resistance)
The lock must be part of a door assembly tested to the target RC class. RC2 doors typically use mechanical locks such as ROM 2. RC3 can use KALE 352 R or electromechanical options like ABLOY MP520, EL566, or EL567. RC4 and RC5 require multi-point locks such as MOTTURA Multi Point, MOTTURA Gorilla, ABLOY MP520, EL566/EL568, or ISEO MULTIBLINDO. See our compatibility table for details.
Evacuation Route
Doors on escape routes must allow single-action release from the inside. This is covered by EN 179 (lever/push pad for familiar users) or EN 1125 (horizontal panic bar for public areas). Locks such as MOTTURA Gorilla, ABLOY MP520, ABLOY EL566/EL568, and ISEO MULTIBLINDO support panic hardware. For more detail, see Panic and Emergency Exit Hardware.
Fire Rating
Fire-rated doors require locks that have been tested as part of a fire-resistant door assembly. Many of our mechanical and electromechanical locks are suitable for fire doors when used in the tested configuration. Always confirm with the specific door and lock combination.
Access Control
If you need card readers, biometrics, or central access management, choose an electromechanical or motorized lock (EN 14846). Split spindle versions (e.g. ABLOY EL566/EL568) allow electric control on the outside and free mechanical exit on the inside. Straight spindle (ABLOY EL567/EL569) controls both sides electrically. See Access Control for High Security Doors.
Fail-Locked vs Fail-Unlocked
Electromechanical and motorized locks can be configured as fail-locked (remains locked on power failure) or fail-unlocked (unlocks on power failure). Fail-locked is typical for security-critical applications; fail-unlocked is often required for fire escape doors to ensure evacuation. The choice depends on your risk assessment and local regulations.
Quick Reference by Door Type
- High security, no access control: ROM 2 (RC2), KALE 352 R (RC3), MOTTURA Multi Point (RC4/RC5)
- Fire escape with panic bar: MOTTURA Gorilla, ABLOY MP520, ABLOY EL566/EL568, ISEO MULTIBLINDO
- Access control, one-side controlled: ABLOY EL566/EL568 (split spindle)
- Access control, both sides: ABLOY EL567/EL569 (straight spindle)
- Alarm receiving centers (EN 50518): ISEO MULTIBLINDO