Padlock Ratings

Ratings explained, in brief.

Understanding padlock ratings starts with two numbers, CEN ratings and the 7 digit British Standard.

CEN ratings

These are standards created in Europe, and range from 1 to 6. The higher the number, the more robust, and therefore secure, the padlock.

It’s important to understand that not all manufacturers have their products tested independently, but where CEN tests are applied they look into the resistance of the lock and its shackle (the curved piece of metal that does the actual locking) to twisting, drilling, pulling, and cutting. They also examine the way the lock works at temperatures as low as minus 40 Centigrade. A lock must pass all of the tests to earn a particular rating.

For protecting high ticket items, we suggest a Grade 5 lock, and that you should avoid any with ratings of only 1 or 2. The lower rated padlocks tend to be for garden sheds, or similar, where the equipment contained within is fairly standard or old.

British Standard ratings

The second number to look out for is BS EN12320: 2012. That’s the British Standard covering building hardware, padlocks and padlock fittings. This standard uses a seven-number classification which you’ll find on the lock or its packaging. The last two digits are the ones to help with padlock security ratings. The penultimate one is about corrosion resistance.

To protect a shed or outbuilding, pick one with a ‘3’. That means it’s for use outdoors. The last digit is the security rating; the greater the number the greater the security offered.

Sold Secure Ratings

Sold Secure are a recognised testing mark, with status either given, Gold, Silver and Bronze, with Gold being the maximum and equivalent to a CEN rating of 6.

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