Locks
Generally, mortise or sash type locks (which are embedded within the door) offer more security than rim-type locks (that are attached to the surface of the door). Five-lever rather than two- or three- lever locks are recommended since they have over 1,000 key options, making it far less likely that a duplicate key can be used.
Fitted locks used to secure doors, gates and shutters should conform to British Standard BS 3621.
Padlocks can be open shackle or close shackle. The word "open" in relation to an open shackle padlock refers to the fact that there is a substantial gap between the centre of the shackle and the body of the padlock. It is therefore possible to attack the shackle with a crowbar or pair of bolt croppers. The space between the shackle and padlock body on a close shackle padlock is much smaller, making it difficult to attack.
When securing doors or pairs of doors (double leaf), a padlock may be used in conjunction with a locking bar or pad bar. These can be horizontal or vertical and should be securely bolted to wooden doors or alternatively welded to metal doors.
Padlocks used to secure such fittings should conform to BS EN 12320 or equivalent. Padlocks with concealed shackles or raised 'shoulders' are recommended since they offer greater resistance to attack.
For added security, padlocks can be 'shrouded' to prevent attack using leverage or cutting tools.
It is important that key control is exercised so that keys can always be accounted for and they should be stored securely when not in use. Do not be tempted to leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place – an offender can quickly find and use keys 'hidden' in this way. It is much better to leave a spare set of keys with a neighbouring farmer – you could offer to do the same for them.
For more advice on securing properties, see "A Guide to Home Security". Further advice on locks can be found at "Your Home Security: Locks".
