Ensuring Quality with an Affordable Locksmith

Evaluating Locksmith Credentials and Certifications

Finding a good locksmith without breaking the bank can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You want someone whos skilled, reliable, and wont charge you an arm and a leg. A crucial part of that search involves checking their credentials and certifications – its your best defense against scams and shoddy work. Dont just take their word for it; a little investigation can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the line.


First, ask about licensing. A legitimate locksmith should be licensed in your state or locality. This licensing often involves background checks and demonstrates a basic level of competency. Dont be afraid to ask for their license number and verify it with the relevant authority. A locksmith who hesitates or refuses to provide this information is a major red flag.


Beyond licensing, look for professional certifications. Organizations like the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) offer various certifications that indicate specialized training and expertise. These certifications can range from general locksmithing to more specific areas like automotive or security systems. While not all good locksmiths will have these certifications, they do offer an extra layer of assurance. Think of it like choosing a mechanic certified by ASE – it gives you peace of mind.


Also, consider checking online reviews and ratings. Websites like Yelp and Google My Business can offer valuable insights into other customers experiences. Look for consistent positive feedback regarding their professionalism, quality of work, and pricing. Be wary of locksmiths with overwhelmingly negative reviews or those who lack an online presence altogether.


Finally, dont underestimate the power of asking for references. A reputable locksmith should be happy to provide contact information for previous clients. A quick call to a few references can give you a firsthand account of their reliability and workmanship.


Evaluating a locksmiths credentials and certifications is a vital step in finding a quality, affordable service. Its a small investment of time that can protect you from unqualified individuals and ensure you get the best value for your money. Dont skip this crucial step – your security and peace of mind are worth it.

Evaluating Locksmith Credentials and Certifications

Comparing Quotes and Avoiding Hidden Fees

Finding a good locksmith without breaking the bank can feel like picking a lock in the dark. You want someone reliable, skilled, and – crucially – affordable. A big part of ensuring you get quality service at a fair price involves comparing quotes and watching out for hidden fees. Dont just jump at the first number you hear.


Getting multiple quotes is your first line of defense. Call at least three different locksmiths and explain your situation clearly. Be specific about what you need – is it a simple lockout, a lock change, or something more complex? This helps ensure everyone is bidding on the same job. A surprisingly low quote might be a red flag; it could mean theyre cutting corners or planning to tack on extra charges later.


Speaking of extra charges, be sure to ask about everything. Dont be afraid to sound like youre grilling them – its your money! Ask about service call fees, mileage charges, after-hours fees, and any other potential costs. A reputable locksmith will be upfront about their pricing structure. If they seem evasive or hesitant to give you a clear answer, thats a bad sign.


Also, pay attention to how the locksmith communicates. Do they listen carefully to your needs? Do they explain things clearly and answer your questions patiently? A good locksmith will take the time to understand your situation and offer the best solution, not just the most expensive one.


Finally, dont underestimate the power of online reviews. See what other customers have to say about their experiences. Look for patterns – are there multiple complaints about hidden fees or poor service? Positive reviews can give you confidence that youre choosing a reliable and affordable locksmith.


By comparing quotes, asking the right questions, and doing your research, you can find a quality locksmith who wont leave you feeling locked out of your own budget.

Importance of Insurance and Bonding for Locksmiths

Finding a good locksmith without breaking the bank can feel like picking a lock yourself – tricky and potentially painful if you choose the wrong tool. Ensuring quality while keeping costs down means looking beyond just the price tag. A crucial factor to consider is whether the locksmith has insurance and bonding. These arent just fancy buzzwords; they offer vital protection for you, the customer.


Insurance protects you from financial liability if something goes wrong during a job. Imagine a locksmith accidentally damages your door frame while installing a new lock. If theyre insured, their policy covers the repair costs, saving you from an unexpected bill. Similarly, insurance can cover situations like accidental key scratches on your car or damage to internal wiring during a complex lock installation. It provides a safety net, ensuring you wont be left footing the bill for unforeseen mishaps.


Bonding adds another layer of security. A bond is a type of guarantee that protects you against dishonest or fraudulent activity. For example, if a locksmith were to steal something from your home or overcharge you significantly, the bond would provide compensation for your losses. This is particularly important since locksmiths often have access to sensitive areas of your property. A bonded locksmith provides peace of mind, knowing youre protected from potential unethical behavior.


Checking for insurance and bonding demonstrates a locksmiths professionalism and commitment to their customers. It signals they are taking their business seriously and are prepared to take responsibility for their actions. While it might be tempting to choose the absolute cheapest option, remember that a slightly higher price from an insured and bonded locksmith can save you significant money and stress in the long run. So, when searching for an affordable locksmith, dont forget to ask about their insurance and bonding – it's a small step that can make a big difference in protecting your property and your wallet.

Importance of Insurance and Bonding for Locksmiths

Red Flags to Watch Out For When Hiring a Locksmith

Finding a good locksmith can feel like navigating a minefield. Youre often stressed, maybe locked out in the cold, and vulnerable to exploitation. While finding an affordable locksmith is important, ensuring quality service shouldnt be sacrificed. So, how do you find a reliable, affordable locksmith without getting scammed? One of the best strategies is knowing the red flags to watch out for.


A big red flag is incredibly low prices. If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. These "deals" often come with hidden fees that inflate the final bill far beyond the initial estimate. The locksmith might claim they need to drill your lock, when a simple pick would suffice, just to jack up the price. Be wary of quotes given over the phone without an on-site assessment; a reputable locksmith will want to see the lock before giving a firm price.


Another warning sign is a locksmith who shows up in an unmarked vehicle or one with a generic magnetic sign. Established locksmiths usually have clearly marked company vehicles. This lack of branding can indicate a lack of professionalism or even suggest theyre operating under the table. Always ask for identification and verify their business address. A legitimate locksmith will be happy to provide this information.


High-pressure sales tactics are another red flag. A good locksmith will explain your options clearly and allow you to make an informed decision without pushing you towards the most expensive solution. Beware of locksmiths who insist on drilling or replacing your lock without exploring less invasive options first.


Finally, be wary of locksmiths who answer the phone with a generic "locksmith services" rather than a specific company name. This can be a sign of a call center dispatching unqualified individuals. A reputable locksmith will answer with their business name, giving you confidence that youre dealing with a legitimate operation.


Finding an affordable locksmith doesnt mean settling for subpar service. By being aware of these red flags, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure youre hiring a qualified professional who will provide reliable, quality service at a fair price. Doing a little research beforehand can save you a lot of headache and money in the long run.

An illustration of a German locksmith, 1451.

Locksmithing is the work of creating and bypassing locks. Locksmithing is a traditional trade and in many countries requires completion of an apprenticeship. The level of formal education legally required varies by country, ranging from no formal education to a training certificate awarded by an employer, or a full diploma from an engineering college, along with time spent as an apprentice.

Terminology

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A lock is a mechanism that secures buildings, rooms, cabinets, objects, or other storage facilities. A "smith" is a metalworker who shapes metal pieces, often using a forge or mould, into useful objects or to be part of a more complex structure. Thus locksmithing, as its name implies, is the assembly and designing of locks and their respective keys by hand. Most locksmiths use both automatic and manual cutting tools to mold keys, with many of these tools being powered by batteries or mains electricity.

Work

[edit]

Locks have been constructed for over 2500 years, initially out of wood and later out of metal.[1] Historically, locksmiths would make the entire lock, working for hours hand cutting screws and doing much file-work. Lock designs became significantly more complicated in the 18th century, and locksmiths often specialized in repairing or designing locks.

Although replacing lost keys for automobiles and homes, as well as rekeying locks for security purposes, remains an important part of locksmithing, a 1976 US Government publication noted that modern locksmiths are primarily involved in installing high-quality lock-sets and managing keying and key control systems.

Locksmith specialisations

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Most locksmiths also provide electronic lock services, such as programming smart keys for transponder-equipped vehicles and implementing access control systems to protect individuals and assets for large institutions.[2] Many also specialise in other areas such as:

  • Auto Locksmithing
  • Safes

Regulation by country

[edit]

Australia

[edit]

In Australia, prospective locksmiths are required to take a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) course in locksmithing, completion of which leads to issuance of a Level 3 Australian Qualifications Framework certificate, and complete an apprenticeship. They must also pass a criminal records check certifying that they are not currently wanted by the police. Apprenticeships can last one to four years. Course requirements are variable: there is a minimal requirements version that requires fewer total training units, and a fuller version that teaches more advanced skills, but takes more time to complete. Apprenticeship and course availability vary by state or territory.[3]

Ireland

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In Ireland, licensing for locksmiths was introduced in 2016,[4] with locksmiths having to obtain a Private Security Authority license. The Irish Locksmith Organisation has 50 members with ongoing training to ensure all members are up-to-date with knowledge and skills.

United Kingdom

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In the UK, there is no current government regulation for locksmithing, so effectively anyone can trade and operate as a locksmith with no skill or knowledge of the industry.[5]

United States

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Fifteen states in the United States require licensure for locksmiths. Nassau County and New York City in New York State, and Hillsborough County and Miami-Dade County in Florida have their own licensing laws.[6] State and local laws are described in the table below. 15 states require locksmith licensing: Alabama, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia

US Locksmith Licensing[7][6]
State Regulatory body Requirements
Alabama Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure Certification course, continuing education, background check every two years
California California Department of Consumer Affairs, California Contractors State License Board; California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services California requires a C-28 Lock and Security Equipment Contractor license, with renewal every two years, in addition to a background check.[8][9]
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Background check, registration (renews biennially)
Florida No statewide regulation. Counties of Hillsborough and Miami-Dade require licensure for locksmiths and locksmith firms. Miami-Dade's ordinance covers locksmithing, as well as the installation of security alarm closed-circuit television systems. Miami-Dade: must register with county and receive license. Each business performing locksmith services must have at least one license-holder in its employ. Fingerprinting and criminal background check accompany license application. Initial applicants must have a locksmith permit for one year before full licensure. Any work involving electrical systems must be done by someone who also holds a state electrician's or contractor's license.[10] Hillsborough: must apply for a biennial locksmith license. The cost is $500 for an individual or firm of up to five employees, $750 for a firm of six to ten employees, and $1000 for a firm of more than ten employees. A background check and proof of insurance are also required.[11]: 1 Pinellas County: The City of Clearwater requires fingerprints applied by Clearwater police.
Illinois Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Must not have been convicted of a felony in the last ten years, must take twenty-hour licensure course, must pass examination[12]
Louisiana Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshall Must pass examination, pay initial registration of $250, and maintain registration for $50 annually thereafter. Additional training and certification are required for locksmiths dealing with locks on fire and safety equipment and alarm systems.[13]
Maryland Maryland Locksmith Licensing Program, Maryland Department of Labor Must apply for a license and submit to a criminal records check, and after issue, must carry a state-issued locksmith license card at all times when performing work. Prior felony and misdemeanor convictions will be weighed by the Secretary of Labor according to statutorily-determined factors, including length of time since the offense and applicant's behavior since, when deciding to grant or withhold a license. The licensee must carry liability insurance, and submit proof of insurance to the secretary.[14]
Nebraska County Clerk Registration with the county clerk in the county in which the locksmith's business is located
Nevada County Sheriff Must not be in arrears on child support, and must register with the county sheriff of the county in which the business is located
New Jersey New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors Must be at least eighteen years of age, must complete three years of supervised locksmith work, working an average of at least twenty hours a week, or complete a formal two-year apprenticeship in a program approved by the United States Department of Labor, must not have been convicted of certain crimes within a ten-year period prior to application, and must pass an examination before being granted license.[15]
New York No statewide licensing requirement. In Nassau County, a county license is required.[16] Nassau County requirements include submission of passport-style photos for photo identification license card for the principal applicant; business or home address and phone number and proof of number operability in the form of a recent telephone bill; a listing of all employees and officers of the company along with passport photos; recent utility bill for the business location if the business is not operated from home; a statement of all criminal convictions for all employees and officers, along with court records if requested; statement all trade names used by the business, and incorporation documents, if applicable; proof of insurance; proof of workers' compensation registration; a federal employee identification number, and a state sales tax number, if applicable; and fingerprint records for all applicants, in addition to a non-refundable processing fee.[17]: 2–3 
North Carolina North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board Must submit documentation of criminal history. Must submit documentation of out-of-state licenses, immigration status, and military discharge, if applicable. May optionally submit training certifications and other data. Must pay an initial license fee and subsequent annual renewal fees and keep license on person at all times. Must notify state of any employees operating under the owner's locksmith license. All apprentices must be themselves licensed under an apprentice license, and may not perform certain services, except under the direct supervision of a full locksmith license holder.[18][19]
Oklahoma Alarm, Locksmith, & Fire Sprinkler Program, Oklahoma Department of Labor Must not have been convicted of a felony and must register with Alarm, Locksmith, & Fire Sprinkler Program[20]
Oregon Oregon Construction Contractors Board Must pass a criminal background check, pass a license examination, and renew registration biennially
Tennessee Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance Must provide documentation of citizenship or legal residency, any criminal convictions, all changes of address; business license in county or city where business operates, or a notarized statement that services will be for an employer or association and not offered directly to the public; otherwise, must submit documentation of application for, or employment by, a Tennessee Locksmith Company duly registered with the state. Conviction of a felony, or any level of drug, burglary, or breaking and entering offense may bar the applicant from licensure.[21]
Texas Department of Public Safety Private Security Board The owner or manager of a company providing locksmith services must hold a Locksmith Company License. To qualify for a license, the applicant must have two years service as a locksmith for a licensed company. Alternatively, the applicant may substitute one year's experience plus successful completion of a forty-eight hour licensure course, followed by successful completion of a comprehensive license examination.[22]
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Must be over eighteen years of age. Must complete an eighteen-hour training course. Must undergo a criminal records check and submit fingerprints. Anyone convicted of a felony or misdemeanor (excluding traffic violations) in Virginia or any other jurisdiction must complete a supplemental Criminal History form detailing the circumstances of arrest and conviction, completion of sentence, and any record pertaining to parole or probation. Any false statements or omissions can provide grounds for denial of license and possible criminal sanctions.[23][24]

Employment

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A Locksmith, 2013

Locksmiths may be commercial (working out of a storefront), mobile (working out of a vehicle), institutional (employed by an institution) or investigatory (forensic locksmiths) or may specialize in one aspect of the skill, such as an automotive lock specialist, a master key system specialist or a safe technician.[2] Many locksmiths also work as security consultants, but not all security consultants possess locksmithing skills. Locksmiths are frequently certified in specific skill areas or to a level of skill within the trade. This is separate from certificates of completion of training courses. In determining skill levels, certifications from manufacturers or locksmith associations are usually more valid criteria than certificates of completion. Some locksmiths decide to call themselves "Master Locksmiths" whether they are fully trained or not, and some training certificates appear quite authoritative.

The majority of locksmiths also work on any existing door hardware, not just locking mechanisms. This includes door closers, door hinges, electric strikes, frame repairs and other door hardware.

Full disclosure

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The issue of full disclosure was first raised in the context of locksmithing, in a 19th-century controversy regarding whether weaknesses in lock systems should be kept secret in the locksmithing community, or revealed to the public.

According to A. C. Hobbs:

A commercial, and in some respects a social doubt has been started within the last year or two, whether or not it is right to discuss so openly the security or insecurity of locks. Many well-meaning persons suppose that the discussion respecting the means for baffling the supposed safety of locks offers a premium for dishonesty, by showing others how to be dishonest. This is a fallacy. Rogues are very keen in their profession, and know already much more than we can teach them respecting their several kinds of roguery.

Rogues knew a good deal about lock-picking long before locksmiths discussed it among themselves, as they have lately done. If a lock, let it have been made in whatever country, or by whatever maker, is not so inviolable as it has hitherto been deemed to be, surely it is to the interest of honest persons to know this fact, because the dishonest are tolerably certain to apply the knowledge practically; and the spread of the knowledge is necessary to give fair play to those who might suffer by ignorance.

It cannot be too earnestly urged that an acquaintance with real facts will, in the end, be better for all parties. Some time ago, when the reading public was alarmed at being told how London milk is adulterated, timid persons deprecated the exposure, on the plea that it would give instructions in the art of adulterating milk; a vain fear, milkmen knew all about it before, whether they practised it or not; and the exposure only taught purchasers the necessity of a little scrutiny and caution, leaving them to obey this necessity or not, as they pleased.

-- From A. C. Hobbs (Charles Tomlinson, ed.), Locks and Safes: The Construction of Locks. Published by Virtue & Co., London, 1853 (revised 1868).

Notable locksmiths

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See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Lock Manufacturers and Brands". 24 7 Locksmiths. Archived from the original on 2019-06-15. Retrieved 2017-08-13.
  2. ^ a b Statistics, United States Bureau of Labor (1976). Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Division of Occupational Outlook. pp. 416–417. Retrieved 15 October 2018.
  3. ^ "Certificate III in Locksmithing". TAFE Queensland. Retrieved 2021-01-22.
  4. ^ "Licensing of Locksmiths".
  5. ^ "Are locksmiths licensed in the UK?". The National Guild of Certified Locksmiths. April 9, 2021. Retrieved May 23, 2023.
  6. ^ a b "State Licensing Laws". Associated Locksmiths of America. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  7. ^ Carpenter, Dick M. III; Knepper, Lisa; Sweetland, Kyle; McDonald, Jennifer. "License to Work: A National Study of Burdens from Occupational Licensing". Institute for Justice. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  8. ^ "Locksmith Company and Locksmith Employee Fact Sheet". California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. July 2020. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  9. ^ "Licensing_Classifications: C-28 Lock And Security Equipment". s. Retrieved January 25, 2021.
  10. ^ "Locksmith License". Miami-Dade County. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
  11. ^ "Hillsborough County Locksmith Services Business Licensing Application and Important Information" (PDF). Hillsborough County. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
  12. ^ "Locksmith". Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  13. ^ "Life Safety & Property Protection Training Requirements". Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshalln. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  14. ^ "Maryland Locksmith Licensing Program". Maryland Department of Labor. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  15. ^ "New Jersey Office of the Attorney General: Application for a Locksmith License" (PDF). New Jersey Attorney General. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  16. ^ "Local Law 19-2007: A Local Law to amend the Administrative Code in relation to locksmith licenses". Nassau County Legislature. Retrieved July 10, 2021.
  17. ^ "General Instructions for the Locksmith License". Nassau County Department of Consumer Affairs. Retrieved July 10, 2021.
  18. ^ "North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board: Application for a Locksmith License" (PDF). North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board. Retrieved January 24, 2021.
  19. ^ "North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board: Application for a Locksmith Apprentice License". North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board. Retrieved January 24, 2021.
  20. ^ "Alarm, Locksmith, & Fire Sprinkler Program". Oklahoma Office of the Department of Labor. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
  21. ^ "TN Regulations: Locksmith". Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. Retrieved January 28, 2021.
  22. ^ "Private Security Administrative Rules:RULE §35.123 Locksmith Company License" (PDF). Texas Department of Public Safety. Retrieved February 1, 2021.
  23. ^ "Licensure and Regulatory Affairs: Locksmith". Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Retrieved February 1, 2021.
  24. ^ "Licensure and Regulatory Affairs: Criminal History". Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Retrieved February 1, 2021.
  25. ^ Lea, Robert (2010). "Going for Growth: why Banham is not going to bolt now" The Times
  26. ^ Evening Standard. 9/25/2014, p73. 1p.
  27. ^ "Lock cylinder". Archived from the original on 2017-12-31.
  28. ^ "Door fastening device". Archived from the original on 2017-12-31.
  29. ^ "Banham - Experts in Security Services". Banham. Archived from the original on 2017-01-25.
  30. ^ "Opening an Antique Bramah Box Lock". Hygra.com. Archived from the original on 2012-03-27. Retrieved 2012-08-15.
  31. ^ "Bramah Locks". Crypto.com. Archived from the original on 2012-09-04. Retrieved 2012-08-15.
[edit]

 

TL-15 Burglary Rated Safe
Basic steel safe with an electronic lock.

A safe (also called a strongbox or coffer) is a secure lockable enclosure used for securing valuable objects against theft or fire. A safe is usually a hollow cuboid or cylinder, with one face being removable or hinged to form a door. The body and door may be cast from metal (such as steel) or formed out of plastic through blow molding. Bank teller safes typically are secured to the counter, have a slit opening for dropping valuables into the safe without opening it, and a time-delay combination lock to foil thieves. One significant distinction between types of safes is whether the safe is secured to a wall or structure or if it can be moved around.

History

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The first known safe dates back to the 13th century BC and was found in the tomb of Pharaoh Ramesses II. It was made of wood and consisted of a locking system resembling the modern pin tumbler lock.[1]

In the 16th century, blacksmiths in southern Germany, Austria, and France first forged cash boxes in sheet iron. These sheet-iron money chests served as the models for mass-produced cash boxes in the 19th century.[2]

In the 17th century, in northern Europe, iron safes were sometimes made in the shape of a barrel, with a padlock on top.[3]

In 1835, English inventors Charles and Jeremiah Chubb in Wolverhampton, England, received a patent for a burglar-resisting safe and began a production of safes.[4] The Chubb brothers had produced locks since 1818. Chubb Locks was an independent company until 2000 when it was sold to Assa Abloy.

On November 2, 1886, inventor Henry Brown patented a "receptacle for storing and preserving papers". The container was fire retardant and accident resistant as it was made from forged metal. The box was able to be safely secured with a lock and key and also able to maintain organization by offering different slots to organize important papers.[5][6]

Specifications

[edit]

Specifications for safes include some or all of the following parameters:

It is often possible to open a safe without access to the key or knowledge of the combination; this activity is known as safe-cracking and is a popular theme in heist films.

A diversion safe, or hidden safe, is a safe that is made from an otherwise ordinary object such as a book, a candle, a can, or wall outlet. Valuables are placed in these hidden safes, which are themselves placed inconspicuously (for example, a book would be placed on a book shelf).

Strongbox multiple locking mechanism

Fire-resistant record protection equipment consists of self-contained devices that incorporate insulated bodies, doors, drawers or lids, or non-rated multi-drawer devices housing individually rated containers that contain one or more inner compartments for storage of records. These devices are intended to provide protection to one or more types of records as evidenced by the assigned Class rating or ratings; Class 350 for paper, Class 150 for microfilm, microfiche other and photographic film and Class 125 for magnetic media and hard drives. Enclosures of this type are typically rated to protect contents for 12, 1, 2, or 4 hours; they will not protect indefinitely. They may also be rated for their resistance to impact should the safe fall a specified distance onto a hard surface, or have debris fall upon it during a fire.[7]

Burglary-resistant safes are rated as to their resistance to various types of tools and the duration of the attack.

Safes can contain hardware that automatically dispenses cash or validates bills as part of an automated cash handling system.

Room-sized fireproof vaults

[edit]

For larger volumes of heat-sensitive materials, a modular room-sized vault is much more economical than purchasing and storing many fire rated safes. Typically these room-sized vaults are utilized by corporations, government agencies and off-site storage service firms. Fireproof vaults are rated up to Class 125-4 Hour for large data storage applications. These vaults utilize ceramic fiber, a high temperature industrial insulating material, as the core of their modular panel system. All components of the vault, not just the walls and roof panels, must be Class 125 rated to achieve that overall rating for the vault. This includes the door assembly (a double door is needed since there is no single Class 125 vault door available), cable penetrations, coolant line penetrations (for split HVAC systems), and air duct penetrations.

There are also Class 150 applications (such as microfilm) and Class 350 vaults for protecting valuable paper documents. Like the data-rated (Class 125) structures, these vault systems employ ceramic fiber insulation and components rated to meet or exceed the required level of protection.

In recent years room-sized Class 125 vaults have been installed to protect entire data centers. As data storage technologies migrate from tape-based storage methods to hard drives, this trend is likely to continue.[8]

Fire-resistant safes

[edit]
A reinforced, fireproof cabinet for dangerous chemicals

A fire-resistant safe is a type of safe that is designed to protect its contents from high temperatures or actual fire. Fire resistant safes are usually rated by the amount of time they can withstand the extreme temperatures a fire produces, while not exceeding a set internal temperature, e.g., less than 350 °F (177 °C). Models are typically available between half-hour and four-hour durations.

In the UK, the BS EN-1047 standard is set aside for data and document safes to determine their ability to withstand prolonged intense heat and impact damage.

  • Document safes are designed to maintain an internal temperature no greater than 177 °C (351 °F) while in a constantly heated environment in excess of 1,000 °C (1,830 °F).
  • Data safes are designed to maintain an internal temperature no greater than 55 °C (131 °F) while in a constantly heated environment in excess of 1,000 °C (1,830 °F).

These conditions are maintained for the duration of the test. This is usually at least 30 minutes but can extend to many hours depending on grade. Both kinds of safe are also tested for impact by dropping from a set height onto a solid surface and then tested for fire survivability once again.[9]

In the United States, both the writing of standards for fire-resistance and the actual testing of safes is performed by Underwriters Laboratories.

An in-floor safe installed in a concrete floor is very resistant to fire. However, not all floor safes are watertight; they may fill with water from fire hoses. Contents can be protected against water damage by appropriate packaging.

Reinforced, fireproof cabinets are also used for dangerous chemicals or flammable goods.

Wall safes

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Wall safes are designed to provide hidden protection for documents and miscellaneous valuables. Adjustable depth allows the maximization of usable space when installed in different wall thicknesses. Some wall safes have pry-resistant recessed doors with concealed hinges. A painting or other wall decoration may be hung over a wall safe to hide it.

Small safes may be fixed to a wall to prevent the entire safe being removed, without concealment. Very small secure enclosures known as key safes, opened by entering a combination, are attached to the wall of a building to store the keys allowing access, so that they are available only to a person knowing the combination, typically for holiday lets, carers, or emergency use.[10][11]

Safe-cracking

[edit]

Safe-cracking is opening a safe without a combination or key. There are many methods of safe-cracking ranging from brute force methods to guessing the combination. The easiest method that can be used on many safes is "safe bouncing", which involves hitting the safe on top; this may cause the locking pin to budge, opening the safe[citation needed].

Physicist Richard Feynman gained a reputation for safe-cracking while working on the Manhattan Project during the Second World War. He did this for recreation, describing his experiences and methods in detail in his book Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!. He made the point that the secure storage he successfully opened clandestinely (to which he would have been given access if he asked) contained contents far more important than any thief had ever accessed, all the secrets of the wartime atomic bomb project.[12]

UL Safe Standards

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Underwriters Laboratories (UL) testing certifications are known to be some of the most rigorous and most respected in the world.[13] UL provides numerous ratings, the most common security and fire ratings as discussed below. UL ratings are the typical rating standards used for safes within the United States. They are only matched by B.T.U/VDMA certifications (Germany).[14]

Fire ratings

[edit]
UL 1 Hour Fire Label

UL provides a variety of fire rating classifications, 125, 150, and 350 representing the maximum internal temperature in degrees Fahrenheit the safe may not exceed during the test. The classifications come in durations from

12-hour to 4 hours in length. The safe is exposed to gradually higher temperatures depending on the duration of the test. The most common standards being the 350 one hour (1,700 degrees) and 350 two hour (1,850 degrees) ratings as the temperature paper chars is approximately 451 degrees Fahrenheit.[15]

Burglary ratings

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UL standards are one of the principal North American protection standards.[16] The resistance time limit specifies "tools on the safe" time without access to contents.[17] The test might take hours to run and can be repeated as many times as the UL staff feel necessary to ensure that all prospective avenues of attack have been thoroughly explored.

Residential Security Containers (RSC)

[edit]

This is the entry level security rating offered by Underwriters Laboratories and it has its own standard: (UL 1037).[18] The standard originally had one level, now known as RSC Level I. The standard was expanded in 2016 providing a greater range of security options.[19] This standard also involves a drop test for products weighing not more than 750 pounds, simulating attempting to gain entry by dropping the safe.[20]

  • RSC Level I - Must withstand a five-minute attack by one technician using common hand tools such as drills, screwdrivers and hammers.
  • RSC Level II - Must withstand a ten-minute attack by two technicians who use more aggressive tools such as picks, sledgehammers, pry bars, high-speed carbide drills and pressure applying devices. In addition, the technicians will attempt to make a six-square-inch opening in the door or the front face of the safe.
  • RSC Level III - Also gives two technicians a ten-minute window to perform the test, but the range of tools become even more aggressive, and the size of the maximum attack opening must not exceed two square inches.

Tool-Resistant Safe (TL)

[edit]
UL TL-15 Tool-Resistant Safe Label

Safes at this level are typically, but not exclusively, used for commercial applications such as jewelers and coin dealers. These ratings are granted to combination locked safes that successfully resist when attacked by two technicians with common hand tools, picking tools, mechanical or portable electric tools, grinding points, carbide drills and pressure applying devices or mechanisms. In addition to those requirements, the safe must weigh at least 750 pounds or come with instructions for anchoring, and have body walls of material equivalent to at least 1" open hearth steel with a minimum tensile strength of 50,000 psi. The UL Standard for tool-resistant safes and above are governed by UL Standard 687.[21][22]

  • TL-15 - This is a combination-locked safe that offers limited protection against combinations of common mechanical and electrical tools. The safe will resist abuse for 15 minutes from tools such as hand tools, picking tools, mechanical or electric tools, grinding points, carbide drills and devices that apply pressure. While the UL 687 defines this as a "limited degree" of protection, that standard is used for commercial applications, and the TL-15 rating offers significantly better protection than many unrated safes.
  • TL-30 - This safe offers moderate protection against combinations of mechanical and electrical tools. The safe will resist abuse for 30 minutes from the same tools as the TL-15 test, plus more aggressive tools including cutting wheels and power saws.
  • TL-30x6 - This is safe can withstand the same assaults as the TL-30 but protection is offered on all six-sides of the body as opposed to only the door.

Torch & Tool Resistant Safe (TRTL)

[edit]
  • TRTL-30x6 - This is a combination-locked safe that offers high protection against combinations of mechanical, electrical, and cutting tools. The safe will resist abuse for 30 minutes from tools such as hand tools, picking tools, mechanical or electrical tools, grinding points, carbide drills, devices that apply pressure, cutting wheels, power saws, impact tools and, in addition, can withstand an oxy-fuel welding and cutting torch (tested gas limited to 1,000 cubic feet (28 m3) combined total oxygen and fuel gas.)[23]
  • TRTL-60x6 - This class will withstand the same assaults as Class TRTL-30x6 for 60 minutes.

Torch, Explosive & Tool Resistant Safe (TXTL)

[edit]
  • TXTL-60x6 - This class meets all the requirements for Class TRTL-60x6 and in addition can withstand detonation of one charge of 4 ounces (110 g) of nitroglycerin, or other high explosive of equivalent energy. Multiple charges up to a total of 8 ounces (230 g) may be used.

European safe standards

[edit]

Depending on the usage, the European Committee for Standardization has published different European standards for safes. Testing and certification according to these standards should be done by an accredited certification body, e.g. European Certification Body.[24]

  • EN 1143-1 is the main testing standard for safes, ATM safes, strongroom doors and strongrooms. For safes it features eleven resistance grades (0, I, II, ..., to X). From one grade to the next the security rises by approximately 50%. Testing is based on a free choice of attack tools and methods. Testing requires partial access (hand hole) and complete access attempts, on all sides of the product. The security is calculated by using ratings of tools and the attack time. The result is expressed in resistance units (RU).[25]
  • EN 14450 is a testing standard for secure cabinets and strongboxes. The standard covers products meant for purposes where the security resistance required is less than that of EN 1143–1.[26]

For fire-resistant safes the EN 1047-1 (fire resistance standard similar to the fire resistance safe standard of UL) and EN 15659 (for light fire storage units) were published.[27]

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "The History of Safes". Insafe International Limited. 18 February 2015. Archived from the original on 2020-06-30. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  2. ^ "Sixteenth and seventeenth century money chests and cash boxes". Historical Locks. Archived from the original on 2020-06-30. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  3. ^ Barrel Safe https://elizabethstreetgallery.com/barrel-safe/ Archived 2022-07-11 at the Wayback Machine
  4. ^ "History". Archived from the original on 2010-09-09.
  5. ^ "Henry Brown". Inventors. About.com. 2011. Archived from the original on January 16, 2013. Retrieved 9 March 2012.
  6. ^ Chamberlain, Gaius (November 26, 2012). "Henry Brown". The Black Inventor Online Museum. Archived from the original on July 8, 2020. Retrieved June 30, 2020.
  7. ^ "Five reasons you need a Home Safe". Archived from the original on 2017-04-20. Retrieved 2017-04-19.
  8. ^ "Protection for the Modular Data Center". Cision PRWeb. 2008-08-26. Archived from the original on 2022-03-11. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  9. ^ Standard document: BS EN 1047-2:2000
  10. ^ "Key safes". Kirklees Council. Retrieved 5 October 2024.
  11. ^ "Key Safe Information Sheet" (PDF). Derbyshire County Council. 18 November 2022.
  12. ^ Feynman, Richard (1997). Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!. W. W. Norton & Company. p. 60. ISBN 978-0-393-31604-9.
  13. ^ "Cracking the Code: A Glimpse into UL's Burglary Testing of Safes". Underwriters Laboratories (UL). 2019-09-10. Archived from the original on 2020-06-30. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  14. ^ "EN 1143-1, EN 1143-2 and EN 14450". Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau. Archived from the original on 2020-07-01. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  15. ^ "UL Fire Rating". www.klsecurity.com. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  16. ^ sage (2018-09-11). "Understanding the New UL RSC Level II Burglary Safe Rating". Antique Sage. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  17. ^ Meilink TL30 Safe Burglary Test at UL, retrieved 2024-03-25
  18. ^ "UL 1037: Standard for Antitheft Alarms and Devices". Underwriters Limited. 1999-02-24. Archived from the original on 2016-07-31. Retrieved 2016-07-01.
  19. ^ sage (2018-09-11). "Understanding the New UL RSC Level II Burglary Safe Rating". Antique Sage. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  20. ^ "Residential Security Container Standard Revised". UL Solutions. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  21. ^ "UL 687: Standard for Burglary-Resistant Safes". Underwriters Limited. 2011-07-19. Archived from the original on 2016-08-18. Retrieved 2016-07-01.
  22. ^ "UL 687 Burglary Safe". www.klsecurity.com. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  23. ^ Salazar, Diet (2020-06-15). "Safes: Everything You Need to Know". Archived from the original on 2020-06-30. Retrieved 2020-06-30.
  24. ^ EN 1143-1:2012, clause 7.2
  25. ^ "CEN". Archived from the original on 2020-10-21. Retrieved 2014-04-10.
  26. ^ "CEN". Archived from the original on 2014-04-13. Retrieved 2014-04-10.
  27. ^ "EN 1047-1, EN 1047-2 and EN 15659". Archived from the original on 2014-04-13. Retrieved 2014-04-10.

Further reading

[edit]
  • Locks, Safes, and Security: An International Police Reference, published by Charles Thomas Publishers, Springfield, Illinois, United States. (2000) ISBN 0-398-07079-2.
[edit]
  • Media related to Safes at Wikimedia Commons

 

A typical modern padlock and its keys

A lock is a mechanical or electronic fastening device that is released by a physical object (such as a key, keycard, fingerprint, RFID card, security token or coin), by supplying secret information (such as a number or letter permutation or password), by a combination thereof, or it may only be able to be opened from one side, such as a door chain.

A key is a device that is used to operate a lock (to lock or unlock it). A typical key is a small piece of metal consisting of two parts: the bit or blade, which slides into the keyway of the lock and distinguishes between different keys, and the bow, which is left protruding so that torque can be applied by the user. In its simplest implementation, a key operates one lock or set of locks that are keyed alike, a lock/key system where each similarly keyed lock requires the same, unique key.

The key serves as a security token for access to the locked area; locks are meant to only allow persons having the correct key to open it and gain access. In more complex mechanical lock/key systems, two different keys, one of which is known as the master key, serve to open the lock. Common metals include brass, plated brass, nickel silver, and steel. The act of opening a lock without a key is called lock picking.

History

[edit]
Bronze lock in the form of a scorpion, from Nalanda, India, 10th century

Premodern history

[edit]
Medieval Gothic lock, from the 15th–16th centuries, made of iron, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City)

Locks have been in use for over 6000 years, with one early example discovered in the ruins of Nineveh, the capital of ancient Assyria.[1] Locks such as this were developed into the Egyptian wooden pin lock, which consisted of a bolt, door fixture or attachment, and key. When the key was inserted, pins within the fixture were lifted out of drilled holes within the bolt, allowing it to move. When the key was removed, the pins fell part-way into the bolt, preventing movement.[2]

The warded lock was also present from antiquity and remains the most recognizable lock and key design in the Western world. The first all-metal locks appeared between the years 870 and 900, and are attributed to English craftsmen.[3] It is also said that the key was invented by Theodorus of Samos in the 6th century BC.[1]

The Romans invented metal locks and keys and the system of security provided by wards.[4]

Affluent Romans often kept their valuables in secure locked boxes within their households, and wore the keys as rings on their fingers. The practice had two benefits: It kept the key handy at all times, while signaling that the wearer was wealthy and important enough to have money and jewellery worth securing.[5]

Drunk man's lock at the bottom (black lock) and a regular modern lock at the top

A special type of lock, dating back to the 17th–18th century, although potentially older as similar locks date back to the 14th century, can be found in the Beguinage of the Belgian city Lier.[6][7] These locks are most likely Gothic locks, that were decorated with foliage, often in a V-shape surrounding the keyhole.[8] They are often called drunk man's lock, as these locks were, according to certain sources, designed in such a way a person can still find the keyhole in the dark, although this might not be the case as the ornaments might have been purely aesthetic.[6][7] In more recent times similar locks have been designed.[9][10]

Modern locks

[edit]
Tibetan Lock and key – Dhankhar Gompa, Spiti. India. 2004
Chinese lock and key from Yunnan Province, early 20th century
Key anatomy

With the onset of the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century and the concomitant development of precision engineering and component standardization, locks and keys were manufactured with increasing complexity and sophistication.[11]

The lever tumbler lock, which uses a set of levers to prevent the bolt from moving in the lock, was invented by Robert Barron in 1778.[12] His double acting lever lock required the lever to be lifted to a certain height by having a slot cut in the lever, so lifting the lever too far was as bad as not lifting the lever far enough. This type of lock is still used today.[13]

Diagram of a Chubb detector lock

The lever tumbler lock was greatly improved by Jeremiah Chubb in 1818.[12] A burglary in Portsmouth Dockyard prompted the British Government to announce a competition to produce a lock that could be opened only with its own key.[5] Chubb developed the Chubb detector lock, which incorporated an integral security feature that could frustrate unauthorized access attempts and would indicate to the lock's owner if it had been interfered with. Chubb was awarded £100 after a trained lock-picker failed to break the lock after 3 months.[14]

In 1820, Jeremiah joined his brother Charles in starting their own lock company, Chubb. Chubb made various improvements to his lock: his 1824 improved design did not require a special regulator key to reset the lock; by 1847 his keys used six levers rather than four; and he later introduced a disc that allowed the key to pass but narrowed the field of view, hiding the levers from anybody attempting to pick the lock.[15] The Chubb brothers also received a patent for the first burglar-resisting safe and began production in 1835.

The designs of Barron and Chubb were based on the use of movable levers, but Joseph Bramah, a prolific inventor, developed an alternative method in 1784. His lock used a cylindrical key with precise notches along the surface; these moved the metal slides that impeded the turning of the bolt into an exact alignment, allowing the lock to open. The lock was at the limits of the precision manufacturing capabilities of the time and was said by its inventor to be unpickable. In the same year Bramah started the Bramah Locks company at 124 Piccadilly, and displayed the "Challenge Lock" in the window of his shop from 1790, challenging "...the artist who can make an instrument that will pick or open this lock" for the reward of £200. The challenge stood for over 67 years until, at the Great Exhibition of 1851, the American locksmith Alfred Charles Hobbs was able to open the lock and, following some argument about the circumstances under which he had opened it, was awarded the prize. Hobbs' attempt required some 51 hours, spread over 16 days.

The earliest patent for a double-acting pin tumbler lock was granted to American physician Abraham O. Stansbury in England in 1805,[16] but the modern version, still in use today, was invented by American Linus Yale Sr. in 1848.[17] This lock design used pins of varying lengths to prevent the lock from opening without the correct key. In 1861, Linus Yale Jr. was inspired by the original 1840s pin-tumbler lock designed by his father, thus inventing and patenting a smaller flat key with serrated edges as well as pins of varying lengths within the lock itself, the same design of the pin-tumbler lock which still remains in use today.[18] The modern Yale lock is essentially a more developed version of the Egyptian lock.

Despite some improvement in key design since, the majority of locks today are still variants of the designs invented by Bramah, Chubb and Yale.

Types of lock

[edit]

With physical keys

[edit]

A warded lock uses a set of obstructions, or wards, to prevent the lock from opening unless the correct key is inserted. The key has notches or slots that correspond to the obstructions in the lock, allowing it to rotate freely inside the lock. Warded locks are typically reserved for low-security applications as a well-designed skeleton key can successfully open a wide variety of warded locks.

The pin tumbler lock uses a set of pins to prevent the lock from opening unless the correct key is inserted. The key has a series of grooves on either side of the key's blade that limit the type of lock the key can slide into. As the key slides into the lock, the horizontal grooves on the blade align with the wards in the keyway allowing or denying entry to the cylinder. A series of pointed teeth and notches on the blade, called bittings, then allow pins to move up and down until they are in line with the shear line of the inner and outer cylinder, allowing the cylinder or cam to rotate freely and the lock to open. An additional pin called the master pin is present between the key and driver pins in locks that accept master keys, to allow the plug to rotate at multiple pin elevations.

A wafer tumbler lock is similar to the pin tumbler lock and works on a similar principle. However, unlike the pin lock (where each pin consists of two or more pieces) each wafer is a single piece. The wafer tumbler lock is often incorrectly referred to as a disc tumbler lock, which uses an entirely different mechanism. The wafer lock is relatively inexpensive to produce and is often used in automobiles and cabinetry.

The disc tumbler lock or Abloy lock is composed of slotted rotating detainer discs.

The lever tumbler lock uses a set of levers to prevent the bolt from moving in the lock. In its simplest form, lifting the tumbler above a certain height will allow the bolt to slide past. Lever locks are commonly recessed inside wooden doors or on some older forms of padlocks, including fire brigade padlocks.

A magnetic keyed lock is a locking mechanism whereby the key utilizes magnets as part of the locking and unlocking mechanism. A magnetic key would use from one to many small magnets oriented so that the North and South poles would equate to a combination to push or pull the lock's internal tumblers thus releasing the lock.

With electronic keys

[edit]

An electronic lock works by means of an electric current and is usually connected to an access control system. In addition to the pin and tumbler used in standard locks, electronic locks connect the bolt or cylinder to a motor within the door using a part called an actuator. Types of electronic locks include the following:

A keycard lock operates with a flat card of similar dimensions as a credit card. In order to open the door, one needs to successfully match the signature within the keycard.

The lock in a typical remote keyless system operates with a smart key radio transmitter. The lock typically accepts a particular valid code only once, and the smart key transmits a different rolling code every time the button is pressed. Generally the car door can be opened with either a valid code by radio transmission, or with a (non-electronic) pin tumbler key. The ignition switch may require a transponder car key to both open a pin tumbler lock and also transmit a valid code by radio transmission.

A smart lock is an electromechanics lock that gets instructions to lock and unlock the door from an authorized device using a cryptographic key and wireless protocol. Smart locks have begun to be used more commonly in residential areas, often controlled with smartphones.[19][20] Smart locks are used in coworking spaces and offices to enable keyless office entry.[21] In addition, electronic locks cannot be picked with conventional tools.

Locksmithing

[edit]
Locksmith, 1451

Locksmithing is a traditional trade, and in most countries requires completion of an apprenticeship. The level of formal education required varies from country to country, from no qualifications required at all in the UK,[22] to a simple training certificate awarded by an employer, to a full diploma from an engineering college. Locksmiths may be commercial (working out of a storefront), mobile (working out of a vehicle), institutional, or investigational (forensic locksmiths). They may specialize in one aspect of the skill, such as an automotive lock specialist, a master key system specialist or a safe technician. Many also act as security consultants, but not all security consultants have the skills and knowledge of a locksmith.[citation needed]

Historically, locksmiths constructed or repaired an entire lock, including its constituent parts. The rise of cheap mass production has made this less common; the vast majority of locks are repaired through like-for-like replacements, high-security safes and strongboxes being the most common exception. Many locksmiths also work on any existing door hardware, including door closers, hinges, electric strikes, and frame repairs, or service electronic locks by making keys for transponder-equipped vehicles and implementing access control systems.

Although the fitting and replacement of keys remains an important part of locksmithing, modern locksmiths are primarily involved in the installation of high quality lock-sets and the design, implementation, and management of keying and key control systems. Locksmiths are frequently required to determine the level of risk to an individual or institution and then recommend and implement appropriate combinations of equipment and policies to create a "security layer" that exceeds the reasonable gain of an intruder.[citation needed]

Key duplication

[edit]
Video showing the process of cutting a key

Traditional key cutting is the primary method of key duplication. It is a subtractive process named after the metalworking process of cutting, where a flat blank key is ground down to form the same shape as the template (original) key. The process roughly follows these stages:

  1. The original key is fitted into a vise in a machine, with a blank attached to a parallel vise which is mechanically linked.
  2. The original key is moved along a guide in a movement which follows the key's shape, while the blank is moved in the same pattern against a cutting wheel by the mechanical linkage between the vices.
  3. After cutting, the new key is deburred by scrubbing it with a metal brush to remove particles of metal which could be dangerously sharp and foul locks.

Modern key cutting replaces the mechanical key following aspect with a process in which the original key is scanned electronically, processed by software, stored, then used to guide a cutting wheel when a key is produced. The capability to store electronic copies of the key's shape allows for key shapes to be stored for key cutting by any party that has access to the key image.

Different key cutting machines are more or less automated, using different milling or grinding equipment, and follow the design of early 20th century key duplicators.

Key duplication is available in many retail hardware stores and as a service of the specialized locksmith, though the correct key blank may not be available. More recently, online services for duplicating keys have become available.

 

Keyhole

[edit]
A traditional keyhole for a warded lock

A keyhole (or keyway) is a hole or aperture (as in a door or lock) for receiving a key.[23] Lock keyway shapes vary widely with lock manufacturer, and many manufacturers have a number of unique profiles requiring a specifically milled key blank to engage the lock's tumblers.

Symbolism

[edit]

Heraldry

[edit]

Keys appear in various symbols and coats of arms, the best-known being that of the Holy See:[24] derived from the phrase in Matthew 16:19 which promises Saint Peter, in Roman Catholic tradition the first pope, the Keys of Heaven. But this is by no means the only case.

Artwork

[edit]

Some works of art associate keys with the Greek goddess of witchcraft, known as Hecate.[25]

Palestinian key

[edit]
Palestinian key at a Nakba Day demonstration in Berlin

The Palestinian key is the Palestinian collective symbol of their homes lost in the Nakba, when more than half of the population of Mandatory Palestine was expelled or fled violence in 1948 and were subsequently refused the right to return.[26][27][28] Since 2016, a Palestinian restaurant in Doha, Qatar, holds the Guinness World Record for the world's largest key – 2.7 tonnes and 7.8 × 3 meters.[29][30]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b de Vries, N. Cross and D. P. Grant, M. J. (1992). Design Methodology and Relationships with Science: Introduction. Eindhoven: Kluwer Academic Publishers. p. 32. ISBN 9780792321910. Archived from the original on 2016-10-24.
  2. ^ Ceccarelli, Marco (2004). International Symposium on History of Machines and Mechanisms. New York: Kluwer Academic Publishers. p. 43. ISBN 1402022034. Archived from the original on 2016-10-24.
  3. ^ "History". Locks.ru. Archived from the original on 2010-04-20. Retrieved 2010-06-10.
  4. ^ "Key | lock device". Encyclopedia Britannica. Archived from the original on 2021-12-24. Retrieved 2020-01-13.
  5. ^ a b "History". Slate. Slate Magazine. 15 May 2012. Archived from the original on 2012-12-09. Retrieved 2012-12-09.
  6. ^ a b R. De Bruyn, ‘Oude sloten op deurtjes in het Liers begijnhof’, in: 't land van Ryen jaargang 17, aflevering 3–4, 1967, p. 158, article in Dutch
  7. ^ a b Echtpaar schrijft eerste boek sinds twintig jaar over Liers begijnhof Archived 2022-11-07 at the Wayback Machine nieuwsblad.be, Chris van Rompaey, 17 april 2018, article in Dutch
  8. ^ Dictionary, Lexicon of locks and keys Archived 2023-05-27 at the Wayback Machine historicallocks.com
  9. ^ United States patent keyhole guide for locks and method of using the same Archived 2020-04-07 at the Wayback Machine patentimages, Eugene Toussant, 1990
  10. ^ V-Lock Helps Drunks Get Home to Bed Archived 2020-04-07 at the Wayback Machine wired.com, Charlie Sorrel, 5 April 2010
  11. ^ Abreha, Kaleb G.; Kassa, Woubet; Lartey, Emmanuel K. K.; Mengistae, Taye A.; Zeufack, Albert G. (2021-12-18). Industrialization in Sub-Saharan Africa: Seizing Opportunities in Global Value Chains. World Bank Publications. ISBN 978-1-4648-1721-2. Archived from the original on 2023-11-10. Retrieved 2022-05-18.
  12. ^ a b Chatwood, Arthur Brunel (1911). "Lock" . In Chisholm, Hugh (ed.). Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 16 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. pp. 841–844.
  13. ^ Pulford, Graham W. (2007). High-Security Mechanical Locks : An Encyclopedic Reference. Elsevier. p. 317. ISBN 978-0-7506-8437-8.
  14. ^ "Lock Making: Chubb & Son's Lock & Safe Co Ltd". Wolverhampton City Council. 2005. Archived from the original on 10 January 2016. Retrieved 16 November 2006.
  15. ^ Roper, C.A. & Phillips, Bill (2001). The Complete Book of Locks and Locksmithing. McGraw-Hill Publishing. ISBN 0-07-137494-9.
  16. ^ The Complete Book of Home, Site, and Office Security: Selecting, Installing, and Troubleshooting Systems and Devices. McGraw-Hill Professional. 2006. p. 11. ISBN 9780071467445. Archived from the original on 2016-11-21.
  17. ^ The Geek Atlas: 128 Places Where Science and Technology Come Alive. O'Reilly Media, Inc. 2009. p. 445. ISBN 9780596555627. Archived from the original on 2016-05-01.
  18. ^ "Inventor of the Week Archive". Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Archived from the original on 2013-05-29.
  19. ^ "Ditch the keys: it's time to get a smart lock". Popular Mechanics. 26 November 2013. Archived from the original on 16 December 2014. Retrieved 15 June 2016.
  20. ^ "Kisi And KeyMe, two smart phone apps, might make house keys obsolete". The Huffington Post. 26 November 2013. Archived from the original on 11 March 2015. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
  21. ^ Kurutz, Steven (11 June 2014). "Losing The Key". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 3 January 2016. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
  22. ^ "What qualifications do I need to be a locksmith?". Master Locksmiths Association. Archived from the original on 2019-05-23. Retrieved 2019-05-23.
  23. ^ Gove, Philip Babcock, ed. (1981). "keyhole". Webster's Third New International Dictionary of English Language. Merriam-Webster Inc. p. 1239.
  24. ^ Fox-Davies, Arthur Charles (1909). A Complete Guide to Heraldry. New York: Dodge Publishing. p. 291. ISBN 0-517-26643-1. LCCN 09023803 – via Internet Archive. cite book: ISBN / Date incompatibility (help)
  25. ^ Oskar Seyffert (1901). A Dictionary of Classical Antiquities: Mythology, Religion, Literature and Art (6 ed.). Swan Sonnenschein and Co. p. 271. Retrieved 2022-01-01.
  26. ^ Meital, Y.; Rayman, P. (2017). Recognition as Key for Reconciliation: Israel, Palestine, and Beyond. Social, Economic and Political Studies of the Middle East and Asia. Brill. ISBN 978-90-04-35580-4. Archived from the original on 2023-11-10. Retrieved 2023-04-06. Michal concedes the fact that Israelis do the same thing to the memory of the Nakba when saying "it was in 1948, enough talking about the past, let's talk about the future." When the Palestinians come with their keys [the Palestinian symbol of their lost homes], she says, "it's the same thing, it's a memory still burning in the hearts of families
  27. ^ Fisk, Robert (2018-06-28). "'I spoke to Palestinians who still hold the keys to homes they fled decades ago – many are still determined to return'". The Independent. Archived from the original on 2023-05-01. Retrieved 2023-04-06. Keys must always be the symbol of the Palestinian "Nakba" – the "disaster" – the final, fateful, terrible last turning in the lock of those front doors as 750,000 Arab men, women and children fled or were thrown out of their homes in what was to become the state of Israel in 1947 and 1948.
  28. ^ Feldman, llana. 2008. Refusing Invisibility: Documentation and Memorialization in Palestinian Refugee Claims Archived 2023-04-11 at the Wayback Machine, Journal of Refugee Studies 21 (4): 4, page 503: "Anyone familiar with Palestinian visibility practices will certainly be aware of the importance of certain central objects within this field. Many refugees still have the keys to their houses in Palestine. Keeping these keys, and showing them to visitors and researchers, is part of a hope for return and a claim to these properties. Given this widespread practice, these keys, with their distinctive old-fashioned look, have also become symbols of refugee commitment to Palestine. At demonstrations in support of Palestinians one can often find people carrying enlarged replicas of these keys—in the process transforming individual objects into collective symbols."
  29. ^ The Peninsula Newspaper (2016-05-16). "'Largest Key' dedicated to refugees around the world". The Peninsula Qatar. Archived from the original on 2023-05-01. Retrieved 2023-04-06. The gigantic key, dedicated to all the refugees around the world, was unveiled in a spectacular show at the Katara Amphitheatre last night featuring Palestinian Arab Idol winner Mohammed Assaf. "This key symbol for all the refugees in the world. We want to set a Guinness World Record to say that it is the right of these refugees to return back home. Actually this is linked particularly to Palestinian refugees."... Around 4,000 people filled the Katara Amphitheatre to witness the unveiling of the enormous key and enjoy the concert highlighted by the performance of the young Palestinian singer who is the first United Nations Relief and Works Agency regional youth ambassador for Palestine refugees.
  30. ^ "The Largest Key in The World". Ard Canaan Restaurant. 2016-12-08. Archived from the original on 2023-05-01. Retrieved 2023-04-06.

Further reading

[edit]
  • Phillips, Bill. (2005). The Complete Book of Locks and Locksmithing. McGraw-Hill. ISBN 0-07-144829-2.
  • Alth, Max (1972). All About Locks and Locksmithing. Penguin. ISBN 0-8015-0151-2
  • Robinson, Robert L. (1973). Complete Course in Professional Locksmithing Nelson-Hall. ISBN 0-911012-15-X
[edit]

 

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Very kind, professional, responds quickly. Showed up right in the timing window they said they would. Fair pricing as opposed to anyone else, I would absolutely go back.

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Driving Directions in Jackson County


Driving Directions From 39.066117996339, -94.540932397648 to
Driving Directions From 39.020931831299, -94.535444523304 to
Driving Directions From 39.096207506667, -94.504692877521 to
Driving Directions From 39.131881180203, -94.518021572261 to
Driving Directions From 39.117450769567, -94.579970539418 to
Driving Directions From 39.027629649669, -94.563253478213 to
Driving Directions From 39.004646299429, -94.579211365947 to
Driving Directions From 39.074831386268, -94.60585410061 to
Driving Directions From 39.094692093632, -94.561246117647 to
Driving Directions From 39.031890234166, -94.603055282122 to
Look for certifications (like ALOA), online reviews, and check if theyre insured and bonded. A legitimate business, even an affordable one, will have these credentials.
While prices vary by location, research average costs in your area beforehand. Unusually low quotes can be a red flag for scams or shoddy work. Get multiple quotes.
Be wary of bait-and-switch tactics (low quotes followed by inflated on-site prices). Verify the locksmiths physical address and avoid generic local locksmith listings online which may connect you to scammers.
Ask about their experience, specific services offered, upfront pricing (including service call fees), and warranties. Dont hesitate to request proof of licensing and insurance.