Different Locker Lock Types, Pros and Cons
This article is to throw some light on why to choose one locker lock type over another.
Key Locker Lock
Ideal if you are on a budget and don’t have large staffing requirements.
Before buying, consider how many staff will be using the lockers. If you are buying 50 or more doors, the risk of a lost key grows. If you’re budget does not allow for another option, be sure to check that a master key is available for purchase and check the price of replacement keys,
Pros
- Keys are simple and easy to use
- Cheap and easy to replace
- Keys can often be sourced cheaply from local lock smiths.
- Depending on key type some include a barrel exchange systems which allow for easy swap of barrels in the case of lost or stolen keys.
Cons
- Keys are easy to lose
- Cheap barrels are easy to bypass by a determined thief.
- Forgotten or lost keys require someone to manage keys.
- Waiting on replacement keys can leave a locker unusable for a period of time.
Latch Lock
Allows for user to organise there own security. Padlocking and can be an affordable way to reduce key management by admin staff.
Pros
- Easy to use, padlocks are simple to use.
- If the user is bringing their own padlock, it puts the responsible on the user for lost or stolen keys.
- Padlocks can are readily available for the user to buy.
Cons
- You must keep bolt cutters on site.
- Can be unsightly if the lockers are in a public space. By having every user choosing their own colourful padlocks.
Mechanical Combination Locker Lock
Combination Locks are a handy way to eliminate the need for keys in your locker room while allowing for secure access by patrons. Not suitable for Gyms where staff assistance not available.
Pros
- Keyless locker room
- No batteries are required.
- Good combination locks have emergency override key access in the case of a forgotten code.
- Many combination locks can be managed by the user to set new codes to improve security.
- Saves on replacement keys or padlocks.
Cons
- Users can still forget their codes and may need staff help to override lock.
- If the combination lock does not have the scramble feature, nearby snoops can see the code on an open locker door while its in use.
Digital Locker Lock
A fantastic keyless locking option, with high tech solutions allowing for both shared use or single user mode and more. Digital lockers create a great aestheticly. Our suggestion is to ensure your lock has a manual key override, in the case of a total lock failure.
Pros
- No keys required making your lockers more user friendly.
- Some digital locker locks have automatic unlock timers, or even real time clocks, forcing shared environments to be fully available to all users at times you choose.
- Some digital locks have double-entry of codes, preventing accidental mis-entry and lockouts.
- Most digital locker locks have batteries that allow for thousands of uses.
- Huge range of customisation available, making your locker room truly function the way you need it to.
Cons
- Batteries need to be changed, this required regular maintainance and cost.
- Being electronic, warranties are often 1 or 2 years
- The costly depending on the features such as water proof IP rating, real time clock or Bluetooth connectivity.
