The Long Read
A new era of door lock standards
The BSI introduced four new tools to test locks against recent threats, especially thermal attacks – Brisant Secure was ready and waiting…
The fight against burglars never stops. They’re always finding new ways to get past locks, and when they do, it’s our job to slam the door shut (quite literally!). Last year, thermal manipulation and lock twisting shook the industry. The new break-in methods exposed alarming security gaps we weren’t aware of. At that point, responding to these new threats became a “we” problem.
To our relief, the British Standards Institution (BSI) acted fast. Updates such as the PAS24 and the 3-Star Kitemark were promptly made and raised the bar for lock security. Moving forward, 3-Star locks have to withstand the old and the new attack techniques. For installers, locksmiths, and fabricators, it’s a double-edged sword. Invest in the opportunity to take centre stage, or risk being left in the cold.
What’s changed? The new standards in door lock security
The updated PAS24:2022+A1:2024 was published in September 2024, and the previous version was withdrawn in September 2024. It’s a tweak to the rulebook and a tough new test to stop aggressive break-in methods.
The BSI introduced four new tools to test locks against recent threats, especially thermal attacks. Here’s what they have to say about the updated regulations:
“Amended in 2024 to keep up with changing criminal methodologies, PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 details how to test and identify residential doorsets and windows that offer an enhanced security performance against opportunistic burglars.”
In simple terms: if your lock isn’t built to withstand this new level of punishment, your door won’t pass.
The updated 3-Star Kitemark (TS007-1) is also aligned with these stricter standards. Now, all locks tested under its umbrella must meet the new security benchmarks. The result? Homeowners get greater protection, and professionals have a superior product to sell.
Ultion: Ahead of the game
For Brisant Secure, the company behind Ultion Locks, the new standards weren’t a surprise. Always one step ahead, Ultion had already worked on the solution: the Ultion 3-Star PLUS lock with ALPS. The Always Locked Protection System is a forward-thinking answer to burglars’ latest tricks. Alex Dutton, Sales Director at Brisant Secure, sums it up: “Like the BSI, Brisant-Secure is always looking to be one step ahead of new attack methods, which is why we’re the first to have a lock successfully tested and accredited with the new tools. The process from design to having sellable locks is long, and not one we’d want to start when the changes were first announced.”
What it means for installers and locksmiths
So, what does this all mean for you? We think the updated standards are a wake-up call. In times of uncertainty, homeowners will look to professionals to guide them. This is your chance to use your expertise and recommend locks that will keep your clients secure.
The bottom line: Be ready
Security standards don’t change overnight, but when they do, they mark a milestone. The updated PAS24 and 3-Star Kitemark are tough as nails and will help keep homes safe against tomorrow’s threats.
Brisant Secure’s ALPS technology is the first to pass these brutal new tests.
For installers, locksmiths, and fabricators, the message is clear: now’s the time to get on board with the latest innovations. The burglars aren’t waiting. Fortunately, neither are we.
E: hello@ultion.co.uk
www.ultion-lock.co.uk/ultion-alps/
