For many of our readers who have been involved with school security, the reports of new shootings are very upsetting, partly because some of the most obvious preventative measures were ignored. When I see videos of a criminal’s vehicle approaching a school, observed, recorded but yet unchallenged and I see doors propped open or left unlocked, I know somebody missed the point.
Even small security upgrades can have a big impact. Many relatively simple and affordable steps can be taken immediately to help protect students, faculty, and staff.
Since every facility is unique, school security solutions will vary depending on the site, the budget, and the school administration’s ability to approve critical aspects of school facility security.
Although the classroom door might represent the moment of truth in a facility maintenance plan, the planning begins with a coordinated overview of the situation, and the professional deployment of high quality, legal and appropriate security hardware.
A layered approach would start with perimeter security (likely video surveillance), with exterior doors remaining locked except for one main door, likely equipped with an intercom system to grant visitors into a secured vestibule for screening. Only then would they have access to classroom and other interior doors.
Along the way to creating the better solutions errors have been made, even if they were made with good intentions. There were and are a variety of door barricade solutions that have offered immediate solutions, while simultaneously creating other, perhaps more dangerous life safety conditions. Avoid any product that has not been tested and approved by the security industry’s code writing and product testing authorities.
The facts:
- There are over 98,000 public schools in the United States.
- These schools have more than 2.5 million classroom doors.
- Only 1 in 4 of those doors LOCK FROM THE INSIDE.
That means about 1.875 million doors are candidates for legal and logical classroom function locks.
The Sandy Hook Advisory Commission recommended in its final report that all classrooms have doors that can be locked from the inside. Evidence presented to the commission revealed that there has never been an event in which an active shooter breached a locked classroom door. With this rather compelling information, why is it such a challenge to implement lock upgrades that are almost guaranteed to save kids’ lives?
School Security Checklist
In Texas, a statewide Intruder Detection Audit program requires Texas public schools to undergo random inspections to identify weak access points. These guidelines may be used anywhere for other school districts to follow.
The following recommended steps pertain to locks and door hardware and are within the realm of services provided by the in-house or local commercial locksmith.
1. Conduct an audit of all doors. Look for the following:
PERIMETER DOORS: – Are they locked and secure? Are all components functioning properly? Check the door, frame, lock and door operator/power closer.
CLASSROOM DOORS: – Do the doors have locks that lock? – Can they be locked from the inside? – Are all components functioning properly? Again, check the door, frame, lock and door operator/power closer.
2. Conduct weekly sweeps of all doors to ensure proper function.
For the new school year, access control procedures should include exterior door sweeps (ensuring doors are closed and locked) at every instructional facility at least once each week while instruction is being conducted. Staff should be fully trained at the start of the school year and any time new hires start work.
3. Review and, if necessary, update access control policies and procedures.
A policy should be in place to ensure exterior doors are closed and locked, so that visitors can only enter the facility through primary entrances.
Staff should be been trained on visitor procedures, including what forms of identification are allowed and when and under what situations are visitors allowed to enter the building
Classroom instruction should be conducted with doors locked.
Form a multi-disciplinary team to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement of current practices or facility features and conditions.
4. Implement an intruder detection audit program.
Conduct random inspections to identify weak access points, as the State of Texas has implemented. These inspections remind me of the FDAI punchlist, but involve more than just the doors. I like that they’re random; random testing will really keep the team on its toes.
A smart selection of doors and hardware can help schools:
- Restrict access to authorized individuals
- Secure classroom and perimeter doors, and facilitate lockdown
- Ensure code compliance including ADA, emergency egress, and fire
- Reinforce exterior doors to protect against attackers or extreme weather
- Reduce air leakage with energy-efficient exterior openings
- Enhance facility cleanliness with antimicrobial coatings and touchless or low-touch solutions
- Protect expensive equipment, chemicals, medications, and sensitive data with access control
Lockdown Strategies
Lockdown strategies are an essential component of the school safety plan and vary depending on each facility’s unique requirements.
There are two types of lockdown:
Centralized Decision. Often called “Remote or Centralized Lockdown or Global Lockdown,” this method locks all doors campus-wide instantly with the push of a button. Centralized systems will require networking or other communications/control between the subject doors.
Decentralized Decision. Often called “Local Lockdown,” this method allows each teacher to decide whether to evacuate or lock their own door.
Frequently the actual solution will be a combination of both these strategies, according to the particular school’s requirements.
Following is a roundup of products that can be used to boost school security. Most lock manufacturers can provide code-compliant solutions.
Marks/AlarmLock/ Napco Tiered Options
Napco Security Group brands Marks USA, Alarm Lock, and Continental Access, offer a range of security solutions from enterprise access control systems, integrated with Lockdown/Notification App for Staff, to wireless networked access locks, or lockdown mechanical locks that lock from inside the classroom. All locks are Grade 1.
The company’s free and objective S.A.V.I. Self-Diagnostic System for schools helps them easily evaluate their own current security levels and vulnerabilities, and quantify best, next steps to improve any school or campus' defenses. SAVI provides the facts on security compiled from experts in all facets of the industry, in an easy electronic, self-scoring checklist format, presented objectively and without brand bias. It is designed to quickly enable you to make smarter, more informed security decisions, protect staff, students and stakeholders.
Lock down classrooms, offices, common areas, labs, with a key from safely inside with the Marks USA mechanical LocDown series, available in cylindrical and mortise models. These locks are locked with a key from the inside and retrofit standard locksets.
Stepping up to standalone electronic access control, the Alarm Lock Trilogy P/DL 4100/4500 Series provides local lockdown via button or fob. This activates small light indicators of front & back sides of door. There’s an override option for school administrators.
This lock can be installed in an hour and can be field converted into Wireless Networx Locks later with kit. In addition, locksmiths can easily add a new keyfob or panic button option to most new & existing Trilogys (3000 Series and above) and program to control "Lock Down" or "Remote Release" with one button.
For wireless network locks with global lockdown, Alarm Lock offers the Trilogy Networx P/DL6100, 6500, 7100 Series. Global Lockdown can be activated from the server or any individual access lock, in under 10 seconds.
This system is scalable by door, area, building or across a campus of buildings, new and legacy. It can be managed on-premises or remotely via web client or smart device – access, privileges, locks and doors can be controlled by time schedule, exception, etc.
One additional option is the Networx NetPanel & Wireless Keypad, which provides a small access control system with global lockdown. Top features also include global lockdown and passage from keypad or PC, schedules, 35k event log, request-to-exit, door ajar/kick-in, etc
More info: www.savischool.com
Corbin Russwin, SARGENT and Yale Classroom Locks
Corbin Russwin CL3300 locks, Sargent 11 line locks, and Yale 5400LN series cylindrical locks are available with classroom security functions that allow locking from inside the room, as are Corbin Russwin ML2000 , Sargent 8200 series , and Yale 8800 series mortise locks.
The CLX3352 is a Grade 1 double cylinder lockset that allows teachers to lock the outside lever from either side. It also lets them see which way to rotate the key to lock the door, which is very helpful in times of panic. Since teachers keep the keys, there’s no way students can lock them out. At the same time, egress always remains possible with the CLX3352’s standard anti-panic function.
Newly designed status or occupancy indicator options provide optimum clarity on the locked/unlocked status of a door, making it easy for teachers to quickly verify whether the door is locked in an emergency situation.
Corbin Russwin ED5000 series and Sargent 80 series exit devices are available with classroom security functions and security kits.
More info: www.corbinrusswin.com and www.sargentlock.com
BEST 9K Series Cylindrical Lock
BEST’s 9K cylindrical lock is compatible with many large format interchangeable cores (LFIC) and non-interchangeable core keying systems, regardless of brand.
Whether upgrading old hardware or fitting out a new facility, the 9K is an ideal solution, offering quick installation and enhanced safety. The 9K features a seamless, one-piece hardened steel alloy outside sleeve to protect functionality and ensure more reliable performance throughout the lock’s lifespan.
The BEST 9K Series with Intruder function enables teachers to secure classroom doors quickly from the inside during an emergency. Exterior locks still require specific keys, but the staff can secure any open room with a BEST lock from the inside.
It features a visual indicator on the inside that shows which way to turn the key to ensure a door is securely locked. This simple, yet significant marker, can make a big difference during the intensity of a school lockdown or shelter-in-place order.
More info: bestaccess.com
Precision 2110VI Exit Device
Designed for high occupancy arenas including classrooms, auditoriums or gymnasiums, the Precision 2110VI exit device provides code compliant safe egress with fast and efficient security lockdown.
The 2110VI incorporates the ANSI “10” function, also referred to as the “Intruder Function” with Lock/Unlock status and directional indicator integrated into the housing and contains reflective material that may be seen in low light conditions. It boasts an embossed directional indicator that offers quarter-turn (90°) activation to enable faster lock down.
The Precision 2110VI is available as a complete exit device or as a retrofit field conversion kit.
More info: www.bestaccess.com
Allegion
Schlage L Series or ND Series mechanical locks in classroom security, entrance/office, and storeroom functions provide the best options for classroom lockdown. Schlage classroom security conversion kits provide a low-cost means to upgrade a classroom door's functionality and security without having to replace the entire lock.
Mechanical Locks: Locks with visual indicators provide an at-a-glance verification of the locked/unlocked status of the door from inside of the room. Available on both Von Duprin exit devices and Schlage L Series locks.
Electronic solutions include the Schlage AD-300 networked hardwired and AD-400 networked wireless locks with classroom/storeroom function can be locked or unlocked by a command from the access control system, door schedule or toggle credential. Inside lever always opens door for immediate egress.
Schlage LE mortise and NDE cylindrical locks are electronic versions of the traditional Schlage L and ND Series locks. They can be used to easily upgrade classroom locks and are available for use with existing networked EAC systems or Allegion’s Engage™ web and mobile apps.
Engage™ Web and Mobile apps - Cloud-based web and mobile apps that allow management of the locks from a computer, tablet or phone for instant lockdown.
Codelocks
CODELOCKS manufactures a variety of locksets and security accessories at several price points with a variety of features. I’ve installed them on classrooms, and they have held up very well over the long haul. An advantage is that they are field repairable with replacement parts readily available, since educational facilities are somewhat harsh environments.
The CL5210/CL5250 is a heavy-duty electronic standalone lock suitable for use in high-traffic applications that features a conventional 3x4 button layout for instant familiarity, providing quick programming. With 4-, 5- or 6-digit user codes and up to 10, one-time user codes, these locks are particularly suitable for educational environments. Panic Kits for fast and easy egress in an emergency are available. Additionally, the CL5210 holds a UL-certified maximum three-hour fire rating and can be used without negatively impacting the fire rating of an opening.
The CL610 and CL650 are heavy-duty tubular mortise latch locks. The locks allow for single-code entry and the outside lever handle will retract the latch after a correct code is entered. The spring-loaded latchbolt will lock automatically when the door is closed. Typically, most mechanical digital locks require the lock to be removed from the door or partly disassembled to change the code. However, the CL600 range incorporates the new Quick Code system allowing on-door code change in seconds. Panic Kits for fast and easy egress in an emergency are available. Additionally, these locks can be used on any fire-rated opening without negatively impacting its fire certification and safety.
The CL5510 and CL5550 Smart Locks offer flexibility and convenience by offering advanced programming and access methods including a pushbutton code, RFID card or smartphone. The CL5510 and CL5550 are also available with NetCode™ technology that allows for temporary access through date- and time-sensitive codes. NetCode can be generated quickly and easily via the C3 Smart App, the online Codelocks Customer Portal, or by using the Codelocks Customer API. Program locks via your smartphone, generate and send codes for easy access and issue smart cards for alternative entry. Audit trail data can be downloaded. The lock does not require a Wi-Fi connection for operation. Tubular Latch, Mortise Lock and Panic Kits for fast and easy egress in an emergency are available. Additionally, these locks hold a UL-certified maximum three-hour fire rating and can be used without negatively impacting the fire rating of an opening.
More info: www.codelocks.com
Tim O'Leary
Tim O'Leary is a security consultant, trainer and technician who has also been writing articles on all areas of locksmithing & physical security for many years.
