The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recognized ABLOY USA’s high-security PL340 padlock for meeting regulations as a locking device for securing explosives magazines. Only padlocks that are constructed with at least five disc tumblers and a case-hardened shackle that has a diameter of at least three-eighths of an inch are substantially equivalent to the regulations of 27 CFR 555, Subpart K.
ATF is best known for investigating and preventing federal offenses involving the unlawful use, manufacture and possession of firearms and explosives, acts of arson and bombings, and illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco products. The agency also is responsible for the regulation – via licensing, the sale, possession and transportation – of firearms, ammunition and explosives in interstate commerce.
“To my knowledge, we are the only security lock company that has had ATF inspect and verify their cylinder design,” says Shayne Spears, ABLOY’s vertical-market manager for Oil & Gas and Mining. “This validation is important for explosive safety and compliance personnel in the mining, blasting, wireline and construction industries.”
The ATF determination acknowledges that the PL340 is effectively pickproof because of the capabilities of ABLOY PROTEC2 CLIQ, a hybrid system that combines industry-leading mechanical disc technology with electronic components. Spears says the specific information that ATF requested should reassure any potential user who is considering CLIQ, PROTEC2 or any older key system used in the PL340, which was introduced in 2001.
“Having this critical determination clarifies the overall picture for end users,” Spears says. “Our PL340, PL342, PL350 and PL362 padlocks can be confidently used to secure various explosive types, such as dynamite, blasting caps, display fireworks, black powder or ANFO (ammonium nitrate/fuel oil).”
The PL340 and PL342 series meet and exceed grade 5 ASTM standards, while the PL350, and PL362 is grade 6. These models provide maximum resistance to physical attack because of the case-hardened, free-spinning protection plate that prevents drill bits from penetrating the lock. The unique rotating disc cylinder system ensures that it’s pickproof and provides for a vast range of comprehensive master key options. The padlocks are equipped with a 10 mm or 15 mm diameter case-hardened boron steel shackle. More info: www.abloyusa.com
