It is very important when ordering your door hardware to understand the grading levels to meet your building's security criteria.

Grade 1 is the strongest and most secure locks in the industry. Grade 1 hardware is designed for commercial security and for high traffic environments including schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Grade 1 hardware is recommended for exterior doors and higher populated entry points, as well as high-security and high-usage areas – cash rooms, payroll offices, etc.

Grade 2 locks are recommended for commercial applications with standard to medium traffic flow where forced entry is less of a risk. Many commercial office buildings use Grade 2 hardware for interior offices, restrooms, and storage areas.

Grade 3 is lower rated security. These locks still meet ANSI/BHMA’s stringent criteria and are generally sufficient for lower security, and lower traffic interior applications.