Lock Functions 101

Automatically lock function

Classic keyed locks can be ordered with a variety of functions to meet your needs. Whether you're a commercial or residential customer, these functions go a long way toward providing the type of security you need. There are six common functions available, and we are going to give a simple explanation of each to help you find the right solution. It should be noted that all of these functions freely allow for egress at all times. We hope you find this information helpful. If you are still unsure of which is the best fit, we will be happy to discuss your needs and assist you with making your selection.

1. Passage: Passage function is just as the name suggests. It allows for free passage through a door. These knobs or leversets do not have a lock cylinder. No lock, no key, just turn the knob and open. These are for opening and closing doors that do not need to be locked.

   
   

2. Privacy: These are the locks you typically see on restrooms, bedrooms, etc. These locks are engaged using a button or a thumb turn from within when the room in question is occupied. They can be unlocked from the inside either by the thumb turn or

   by turning the interior knob/lever, but can also be unlocked from the outside using a tool. The tool needed can vary from lock to lock.

   
   

3. Entrance/Office:

   These locks have a button or thumbturn on the interior and a keyhole on the exterior. When the button or thumbturn is engaged, the door must be opened either externally by a key, or internally by using the knob or lever.

   
   

4. Classroom: Classroom function locks have a keyhole on the exterior, but no button or thumbturn on the interior. This means the only way to lock or unlock the door is by using a key on the exterior side of the lock.

   
   

5. Classroom Security: Classroom Security is similar to Classroom function but includes an additional safety feature in the event of an emergency. As with Classroom function, Classroom Security function is locked and unlocked with a key on the door's exterior. The extra safety feature is in the form of an additional keyhole on the interior. This enables a person with the key to lock the door from the inside as well. This is commonly used in situations like an active shooter scenario where it may become necessary to secure onesself in a locked room. If exiting a room to lock the door from the outside would pose a safety risk, Classroom Security function is designed to mitigate that risk.

   
   

6. Storeroom: Storeroom function is used for doors that should never be left unsecured. There is no button or thumb turn on the interior of the lock as the lock is designed to remain engaged at all times. To open from the outside, a key must be inserted in the keyhole and turned. The latch retracts as the key is turned, and resumes a locked state when the key is returned to its starting position for removal. These are commonly used on utility and machine rooms, supply closets, etc. If you have a room that requires a storeroom function lock, it is good practice to add additional hardware such as a door closer to ensure the door latches after it is used.