A major concern for detention and correctional administrative officials is the reliable operation of locks used in their facilities. These test methods aid in assigning a level of physical security and performance to locks for swinging door assemblies.

These test methods evaluate the resistance of a lock to attacks using battering devices, prying devices, and fire. These test methods also evaluate the performance of a lock under simulated operating conditions. These test methods do not provide a measure of the resistance or performance of a lock subjected to attack by chemical agents, ballistics, explosives, or other extreme methods of attack. These test methods do not measure the resistance or performance of the device when subjected to environmental elements such as rain, snow, or wind-carried dust or sand. Where such elements may be a factor, the manufacturer should be consulted for proper application.

The primary purpose of these test methods is to approximate the levels of abuse and operating conditions to which locks are subjected in detention and correctional institutions. The desired result of these test methods will provide a measure of assurance of protection to the correctional personnel, public, and inmates.

It is recommended that the detention/correctional facility administration provide adequate training, supervision, and preventative maintenance programs to enable door assemblies to function as intended throughout the expected service life.