Understanding Cylinder Security Standards, Tests and Certifications

For trade professionals involved in managing security, specifying the right cylinder lock isn’t just about functionality; it’s about meeting industry standards, ensuring compliance, and protecting your clients’ assets.  According to the latest Crime Survey for England and Wales by the Office for National Statistics, 67% of domestic burglaries involve entry through the front of the property.

With rising break-in techniques like cylinder snapping, bumping, and drilling, the BSI 3 Star Kitemark under TS007 has become the benchmark for high-security locks. Here’s what trade professionals need to know.

Key Industry Standards that need to be met:

PAS24:2022

Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 24:2022 is a UK security standard for doors and windows, ensuring they can resist unauthorised access. This standard involves rigorous testing to assess resistance to both manual attacks and simulated burglary attempts. It is often specified in social housing and commercial builds to enhance security.

Building Regulations Part Q

Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations mandates that new residential developments must have secure doors and windows to resist physical attacks by burglars. This regulation ensures that all new homes are built with security in mind, providing a baseline level of protection against unauthorised access.

Secured by Design (SBD)

Secured by Design is an initiative by the UK police that sets a police-preferred specification for security products. Products that meet SBD standards have been independently tested and certified to deter or prevent crime. This accreditation is highly regarded and often recommended for reducing burglary risk.

In scenarios where these standards apply, using a  3-star-rated Cylinder Lock is not just recommended but essential to meet the required security levels and ensure compliance with these stringent standards.

The British Standard 3621 sets standards for lock security under attack, such as drilling and picking, as well as product design and functionality standards, such as bolt length.

BS 3621 applies to mortice deadlocks, euro deadlocks, sash locks and cylinder locks and locks that are all operable from either end, ensuring security from both sides of the door.

With 67% of burglars entering homes through the front door, Locks are the first line of defence. Yet, many UK homeowners don’t realise their locks might not meet their insurance requirements. BS3621 locks could be the difference between a secured home and a rejected insurance claim.

What Makes a Cylinder BS3621 Certified?

A cylinder lock itself can't be BS3621 certified — the BS3621 certification applies to a complete lock assembly, not just the cylinder. However, the cylinder plays a crucial role in helping a lock meet BS3621 requirements.

Here's what makes a complete lock (including the cylinder) BS3621 certified:

1. The lock must be key-operated from both inside and outside.
   • No thumbturns on the inside — both sides must require a key.
2. The lock must include a deadbolt with a minimum throw (typically 20mm).
3. The lock must resist forced entry techniques, including:
   • Drilling
   • Picking
   • Sawing
   • Manipulation
4. Cylinder security matters — the cylinder used must be:
   • Anti-pick
   • Anti-drill
   • Anti-bump
   • Snap-resistant (in newer updates like BS3621:2007 onwards)
5. The entire lock assembly (case + cylinder) must be tested and certified together by an accredited body like the British Standards Institution (BSI) and bear the kitemark.

The BS EN 1303: 2005 classifies lock Cylinders based on eight categories, including use, durability, door mass, fire resistance, safety, corrosion and temperature resistance, key-related security, and attack resistance.

When it comes to ensuring that door security meets industry standards, there are two main routes to compliance. Each option has its own set of advantages and considerations, making it important to choose the right solution based on your specific needs and preferences. Below, we outline the pros and cons of both approaches to help you make an informed decision. 

The Publicly Available Specification is overseen by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and provides testing standards for the security performance of windows and doors when under attack. Within this, the performance of the door set, including door hardware, is thoroughly tested.

TS007 makes it easy to improve door security by mixing and matching different locks and hardware. This gives locksmiths and installers flexible ways to reach the highest security rating (three stars).

The standard sets tough security requirements but doesn’t force one specific solution. You can either:

Upgrade just the lock Cylinder

Or use a stronger Cylinder along with reinforced door handles and hardware.

See the below table to help in identifying the possible star options:

There are two ways to achieve the required 3 star under TS007 standards:

We understand the importance of keeping customers' doors secure, which is why our TS007-certified Cylinders are tested to the highest standards. Every product in our range is independently tested at UKAS-accredited facilities, so you can trust our locks to protect against break-ins.

Want to see for yourself? Here is an example relating to the Ultion TS007 3 Star showing the full test reports we provide for professional installers and specifiers who need verified performance.

For extra peace of mind, see our Featured Cylinders which have dual certification, meeting both TS007 and other key security standards. These featured products are perfect for projects where high levels of security is a must.

For extra peace of mind, see our Featured Cylinders which have dual certification, meeting both TS007 and other key security standards. These featured products are perfect for projects where high levels of security is a must.