Fail Secure vs Fail Safe Locks: What’s the Difference?

For building owners and property managers, understanding the difference between fail secure vs. fail safe locks is critical to the safety of both their staff and their business. Doors with fail secure locks can’t be accessed when the power is cut, while doors with fail safe locks can. It’s important to note that installing a fail safe or fail secure lock determines who can enter your building during a black out, but does not affect people’s ability to evacuate during an emergency. All locks are designed so people can exit a space whenever they want, regardless of whether the power’s flowing.

Fail Safe Locks

Fail safe and fail secure locks each have a default setting: open or closed. Because they operate magnetically, fail safe locks are open by default. Most feature an armature plate attached to the door and a high-powered magnet attached to the frame. The flow of electricity activates the magnet, which holds the door in place. Power is controlled by a keypad, card reader, or electronic sensor connected to the magnet. When activated, the lock cuts power, allowing the door to swing open. If the building loses electricity, the magnet powers down and allows people to enter freely.

As stated above, fail safe locks don’t create safe escape routes. Instead, they create access routes for emergency crews, allowing them to access your building in order to locate and rescue injured people. You’ll find them mostly on primary entry points, stairwell doors, and fire exits.

Fail Secure Locks

Fail secure locks are closed by default. They operate via an electric strike plate mounted to the door. The latch projects into a movable cavity called a keeper, which holds the door closed until the lock is activated by a code, keycard, or smartphone. As soon as the signal’s received, the keeper pivots outward, releasing the bolt and opening the door.

However, the bolt only retracts when its circuitry is powered on. As soon as the door is closed, power is cut and the bolt automatically snaps back into place. So in the event the building loses power, the lock still prevents unauthorized visitors from gaining entry. This locking mechanism only works in one direction however. It stops people from entering without the right credentials, but doesn’t stop them from exiting freely.

Companies rely on fail secure locks to protect sensitive areas and valuable assets in the event of a power shortage. They’re often found in server rooms, data centers, storage facilities, research laboratories, and stockrooms. Fail secure locks are also installed on fire doors in order to contain fire and smoke ‒ for the safety of your staff, assets, and property.

Servicing Fail Secure vs. Fail Safe Locks

Both fail secure and fail safe locks require regular maintenance in order to carry out their basic functions. All locks are vulnerable to dirt, corrosion, loose wires, worn circuitry, inadequate power, and mechanical deterioration. Regular inspections allow us to identify issues before they escalate and potentially jeopardize the security of your business. For more information, contact your local Vortex service team today!