Safes

Due to the importance of the values it protects, choosing a suitable safe is of great importance. It is a strategic decision to ensure the preservation of what matters most in your home or office. Let’s explore the variety offered by the world of safes and the crucial importance of carefully selecting your defense against the unexpected.

What are the different levels of security and classification for safes?

Because it is at the heart of the matter, the security of safes is a crucial element in the choice of any valuable property protection device. In this perspective, various criteria are used to assess the reliability of a safe, thus ensuring peace of mind for users.

Security Assessments

Security assessments play a central role in selecting an appropriate safe. These assessments are based on rigorous criteria, some of which are defined by renowned certification. One of these, A2P, an abbreviation for “Assurance Prévention Protection” (Assurance Prevention Protection), was registered in 1985. Issued by the CNPP (National Center for Prevention and Protection), this certification attests to the resistance of a safe to burglary attempts. Comprehensive tests guarantee a quality product, crafted through rigorously controlled manufacturing processes. Therefore, opting for an A2P certified safe ensures optimal protection of valuable assets.

Fire resistance

In addition to protection against burglary, fire resistance is an essential characteristic of safes. The protection of important documents, whether in paper or digital format, depends on the safe’s ability to withstand the high temperatures generated during a fire. Protection times vary from 30 to over 120 minutes, depending on the material to be protected. This specification is crucial, especially in preserving sensitive documents and valuable items during unforeseen events.

security standards

Security standards, such as the European standard EN 1143-1, guide the process of evaluating and certifying safes. Introduced to ensure high-quality standards, this specific standard establishes strict criteria for burglary resistance. It helps standardize certification practices and provides a reliable reference for consumers concerned about the security of their property.

Certifications

In addition to national certifications such as A2P, the German institute ECB-S (European Certification Body for Security) also plays a crucial role in the security industry. The ECB-S label attests to the quality of armored safes, fireproof cabinets, secure spaces, and security locks. Opting for an ECB-S certified product ensures reliable protection and meets the most demanding European standards. In summary, compliance with these standards and certifications represents a guarantee of confidence for users seeking to secure their valuable assets optimally.

What are the different types of locks for a safe?

Armor alone is not enough to protect your valuables. The lock is a central element in the operation of a safe and should be chosen based on the intended use. Among the available options, several types of locks can be distinguished, each offering particular advantages:

Electronic locks

Electronic locks provide a modern and convenient means for depositing and withdrawing items from your safe. They can be opened using one or more codes, thereby offering increased security. The ease of code changes and the ability to set complex combinations make them a preferred choice for those who prioritize technology in managing their assets.

Key Locks

Key locks remain a classic and reliable option. The safe is locked and unlocked using a secure key, and the choice between a conventional key or a high-security key depends on your preferences. This solution is particularly suitable for those who prefer the simplicity and reliability of traditional mechanisms. However, some safe manufacturers have strict policies regarding the keys to their safes, making it sometimes difficult to obtain a duplicate key in case the original is lost.

Combination locks

Combination locks offer an interesting alternative, allowing the safe to be opened using dial counters to select a predefined combination. This method combines the convenience of a combination with the robust mechanics of disc locks, providing enhanced security.

Planned installation

Before making your choice, it is crucial to consider the type of safe you are looking for and the intended installation. Each type of lock has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the ideal safe will depend on your specific security needs. Take the time to carefully evaluate each option to choose the safe that best suits your situation.

Size and Capacity of a Safe

Small Safes

When it comes to choosing a safe, it is essential to consider the nature and volume of the items you plan to store. Small safes, designed to be walled or placed, are perfect for volumes below 40 liters. Starting with a storage capacity of 10 liters, these safes are ideal for protecting valuable items such as jewelry, checkbooks, firearms (with the appropriate permit), diplomas, or passports. Additionally, their ease of concealment makes them a practical option for those seeking maximum discretion, all at a reduced price compared to larger safes.

Large Safes

If your volume requirements are larger, a medium-sized safe with a storage capacity ranging from 40 to 120 liters might be the ideal solution. These safes can accommodate important documents, small computer equipment, digital media, or any other valuable items you want to keep secure.

For those seeking an even more spacious solution, large safes offer a capacity of up to 1500 liters for the largest models. In addition to their generous size, these safes provide a high level of security.

How to Install a Safe?

Safes come in different types of installations, each offering specific features to meet the varied needs of users. Among the available options, there are mainly freestanding safes and wall safes.

Floor Safes

Free Standing safes (or fixed safes) are multifunctional solutions installed on the floor. They provide easy access while ensuring effective protection for valuable items.

In-wall Safes

On the other hand, walled safes, sometimes called built-in safes, offer a more discrete and integrated approach to space security while preserving the security of a reinforced environment. These safes are installed in walls, providing increased protection by limiting accessibility to the wall of the safe. The essential aspect of the strength of these safes comes from their integration into the structure of the house or the building. This configuration enhances the safe’s security by limiting potential points of attack, thus offering optimal protection for the valuable items it contains.

Adapt to your need

In conclusion, whether opting for a freestanding safe for convenience or a built-in safe for enhanced security, the choice depends on the specific needs of the user and the characteristics of the items to be secured. Each type of safe offers a reliable and suitable solution to preserve the confidentiality and security of the most valuable assets.

Certifications and Insurance

Professional Standards

For a range of professional safes to be eligible for insurance, it must be certified according to the European standard EN 1143. The “European Standard,” identifiable by the EN symbol, encompasses a set of standards for various products across Europe. These harmonized standards simplify the marketing and transparency of articles on the continent, ensuring a predetermined level of requirements. To verify the compliance of your safe, a certification plate must be present inside the door.

Individual Standards

For individuals and small businesses wishing to insure their safes, the EN 14450 standard is essential, just like for professional safes. Since the assigned class determines the amount reimbursed, opting for a highly resistant safe, corresponding to a high class, increases the reimbursable amount. For example, a Class 0 safe, representing the lowest certification level for professional safes, allows for a reimbursement of up to 8000 euros, while a Grade VI safe, offering significantly reinforced security, allows for a reimbursement of up to 300,000 €.

Digital Standards

Additional specifications may be necessary depending on the content of the safe. For example, if you store digital media, the safe must comply with the ETL standard. The lock also plays a crucial role.

Insurable value

However, it should be noted that the “insurable value” actually corresponds to a reimbursable amount on a complete installation evaluated by your insurer. The mere possession of the safe does not automatically guarantee the insurance of its contents. This value is part of an overall calculation of the security of your installation, which is an important consideration.

Maintenance of Safes and Locks

Safe installation

These essential security devices, essential for the protection of assets, inevitably undergo wear and tear due to daily use, exposure to humidity, and temperature variations. To ensure their proper functioning over time, it is imperative to install them away from a humid area or a heat source (away from a home heater or fireplace, for example) and give them periodic maintenance. This process is not limited to the simple repair of visible damage but includes preventive actions to anticipate potential issues.

Lock Lubrication

It is crucial to emphasize that regular lubrication of locks is a fundamental step in maintaining the efficiency of the locking mechanism. Locks, exposed to dust and humidity, can accumulate over time, compromising their ability to provide reliable protection. The periodic application of a suitable lubricant reduces friction, prevents corrosion, and promotes smooth opening and closing operations.

Cleaning Your Safe

Simultaneously, paying meticulous attention to cleaning the inside and outside of the safe is equally important. Dust, residues, and humidity can accumulate over time, potentially harmful to internal mechanisms. Regular cleaning, done with suitable products, maintains a clean and dry environment inside the safe, thus preserving the quality of the items stored within.

Visual Inspection

As part of this cleaning, it is recommended to visually check the overall condition of the safe. Special attention should be given to any signs of deterioration, such as cracks, deformations, or areas of abnormal wear. This vigilance helps quickly identify any emerging problems and take the necessary measures to preserve the integrity of the safe and the security of the items it contains.