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A number of security products companies produce interconnected locks which are suitable for a variety of commercial applications. Interconnected locks have several advantages for commercial use.

Interconnected locks are locks which combine both a standard cylindrical lock/latch mechanism with a deadbolt. The mechanism appears to be two separate components: a deadbolt lock and a cylindrical lock. To unlock a door from the outside, an interconnected lock requires inserting keys into both locking mechanisms. However, from the inside, both the cylindrical lock bar and the deadbolt lock can be released simultaneously with one single motion.

Interconnected locks make a quick exit possible, which is critically important during an emergency situation. Double-Locking mechanisms have the added security of re-locking when they close. This is particularly advantageous when an emergency requires the evacuation of an entire building. Owners and tenants can have peace of mind that the building’s contents will remain secure even when no one is inside the building. Because only one motion from the inside opens both the regular lock and the deadbolt, the interconnected lock is particularly advantageous for a number of commercial building applications, including:

1) Commercial buildings which serve as residences for the elderly or sick, such as nursing homes. Since only one motion is required to release both locks, precious seconds can be saved when the elderly or the sick or their caregivers are required to exit a room quickly in an emergency, such as a fire. In buildings which primarily serve elderly or the infirmed, it is recommended that interconnected locks with lever-style releases be installed. Lever releases are typically easier for elderly people to operate, especially in a situation where panic may easily take over.

2) Schools and daycare centers. Commercial buildings such as these must be able to provide security for children, plus limited access to children from outside the building. Interconnected locks allow classroom doors to remain locked to the public from the outside. However, from the inside, doors can be unlocked with relative ease by an adult or by children, with both the cylindrical lock latch and deadbolt releasing simultaneously. The door automatically locks when it closes. This feature means that the door does not have to be manually re-locked each time someone exits.

3) Storerooms. Rooms that are used for storage, janitor’s supplies closets, etc. don’t necessarily require a heavy-duty locking mechanism, but still need to be locked when necessary. An interconnected lock discourages burglary and vandalism, while making a quick exit from inside possible without a key. When installed, the door can only be opened from outside with a key, limiting its accessibility to authorized personnel only. The latch engages automatically every time the door shuts.

Jenny Schweyer is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest.