When overseeing construction projects, it’s imperative for builders to ensure that protective measures meet rigorous performance standards. Certifying external barriers like doors to Loss Prevention Standard (LPS) 1175 testing with Secure Rating 3 (SR3) approval confirms that advanced security requirements have been met.
But what exactly does an SR3 rating entail, and why should developers prioritise SR3-grade security doors when possible? Understanding SR classifications provides clarity on realistic attack resistance expectations.
Published in the UK by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) in 2006 after extensive industry consultations, LPS 1175 categorises the timed breach resistance capabilities of physical security barriers when confronted by aggressive manual attacks. This enables builders to demonstrate security due diligence based on realistic, timed tests.
Within LPS 1175, LPCB awards Secure Ratings from 1 to 8 (SR1 to SR8) based on how long doors can withstand a physical assault from tools an opportunist or determined criminal may feasibly use. For instance:
External barriers like metal doors attaining an SR3 classification following LPS 1175 testing can reliably protect assets from 5 minutes of aggressive manual tampering by an intruder. This enables developers to appropriately match SR graded barriers to risks across facilities accessed by people, vehicles, and goods.
Achieving an SR3 rating under the LPS 1175 standard is a significant benchmark for building security, offering a robust level of protection against forced entry. This rating is particularly relevant for external barriers such as doors, which are critical in preventing unauthorised access to sensitive commercial, institutional, and residential buildings.
An SR3 certification signifies that a door or physical barrier has been rigorously tested and proven to withstand a dedicated attack using a specific set of tools for up to 5 minutes. This level of resistance is designed to deter opportunistic burglars equipped with tools that could be used to force entry.
Additionally, the importance of SR3-rated barriers extends beyond their immediate protective function:
For building owners and occupants, SR3-rated doors and windows offer peace of mind, knowing that the building’s entry points have a verified resistance to physical attacks. This assurance is critical for facilities that require heightened security due to the nature of their operations or the value of their assets.
The SR3 rating is recognized by UK police initiatives such as Secured by Design, which promotes security standards in building design. Compliance with these standards can influence building certification and insurance assessments, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums due to the reduced risk of break-ins.
The clear benchmark provided by the SR3 rating aids in the strategic planning of a building’s overall security infrastructure. Knowing the resistance capability of doors and windows allows for the effective integration of additional security measures, such as surveillance systems and alarms.
Developers have an obligation to validate security provisions as fit for purpose through testing that replicates criminal attacks. Here at Bradbury Group, we offer doors that adhere to LPS 1175 SR2 to SR4 standards, such as our M2M2 and M2M4 steel security doors. This proves their ability to withstand attacks from high-impact power tools like rams, sledgehammers, and cutting equipment.
Consult our security experts today about choosing security-rated steel doors for your unique facilities.
