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156 
security Proper padlocks
Page 85
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by Inspector K. W. Norman,
Crime Prevention Section, New Scotland Yard.
• Perimeter entrances, especially those comprising double-leaf gates or doors, are usually secured by means of a padlock. Unfortunately, the type of padlock used for this purpose is not always suited to the security risk involved and little thought is given to the matter of selection of such a lock.
Once you have read this why not take a look at your padlocks. They may need replacement.
There are two main types of padlock. The first and most common type is the open shackle padlock. In this type there is a fairly large space between the shackle and the body of the lock and this space renders the lock vulnerable to attack. However, there is no reason why an open shackle padlock should not be used on the interior of an opening to resist pressure applied externally and directed inwards.
Close shackle type
The second type of padlock and the one most suited to securing perimeter entrances where a high security standard is required, is the close shackle type. As its name implies, the shackle is fitted closely to the body of the lock and when passed through the staple of the locking bar, improves the security of the lock as a whole.
Besides the type of shackle employed in a padlock, there are other points of vulnerability. Suffice it to say, the shackle should be case hardened and the hinge protected. The body of the lock should be made of hardened steel and of rivetless construction. The quality should be such that not less than five levers or six pins or sliders are employed and its weight should be in excess of 1 lb.
A high quality close shackle padlock will cost in the region of £5 and upwards but when one considers the value of the property guarded, this is not an excessive price to pay for security.
Locking bar
Naturally, a high-security padlock must be used in conjunction with a locking bar of at least a comparable standard and must be firmly secured to the door or gate by either welding, concealed screws, clutch-headed screws or coach bolts. In the latter case, the nuts must be on the interior and well burred over. A locking bar which should be purchased as a matching pair with the padlock, will cost upwards of £5. The locking bar must compare in quality with the lock used.
The final point requiring attention is to ensure that the gate or door is secured to the hinges—elementary perhaps, but a point which can be overlooked.
Crime prevention officers at your local police station will be happy to look at your individual problems!