Protecting valuable equipment from theft, vandalism and tampering begins with the right hardware. A poorly designed handle can become a liability. In unauthorized user can open it, they may be able to access items or equipment stored behind the handle. Fortunately, padlocking handles are available.
Padlocking handles are designed specifically to support a padlock. As shown in the adjacent photo, they feature two ring-shaped holes: one on the handle itself and another on the base. When aligned, you can place a padlock through these holes to prevent the handle from rotating. You’ll have to unlock and remove the padlock to rotate the handle.
#1) Superior Security
Padlocking handles offer a superior level of security when compared to traditional locking handles. Locking handles feature an internal locking mechanism. Using brute force, a thief or nefarious individual may be able to break them. Padlocking handles leverage an external padlock. Padlocks, of course, feature thick shackles that are very difficult to break using brute force.
#2) Flexibility
Padlocking handles are highly flexible. They allow you to choose the padlock that’s best suited for your needs. A storage cabinet in a commercial building may only require a basic padlock. If you’re planning to use the padlocking handle outdoors, on the other hand, you may want to choose a more rugged, weather-resistant padlock.
#3) Lower Replacement Cost
Another benefit of padlocking handles is a lower replacement cost. If the padlock becomes damaged or heavily worn, you can replace it. Padlocks are inexpensive and easy to replace. If a traditional locking handle becomes damaged or heavily worn, you’ll have to replace the entire handle, which will likely cost more money and time.
#4) Visual Confirmation
A benefit of padlocking handles that often goes unnoticed is visual confirmation. After securing them with a padlock, you can see they are locked. The shackle fully attached to the padlock’s body indicates it’s locked. Traditional locking handles may not offer such visual confirmation. As a result, you may accidentally leave them unlocked.
#5) Keyed or Combination
With a padlocking handle, you can choose between a keyed or combination locking solution. Padlocks are available in different styles, such as keyed or combination. Keyed padlocks require a key to unlock, whereas combination padlocks require a combination. Regardless, you can choose a padlock with your preferred locking solution.
#6) Available In Different Materials and Finishes
Finally, padlocking handles are available in different materials and finishes. Common materials include cast steel and stainless steel. Common finishes include polished, powder-coated and zinc-plated. Keep in mind that padlocking handles are often made of multiple materials. One material may be used for the handle itself, while another material is used for the escutcheon.