DRAFT EAST AFRICAN STANDARD  DEAS 1155 :2023  
 
DRAFT EAST AFRICAN STANDARD  
Padlocks and padlock fittings — Specification  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY  
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
  
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 DEAS 1155:2023  
Foreword  
Development of the East A frican Standards has been necessitated by the need for harmonizing requirements 
governing quality of products and services in the East African Community. It is envisaged that through 
harmonized standardization, trade barriers that are encountered when good s and services are exchanged 
within the Community will be removed.  
In order to achieve this objective, the Community established an East African Standards Committee mandated 
to develop and issue East African Standards.   
The Committee is composed of repres entatives of the National Standards Bodies in Partner States, together 
with the representatives from the private sectors and consumer organizations. Draft East African Standards 
are circulated to stakeholders through the National Standards Bodies in the Pa rtner States. The comments 
received are discussed and incorporated before finalization of standards, in accordance with the procedures 
of the Community.  
East African Standards are subject to review, to keep pace with technological advances. Users of the Ea st 
African Standards are therefore expected to ensure that they always have the latest versions of the standards 
they are implementing .  
DEAS 1155:2023  was prepared by Technical Committee EASC/TC 035, Steel and steel products . DEAS 1155:2023  
Padlocks and padlock fit tings — Specification  
1 Scope  
This draft East Africa Standard specifies requirements, test methods and sampling of padlocks and 
padlock fittings used on buildings and general use. It covers performance and other requirements for 
dimension, strength, securi ty, durability, material and corrosion of padlocks and padlock fittings.  
The specifications cover environmental, operational and security requirements for padlocks. Included are 
function descriptions, cycle tests, operational tests, environmental tests, f orcing tests, and surreptitious 
entry tests.  
This specification describes and grades various levels of performance to provide users of the 
specification with criteria upon which to select suitable padlocks. Six levels of performance are described 
in this s pecification with Grade 1 the lowest and Grade 6 the highest.  
Tests described are laboratory tests and although they simulate field conditions as to attacks or the 
environment, they do not duplicate these conditions. Tests described are repeatable in the l aboratory.  
 
2  Normative references  
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced 
document (incl uding any amendments) applies.  
ISO 1456, Metallic and other inorganic coatings — Electrodeposited coatings of nickel, nickel plus 
chromium, copper plus nickel and of copper plus nickel plus chromium  
ISO 2081, Metallic and other inorganic coatings — Electro plated coatings of zinc with supplementary 
treatments on iron or steel  
ISO 19598, Metallic coatings — Electroplated coatings of zinc and zinc alloys on iron or steel with 
supplementary Cr(VI) -free treatment  
ISO 9227, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospher es — Salt spray tests  
ISO 24153, Random sampling and randomization procedures  
ISO 15201 , Zinc and zinc alloys — casting — Specifications  
ISO 11997 -1, Paints and varnishes — Determination of resistance to cyclic corrosion conditions — part 
1: wet (salt fog) /dry/humidity.  
 
3 Terms and definitions  
For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions shall apply . 
3.1 acceptance testing  
to assure by documented testing that a padlock meets specific tests of Specification as agreed to by the 
buye r and seller.  
3.2 bump key  
lock picking key with uniform steeples between cuts that is forced further into the lock via impact.  
 DEAS 1155:2023  
3.3 cam  
lock or cylinder component which transfers the rotational motion of a key or cylinder plug to the bolt works of a 
lock. 
3.4 case  
housing or body of a lock or latch.  
3.5 certified  
to assure by documented testing that a padlock meets all test requirements appropriate to its grading.  
3.6 clevis  
fastener attached to a padlock case or shackle for connection of a chain, designed  to prevent displacement of 
a padlock.  
3.7 cylinder  
complete operating unit which usually consists of the plug, shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer, a 
cam/tailpiece or other actuating device, and all other necessary operating parts.  
3.8 cylinder bittin g 
group of numbers that represent the bitting of a key or the tumblers, or both, of a lock or cylinder.  
3.9 decode  
to determine a key combination by physical measurement of a key or cylinder parts, or both.  
3.10 heel  
part of a padlock shackle that normally  is retained in the case when in the unlocked position.  
3.11 impression technique  
means of fitting a key directly to a locked cylinder by manipulating a blank in the keyway and cutting the blank 
where the tumblers have made marks.   
3.12 keyway  
opening in a  lock or cylinder that is shaped to accept a key bit or blade of a proper configuration.  
3.13 lock bumping  
picking technique that utilizes a configured key forcefully impacted into the keyway.  
3.14 padlock  
detachable and portable lock with a shackle that l ocks into its case. Components performing the same 
purpose of a shackle but differing in design are sometimes used instead of a shackle.  
3.15 pick  
to manipulate tumblers in a keyed lock mechanism through the keyway, without obvious damage, by means 
other t han the specifically designed key.  
3.16 plug  
part of a cylinder which contains the keyway, with tumbler chambers usually corresponding to those  
in the cylinder shell.  
3.17 plug retainer  
cylinder component that secures the plug in the shell.  
 DEAS 1155:2023  
3.18 pull bump  key 
lock picking key that must be pulled from the lock one space position between impacts.  
3.19 push bump key  
lock picking key that centers itself after each impact.  
3.20 rap  
to unlock a padlock shackle from its case by striking the case in order to disen gage the locking 
mechanism.  
3.21 removable cylinder  
cylinder that can be removed from a locking device by a key or tool, or both.  
3.22 shackle  
part of a padlock that passes through an opening in an object or fits around an object and is ultimately  
locked i nto the case.  
3.23 shroud  
material on a padlock body specifically added to protect the shackle from physical attack.  
3.24 tailpiece  
actuator attached to or part of the rear of the cylinder.  
3.25 toe  
part of a padlock shackle that is normally released from the case in the unlocked position.  
3.26 tumbler  
movable obstruction of varying size and configuration in a lock or cylinder that makes direct contact 
with the key or another tumbler and prevents an incorrect key or torqueing device from activating the 
lock or other mechanism.  
 
4 Requirements  
4.1 Workmanship and finish  
4.1.1 The method of manufacturing of padlocks and its components is left to the manufacturer; 
however, it shall meet the requirements laid down in this standard. All components of the padlocks  
and keys shall be finished smooth to minimize frictional resistance in their working.  
4.1.2 The body of the padlock, if required, shall be suitably painted/plated. The shackle and keys for 
brass padlocks shall, however be finished bright.  
4.1.3 Steel comp onents shall be suitably protected to resist corrosion. The electroplated coating of 
nickel  plus chromium or zinc on iron and steel wherever done, shall be done in accordance with ISO 
1456 and ISO  19598 respectively. The electroplated coating of copper plu s nickel plus chromium shall 
be done in  accordance with ISO 1456.  
4.1.4 When the thickness of the plating is determined in accordance with  5.5, it shall be one of the 
following, as required:  
a) at least 10 μm for locks intended for use in inland areas (standard conditions); or  
b) at least 20 μm for locks intended for use in severe conditions.  DEAS 1155:2023  
4.1.5 When a padlock is tested in accordance with 5. 6, there shall be no separation of the plating fro m the 
underlying metal.  
4.1.6 When a padlock intended for use in severe conditions (see 4. 1.4(b)) is tested in accordance with 5.2.1.2, 
the plating shall show no sign of discoloration or rust or other failure.  
4.2 Dimensions and shapes  
4.2.1 Padlocks havin g sizes other than those specified in Table 1 may also be permitted as agreed to between 
the purchaser and the supplier, but the other provisions in this standard will be generally adhered to. The 
typical shape and design of padlocks and their designs are indicated for information in Annex A.  
Table 1: Dimensions of Lock and Shackle  
Nominal Size of Lock, mm  
 Minimum Shackle Diameter, mm  
25 4 
30 4 
40 5 
45 6 
50 6 
55 8 
60 8 
65 9 
70 10 
75 11 
85 12 
90 12 
Note:  The tolerances for size of lock shall be  ± 2mm.  
 
4.3 Classification  
4.3.1 General  
Classification shall be in form of a four digit code as shown below:  
Table 2: Classification  
1 2 3 4 
Category 
of use  Durability  Corrosion 
resistance  Security  
 
4.3.2 Category of use (first digit)  
Grade 1: for u se by people with high incentive to exercise care and with small chance of misuse.  
4.3.3 Durability (second digit)  
Grade 0: no requirements.  
Grade 1: 10,000 cycles.  
4.3.4 Corrosion resistance (third digit)  
Padlocks and padlock fittings shall be classif ied in six grades.  
4.3.5 Security (fourth digit)  
Padlocks and padlock fittings shall be classified in security grades 1 to 6, where 6 is the highest.  DEAS 1155:2023  
Example : 
1 1 3 5 
 
Box 1: Grade 1  
Box 2: Durability grade (1)  
Box 3: Corrosion grade (3)  
Box 4: Secur ity grade (5)  
 
4.4 Material requirements  
4.4.1 The components of the various types of padlocks shall be manufactured from the recommended 
materials in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6 and the manufacturer may select suitable materials for the 
manufacture of padlock.  
Table 3: Recommended Materials for Various Components of Padlocks (In General)  
S/No.  Component  Recommended  Material  
1 Key Brass sheet  or Steel sheet  or Stainless steel  or 
Nickel silver  
2 Spring  Spring steel wire or Phosphor bronze wire  
3 Shackle  Bright b ars or Stainless steel  bars and flats or 
Stainless steel wire rod  
4 Case/Body  Steel sheet or Stainless steel sheet or Brass sheet  
 
Table 4: Recommended Materials for Various Components of Disc Tumbler Padlock  
S/No.  Component  Recommended  Material  
1 Body  and 
plug Zinc base alloy  die castings  according to ISO 15201  
or Aluminum alloy or Leaded brass or Nylon, delrin, 
Polycarbonate or Free cutting leaded brass  
2 Disc 
tumbler  Brass sheet or Steel sheet or Aluminum alloy  
 
Table 5: Recommended Materials for Various Components of Pin Tumbler Padlock  
S/No.  Component  Recommended  Material  
1 Body and 
plug Zinc base alloy die castings  according to ISO 15201  
or Aluminium alloy or Brass gravity die casting or 
Free cutting leaded brass  
2 Cylinder  Zinc base alloy die  castings  according to ISO 15201  
or Brass gravity die casting or Brass rod  
3 Pin tumbler  Brass wire or Nickel silver rods  
 
Table 6: Recommended Materials for Various Components of Lever Padlock  
S/No.  Component  Recommended  Material  
1 Body and 
plug Zinc b ase alloy die castings  according to ISO 15201  
or Aluminium allov or Leaded brass or Nylon, delrin, 
polycarbonate, etc or Brass sheet  
2 Lever  Brass sheet or Steel sheet or Aluminium alloy sheet  
3 Rivet  Mild steel wire  
 DEAS 1155:2023  
4.4.2 Steel components shall be sui tably protected to resist corrosion. The electroplated coating of nickel plus 
chromium, zinc on iron and steel or brass plating wherever specified, shall be done in accordance with Grade 
C of ISO 1456, Grade B of ISO 2081 and Class A of ISO 19598 respectiv ely. The electroplated coating of 
copper plus nickel plus chromium shall be done in accordance with ISO 1456.  
 
4.5 Performance requirements  
4.5.1 Padlocks shall meet all the required values set forth in Tables 7 -10 as applicable in order to qualify for 
the applicable grade level of 1 through 6.  
4.5.2 A failure of any one padlock in the forcing or cycle tests constitutes a failure of the complete test. See 
5.3 for acceptance criteria for surreptitious entry tests.  
4.5.3 Successfully passing the Salt Spray Te st and Environmental Tests, or both, for any one model 
constitutes acceptance for all sizes in the model tested, providing the materials used for all sizes are the 
same.  
4.5.4 Users may want padlocks exceeding the required criteria of one or more of the te sts in a given grade 
level. Manufacturers may identify the grade level and levels of performance exceeding the requirements for 
that class (see Annex B).  
4.5.5 Cylinder picking, impressioning, rapping, decoding, and shackle shimming are described in this 
specification. Since the skill of the person doing the testing has a direct bearing on the resulting times of the 
tests, one of each test shall be conducted by a minimum of three different persons having experience of not 
less than three years of approximat ely the same skill level and the results averaged for determining relative 
levels of performance.  
4.5.6 Key bumping is a subjective test to be conducted using bump keys designed for the lock or cylinder 
being tested and an impact device as outlined in clau se 6.  
4.5.7 Tolerances:  
4.5.7.1 Fixture Tolerances —All tolerances shall follow standard machining practices unless otherwise 
specified.  
4.5.7.2 Test Set up Tolerances:  
4.5.7.2.1 Force: 0.5 % of working range.  
4.5.7.2.2 Height: 63 mm.  
4.5.7.2.3 Torque: 4.0 % of reading.  
4.5.7.2.4 Weight: 610 g.  
4.5.8 Temperature —All tests shall be conducted between 16° and 27°C (61° and 81°F).  
4.5.9 Test Reports —All test reports shall be dated.  
Table 7: Cycle Tests Required Values  
Cycle Tests  Grades  
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 
Keye d Padlocks (× 1000)  1 10 25 50 75 100 
Force to Insert Key Maximum 
(all Grades), N  12 N  
Force to Extract Key Maximum 
(all Grades), N  12 N  
Torque to Rotate Cylinder Plug 
Maximum, Nm  
(Newton Metres)  0.17 0.17 0.13 0.13 0.08 0.08 
Combination Padlocks (× 1 000) 1 10 25 50 75 100 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
Table 8: Required Values for Corrosion and Environmental Tests  
 Grades  
Corrosion Testing:   C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 
Salt spray cumulative time (h)  120 144 168 192 216 240 
Weathering Testing:  W1  W2  W3  W4  W5  W6 
Salt spray (fog) cum ulative time (h)  96  192  288  384  480  576 
UV light/condensed moisture 
condensation cumulative time (h)  16 32 48 64 80 96 
UV light cumulative time (h)  32 64 96 128 160 192 
Exposure totals cumulative time (h)  144 288 432 576 720 864 
 
Table 9: Surrepti tious Entry Tests Required Values  
Surreptitious Entry Tests  Grades  
1 (S1)  2 (S2)  3 (S3)  4 (S4)  5 (S5)  6 (S6)  
Picking or Manipulation, min  1⁄2 1 2 4 8 15 
Bump Key Attack, min  21⁄2 5 71⁄2 10 121⁄2  15 
Impressioning or Decoding min  N/A N/A 2 4 8 15 
Shackle Shimming Test min  1⁄2  1  2  4  8  15 
Drilling and Shimming min  N/A  N/A  N/A  4  8  15 
Rapping min  N/A  N/A  2  4  8  15 
 
 
 
Table 10: Forcing Tests Required Values  
Forcing Tests  Units  Grades  
1 (F1)  2 (F2)  3 (F3)  4 (F4)  5 (F5)  6 (F6)  
Tensile Force  newtons  1000  2500  5000  9000  20000  40000  
Shock/Impact test 
blows   5 5 5 5 5 5 
Shock/Impact test 
weights  kilograms  1  2  3  4  5  6 
Shock/Impact test 
heights  meters  1 1 1 1 1 1 
Plug pull test  newtons  1000  1500  2000  3000  6000  12000  
Plug torque test  newton -
meters  10  15  20  25  30  35 
Shackle cutting 
force test  newtons  4450  9000  13500  18000  31000  45000  
Resistance to  
sawing of padlock 
body, shackle 
and staple  minutes  - - - 2 4 8 
 
5. Test Methods  
5.1 Durability test/Cycle Test  
5.1.1 Keyed Padlocks:  
Prior to conducting the cycle test, insert key into each padlock cylinder 25 times and manually rotate both 
clockwise and  counter clockwise (if possible, otherwise in the direction of opening) after each insertion.  
5.1.1.1 Operate the required number of cycles at a rate not to exceed 10 cycles/min. Lubrication shall not be 
added during the test.  DEAS 1155:2023  
5.1.1.2 At the beginning and the end of the cycle test, cylinders shall meet the operational tests. The required 
values for these tests are expressed in Table 7 of this specification.  
5.1.1.3 Failure occurs if the test cannot be completed, the padlock does not operate at the conclusio n of the 
test, the key breaks, or the requirements of 10.1.1.2 are not attained.  
5.1.2 Non -Key Retaining Padlocks  
In a test fixture which will horizontally hold the padlock and mechanically operate the key, activate through a 
cycle consisting of the follow ing: 
5.1.2.1 Fully inserting the key in the keyway.  
5.1.2.2 Rotating the key and cylinder plug the necessary number of degrees to open the padlock either 
clockwise or counter clockwise.  
5.1.2.3 Allowing the shackle to extend, if spring loaded, or not, movi ng the shackle to its full extension.  
5.1.2.4 Retracting the key from the plug until the key tip no longer touches the front tumbler.  
5.1.2.5 Reengaging the shackle to the locked position.  
5.1.3 Key Retaining Padlocks  
In a test fixture that will hold the p adlock horizontally and mechanically operate the key, activate through a 
cycle consisting of the following:  
5.1.3.1 Fully inserting the key in the keyway.  
5.1.3.2 Rotating the key and plug the amount and direction necessary to open the padlock.  
5.1.3.3 All owing the shackle to extend, if spring loaded, or if not, moving the shackle to its full extension.  
5.1.3.4 Reengaging the shackle to the locked position. Rotate key in plug to home position.  
5.1.3.5 Retracting the key from the plug until the key tip no lo nger touches the front tumbler.  
5.1.2 Combination Padlock  
Cycle single dial and multiple disk padlocks in alternate directions for the required number of cycles at a rate 
not to exceed 10 cycles per minute, with no more than a 2 s dwell. One cycle is equal  to the number of 
revolutions necessary to upset all combination disks. At the conclusion of the test, failure occurs if the test 
cannot be completed or the padlock does not operate at the conclusion of the test. Lubrication shall not be 
added during the t est. 
5.2 Corrosion and Environmental Tests  
5.2.1 Corrosion Resistant —Salt Spray Test  
5.2.1 .1 After an exposure of the required number of hours according to Table 8, padlocks shall operate. Test 
one padlock, suspended by nylon cord in the vertical upright p osition. Conduct the test and clean for 10 min in 
accordance with ISO 9227. Failure of any lock to unlock and relock within 1 min indicates failure.  
5.2.1 .2 When a padlock intended for use in severe conditions  the c orrosion resistance test shall be done in  
accordance with the procedure given in ISO 11997 -1 with an exposure time of 16 h, the plating shall show no 
sign of discoloration or rust or other failure.  
5.2.2 Weathering -Corrosion Environment Test  
Three padlocks are exposed to sequential cycles of salt  spray and condensation -ultra violet radiation. At the 
conclusion of the condensation -ultra violet radiation phase of the test, the padlocks are unlocked and relocked 
to check operation.  
The number of exposure hours for a specific grade is shown in Table 8 . 
Failure of any lock to unlock and relock within 1 min indicates failure.  DEAS 1155:2023  
The padlocks must pass the previous grade level test successfully before being tested to the next grade level . 
5.3 Surreptitious Entry Tests (see Table 9)  
5.3.1 Picking or Manipulat ing Test  
5.3.1.1 Cylinders in padlocks shall resist picking (see 4.5.5) for the required time. Combination padlocks shall 
resist manual manipulation (see 4.5.5) for the required time.  
5.3.1.2 Cylinders or padlocks submitted for test containing pin tumblers  shall be loaded using one each of the 
three or four mid -range bittings available unless such a combination would not normally be supplied as a stock 
product. Cylinders in padlocks containing other tumbler elements shall be loaded using maximum ranges. If 
lock design and cylinders used are the same in several different sizes of padlocks submitted for testing, only a 
total of five samples of any size or sizes need to be tested.  
5.3.1.3 The tools used for this test shall be manual manipulating tools required by the operator, providing no 
visible marks are left detectable by the unaided eye.  
5.3.2 Cylinder Impressioning and Decoding Tests  
5.3.2.1 Cylinders shall resist successful impressioning and decoding (see 4.5.5) for the required time.  
5.3.2.2 Padlocks wit h cylinders submitted for test shall be loaded in accordance with 5.3.1.2.  
5.3.3 Shackle Shimming Test  
Insert any shim stock selected (see 4.5.5) that can be inserted in the clearance between the shackle and the 
case in either or both of the case shackle h oles of a locked padlock and manipulate for the required time.  
5.3.4 Cylinder Drilling and Shimming Test  
5.3.4.1 Use hand -held tools.  
5.3.4.2 Load cylinders in accordance with 5.3.1.2.  
5.3.4.3 Cylinders in locked padlocks hanging from a hasp shall resist d rilling and shimming for the required 
time. Results of the drilling test shall not be obvious to the unaided eye.  
5.3.5 Rap Test  
5.3.5.1 Use hand -held tools.  
5.3.5.2 Padlocks shall resist successful rapping on the cylinder and case (see 4.5.5) for the requ ired time.  
5.3.6 Key Bumping Test —The testing person must change the order of testing for 5.3.6.1 and 5.3.6.2 to use 
the most likely successful bumping attack first.  
5.3.6.1 A lock or cylinder not previously bump tested by the locksmith is permitted to be mounted in a block if 
the testing person prefers that method and have the prepared pull bump key inserted. A prepared pull bump 
key is permitted to have a hole drilled in the bow for mounting a weight bar.  
5.3.6.2 A lock or cylinder bump tested per 5.3.6.1  is permitted to be mounted in a block if the testing person 
prefers that method and have the prepared push bump key inserted. A prepared push bump key is permitted 
to have a hole drilled in the bow for mounting a weight bar.  
5.3.6.3 Impacts with the impac t device shall be by hand using a rapping motion which ensures that the impact 
device applies force to the bump key a single time and does not allow bouncing impact of the impact device.  
5.3.6.4 Impacts to the key shall be performed at a minimum rate of 4 per minute. Any accelerated rate of 
impact is permitted to be used during the test to achieve the quantity of impacts required by the stated 
minimum rate/time requirement for a given grade level, that is, 10 impacts in 2.5 min by each type of bump DEAS 1155:2023  
key with out operation = Grade 1, or 10 impacts by each type of bump key in less than 2.5 min without 
operation = Grade 1.  
5.3.6.5 The torque applied to the bump key during the impact testing shall be no less or no greater than the 
testing person has found optimum from past experience.  
5.3.6.6 If the cylinder or lock is not operated by the bump key within 10 impact cycles of either type of bump 
key, the lock is classed as Grade 1. Locks or cylinders that are operated by either type of bump key in 10 or 
less impacts will be qualified as having Grade zero bump resistance.  
5.3.6.7 The test described in 5.3.6.4 – 5.3.6.6 shall be repeated through 10 complete impact cycles with each 
type bump key for each Grade level from 2 through 6 or until operated by a bump key. A cyl inder or lock that 
is operated by either type of bump key on the 11th through 20th cycle will be qualified as Grade 1, 21st 
through 30th = Grade 2, 31st through 40th = Grade 3, 41st through 50th = Grade 4, 51st through 60th = 
Grade 5. Any cylinder or lock that resists operating for a total of 60 impacts by each type of bump key shall be 
qualified as Grade 6.  
5.3.6.8 The test shall be repeated for each of the remaining cylinders.  
5.3.6.9 At the conclusion of testing by each locksmith the seventh cut key shal l be used to verify that the lock 
or cylinder still functions.  
5.3.6.10 Failure of the lock or cylinder to function does not constitute failure of the testing since it provides a 
detection method of a bumping attempt.  
5.3.6.11 A lock or cylinder which capt ures the bump key to prevent an unlocking motion using a bump key 
shall be classed as Grade 6.  
5.4 Forcing Tests (see Table 10)  
5.4.1 Tensile Test  (Does not apply if test cannot be performed) (see 6.1)  
Support the locked padlock in a fixture bearing agains t the top surface of the case without interfering with the 
shackle or giving support through the top of the case to the shackle retaining mechanism. Apply the required 
force slowly along the vertical centerline of the padlock in a direct and equal tension on each leg of the 
shackle. Failure occurs if the padlock opens.  
5.4.2 Shock Test  
Using the impactor (6.2) drop the weight the required number of times on the top of the locked padlock case. 
Failure occurs if the padlock opens.  
5.4.3 Plug Pulling Test  
Drill the keyway with a No. 20, 4 mm diameter drill and insert a Type AB No. 12 screw at least 19 mm  deep. 
Apply the required tension (6.1) axially between the case and the installed screw. Failure occurs if the cylinder 
plug or cylinder assembly completely se parates from the case, or if the padlock can be opened by 
manipulation with a screwdriver at the conclusion of the test.  
NOTE 1: Some cylinders are of a configuration such that a different attachment may be needed in order to 
apply the required loads.  
5.4.4 Plug Torque Test  
5.4.4.1 Install the padlock in a rigid fixture such as a vice to support it firmly but not restrict free rotation of the 
plug in the cylinder.  
5.4.4.2 Insert a blade type tool into the keyway, so that a torque load can be applied to the plug. Failure 
occurs if the padlock opens.  
5.4.5 Shackle Cutting Test  (Does not apply if test cannot be performed)  
Shackles shall withstand cutting through when 2 shearing blades made of a steel hardened to a minimum 
hardness of Rc 50, are used in conjunct ion with the blade positioning holder, is placed in a tensile loading DEAS 1155:2023  
device (6.1) having a compression load capability and compressed with the required force. See Annex B for 
details. Failure occurs if the shackle is cut through.  
5.4.6 Sawing Test  
Mount the padlock on to a suitable test rig for use with a sawing machine as shown in Fig. B.10. Saw blades 
used shall be bi -metal saw blades with 24 TPI tensioned to 1 kN. The sawing machine shall make 60  
complete 165 mm stroke cycles per minute, with an applie d load of 90N. Do not use any coolant during the 
test. Sawing shall be carried out for vulnerable areas for time t (Table 10).  
 
5.5 Thickness test for plating  
Using any an acceptable electrochemical method to determine the thickness of the zinc, cadmium, copper -
nickel or chromium on plated components and check for compliance with 4.1.4 . 
 
5.6 Adhesion test for plating  
5.5.1 Apparatus  
A hacksaw and a blade  that has 90 to 100 teeth per 100 mm.  
 
5.5.2 Procedure  
Saw through the plating on plated components and examine the edges of the cuts for compliance with 4.1.5.  
 
6. Preparation of Apparatus  
6.1 Tensile Loading Device   
Provide a tensile loading device having a load and force measuring capacity of 44 500 N.  
6.2 Shock Impactor:  
6.2.1 Provide a fixture as il lustrated in Annex B which allows the weights described in (6.2.2) to be properly 
guided to strike the anvil rod which will be placed in direct contact with the top surface of a padlock using the 
mounting block described in (6.2.3).  
6.2.2 Make a set of wei ghts as shown in Annex B, with a central hole in each that allows the weight selected 
to free fall and strike the top surface of the anvil rod.  
6.2.3 Make a mounting block that will support the specimen on the mounting block when being subjected to 
the req uired shock load (see Table 10).  
6.3 Key Bumping:  
6.3.1 Each locksmith performing the test shall use two of the supplied keys to fabricate his own pull bump key 
and push bump key.  
6.3.2 Both a pull bump key and a push bump key shall be used to test a lock or cylinder for bump resistance 
by each of three locksmiths.  
6.3.2.1 A torque bar is permitted to be  used if the test person prefers that method.  
6.3.2.2 A single impact cycle consists of having a bump key fully inserted into the keyway and withdrawing it 
one cut position for the pull type, inserting the key fully into the keyway and then releasing it to allow the pins 
to center it for the push type, impacting the end of the key to drive it fully into the keyway while torque is 
applied. If the cylinder or l ock operates after the impact, it failed the test at that cycle and shall be given the 
appropriate grade level for the last cycle that did not accomplish operation. If it did not operate, a new cycle 
shall be achieved until the lock or cylinder reaches Gra de 6.  
6.3.3 Provide various mounting blocks for locks or cylinders as required by the test person if rigid mounting is 
preferred.  
6.3.4 The impact device shall be a non -metal instrument with a weight not to exceed 113.4g . 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
7 Sampling and Inspection  
In any consignment, all the locks of the same type, same size, and manufactured from the similar materials 
under similar conditions of manufacture shall be grouped together to constitute a lot.  
For ascertaining the conformity of the lot to the requirements of thi s standard, the sample of padlocks shall be 
selected at random and tested separately for each lot.  In order to ensure the randomness of selection, 
procedures given in ISO 24153 may be followed.  
The number of sample locks to be selected at random from a lot  shall depend upon the size of the lot and 
shall be in accordance with Table 11. The padlocks in the samples shall be selected at random from the lot.  
In case padlocks are packed in boxes, 20 percent of the boxes, subject to a minimum of two, shall be open ed 
and equal number of padlocks shall be taken from each box so as to constitute the required sample size.  
The padlocks selected shall be inspected for dimensions, workmanship and finish. The lot shall be considered 
as conforming to these requirements if t he number of padlocks failing in any one or more of the requirements 
does not exceed the permissible number of defective padlocks given in Table 11.  
Table 11: Sample Size and Criteria for Conformity  
S/No.  Lot Size (No. of  
Locks in the Lot)  Dimensions, Work manship and 
Finish  Material and Performance Test  
Sample Size  Permissible No. of  
Defective 
Padlocks  Sub-sample  Permissible No. 
of 
Defective 
Padlocks  
1 Up to 50  8 0 2 0 
2 51 to 150  13 0 2 0 
3 151 to 300  20 0 2 0 
4 301 to 500  32 1 3 0 
5 501 to 1000  50 2 5 0 
6 1001 to 3000  80 3 10 0 
7 3001 to 10000  125 5 15 1 
8 10001 and above  200 7 20 2 
 
8 Packaging and Marking  
8.1 Each padlock with its keys shall be packed in a  moisture proof paper or polyethylene bag, or as agreed  to 
between the purchaser and the  supplier.  
 
8.2 Each package of padlocks shall be marked with the following information:  
 
a) manufacturer's name or initials or trademark;  
b) batch number;  
c) classification and size of the padlock;  
d) country of origin;  
 
8.3 Each padlock shall be marked w ith the following information:  
a) manufacturer's name or initials or trademark;  
b) batch number;  
c) classification and size of the padlock;  
 
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
ANNEX A  
(Informative)  
SHAPE  
A1.1 Padlock Shape  
A1.1.1 The typical shape and design of padlocks and their designs may also  be made as per manufacturer’s 
patent illustrative and for guidance only. Other shapes and designs may also be made as per manufacturer’s 
patent or as agreed to between the purchaser and the supplier.  
 
Figure 1: Disc Tumbler Padlock  
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
Figure 2: Lever P adlock  
 
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
Figure 3: Pin Tumbler Padlock  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
ANNEX B  
(Normative)  
Test Rig Illustrations  
 
Figure B.1: Cylinder plug or locking mechanism torque test  
 
 
Figure B.2: Cylinder locking mechanism Actual Pull Test  
 
Figure B.3: Shackle/Staple Pulling Test  DEAS 1155:2023  
 
Figure B.4: Shackle/Staple Twisting Test  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
Figure B.5: Shackle/Staple Cutting Test  
 
 
 
Figure B.6: Impact Test on Padlock Body  
 
 
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
Figure B.7: Impact Test on Padlock Shackle  
 
 
 
Figure B.8: Impact test on Staple  
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
 
 
 
Figure B.9: Drilling Test  
 
 
Figure B.10: Sawing Test  
 DEAS 1155:2023  
ANNEX C 
(Informative)  
USER GUIDE  
C1.1 Padlock Class Rating  
C1.1.1 Padlocks meeting all the requirements of one of the Grades 1 through 6 shall be so rated.  
C1.1.2 A padlock complying with one of the grades may exceed the require ments for that grade in the 
surreptitious entry test category or the forcing test category.  
C1.1.3 A rating beyond 1 through 6 may be used by some manufacturers. For example, a padlock designated 
as Grade 3 may also have the parenthetical designation (F5S3 ). This would mean the padlock met the 
requirements for forcing test of Grade 5. Users of padlocks not overly concerned with surreptitious entry attack 
but wanting relatively high resistance to forcing would find such a padlock more useful than one rated G rade 
3. 
C1.1.4 The environmental tests listed in Table 4 are optional tests to be specified as needed by users of this 
standard. Taking into account the manner of padlock class rating as explained in  
C1.1.1 – B1.1.3, combining requirements of forcing tests , surreptitious entry tests and environmental tests in 
varying grade levels for each category can result in specifying padlocks that do not exist. If the product 
desired is not readily related to a known padlock, individual manufacturers should be consulte d. 
C1.2 Options  
C1.2.1 Under the function description, several optional features are described, including one for corrosion 
resistant criteria for padlocks used in an exterior or corrosive environment, one for nonferrous shackles used 
in situations where i t is desirable for the shackle to be easily severed, one for those wishing a removable core 
feature, and others.  
C1.2.2 These should be specified by indicating the function required with optional feature(s) desired.  
C1.3 Chains  
C1.3.1 If chains attached to  the padlock are required, they must be so specified.  
C1.4 Keys  
C1.4.1 Two keys are customarily furnished with each padlock. If more or less are required, they must be so 
specified.  
C1.5 Hasps  
C1.5.1 Hasps are not addressed in this standard. The strength a nd fastening system of a hasp must be 
compatible with the grade of padlock in order to maintain the integrity of the locking system.  
C1.6 Sizes  
C1.6.1 Padlocks are generally sized according to the width of the case. As this width increases, the diameter 
of the shackle and the vertical and horizontal clearance between the shackle and the case increases. As the 
diameter of the shackle gets larger, its resistance to cutting attack because of greater mass becomes higher. 
Consequently, the same series of padlock s may have a low grade rating in a small size and an increasingly 
higher rating in subsequently larger sizes.  
C1.7 Safe Key or Combination Changes  
C1.7.1 Safe key or combination changes (those that do not interchange) are not unlimited and vary according 
to the number of tumblers in a cylinder or a combination mechanism. While this is not a function of the security 
of a single lock under this Standard, it becomes important in a system incorporating many locks which have 
different keys or combinations for ea ch lock. Anyone using this standard for procurement purposes must 
specify the number of safe changes required.  DEAS 1155:2023  
C1.7.2 Unless unique methods are used which are generally proprietary, any simple 6 pin master keyed 
system is limited to approximately 4000 safe  key changes. If a relatively high security system is wanted and 
the system is still to be master keyed, safe changes are reduced to about 1000. If a 4 or 5 pin tumbler system 
is used, the safe key changes are again substantially reduced.  
C1.7.3 No master key at all is best for achieving the goal of higher security, but may be inappropriate for 
efficient administration of the system.  
C1.7.4 If requirements appear to be complex, individual specialists or manufacturers should be consulted.  
C1.8 Tests  
C1.8.1 T he forcing tests included in this standard were devised so as to be accurately repeatable in a 
laboratory environment. The nature of the forces and loads imposed are intended to encourage the production 
of a padlock which will withstand a balance d variety of attacks. Criteria selected is based on guarding against 
known attack methods employed with the greatest frequency. Users of this standard with special needs may 
wish to impose additional cutting or forcing tests.  
 
 DEAS 1155:2023  
Bibliography  
[1] ASTM F883 -13, Standard Performance Specification for Padlocks  
[2] IS 15275:2003, Padlocks — Specification  
[3] SANS 1533, Padlocks  
[4] US 1670: 2017 , Padlocks — Specification  
[5] TZS 1413: 2022, Padlocks and padlock fittings — Specification  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WD/TC 035/00 3/2023  
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