Understanding TS007 3 Star Cylinder Locks

BSI 3 Star Locks: Your Guide to Maximum Security Standards

If you work in the security trade, choosing the right cylinder lock isn’t just about how it works. It’s about meeting standards, staying compliant, and protecting your customer’s property.

The Office for National Statistics reports that 67% of home burglaries in England and Wales happen through the front door.

With techniques like snapping, bumping, and drilling on the rise, the BSI 3 Star Kitemark (TS007) is now the go-to standard for high-security locks. Here’s what you need to know.

Why does TS007 & BSI 3 Star Standards Matter for Trade Installations

Key Security Standards to Meet

• PAS 24:2022
  PAS 24:2022 is a UK standard that tests the security performance of doors and windows. It checks how well products can resist forced entry through both manual and simulated attacks. It’s commonly required in social housing and commercial projects.
• Building Regulations – Part Q
  Part Q applies to new residential buildings. It requires that doors and windows must resist physical attack from burglars. This sets a minimum security level for all new homes.
• Secured by Design (SBD)
  SBD is a police-led initiative promoting products that meet tested security standards. If a product carries the SBD mark, it’s been independently tested to help prevent crime. It’s a trusted benchmark across the industry.

In any project where these standards apply, fitting a BSI 3-Star cylinder lock isn’t optional — it’s essential for compliance and effective protection.

What Makes a 3-Star Insurance Approved Lock? 

BS 3621- Explained

BS 3621: What It Means for Lock Security

British Standard 3621 sets the benchmark for locks that can withstand common attacks like drilling and picking. It also covers design features such as bolt length and overall functionality.

This standard applies to mortice deadlocks, euro deadlocks, sash locks, and cylinder locks that can be operated from both sides of the door — ensuring security inside and out.

With 67% of burglars entering through the front door, the lock is your first line of defence. Many UK homeowners don’t realise their current locks may not meet insurance standards. A BS 3621-certified lock could be the difference between staying protected or having an insurance claim denied.

What is BS3621?

BS3621 is a quality mark for locks, showing they can resist common break-ins. It was introduced by the British Standards Institution (BSI) over 60 years ago.

While not legally required, many insurance companies demand BS3621 locks for home policies. Without them, claims might be rejected if a break-in occurs.

If a lock doesn’t meet BS3621 standards, insurance might not cover stolen items or damages, leaving customers to pay and possibly unhappy with the service received from a locksmith.

How to Identify a BS3621 Lock 

Find the BSI Kitemark: Look for a distinctive heart-shaped symbol with an “S” inside it on the profile of the cylinder (the part where you insert the key).

This BSI Kitemark proves the lock has passed strict testing. 

What Makes a Cylinder BS3621 Certified?

A cylinder lock itself can’t be BS3621 certified — the BS3621 certification applies to a complete lock assembly, not just the cylinder. However, the cylinder plays a crucial role in helping a lock meet BS3621 requirements.

Here’s what makes a complete lock (including the cylinder) BS3621 certified:

1. The lock must be key-operated from both inside and outside.
   • No thumbturns on the inside — both sides must require a key.
2. The lock must include a deadbolt with a minimum throw (typically 20mm).
3. The lock must resist forced entry techniques, including:
   • Drilling
   • Picking
   • Sawing
   • Manipulation
4. Cylinder security matters — the cylinder used must be:
   • Anti-pick
   • Anti-drill
   • Anti-bump
   • Snap-resistant (in newer updates like BS3621:2007 onwards)
5. The entire lock assembly (case + cylinder) must be tested and certified together by an accredited body like the British Standards Institution (BSI) and bear the kitemark.

BS EN 1303: 2005 – Explained

BS EN 1303:2005 – Lock Cylinder Classification

BS EN 1303:2005 is a European standard that rates lock cylinders across eight areas: usage, durability, door weight, fire resistance, safety, corrosion and temperature resistance, key security, and attack resistance.

To meet door security standards, there are two main compliance routes. Each has its own benefits and trade-offs, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your project. Below, we break down the pros and cons of both to help you decide.

PAS24- Explained 

The Publicly Available Specification is overseen by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and provides testing standards for the security performance of windows and doors when under attack. Within this, the performance of the door set, including door hardware, is thoroughly tested.

TS007 – What does the TS007 standard cover?

TS007 – Flexible Options for Achieving 3-Star Door Security

TS007 allows locksmiths and installers to mix and match components to improve door security. It offers flexibility while still meeting strict standards — making it easier to reach the highest rating of three stars.

Rather than prescribing a single solution, TS007 provides two clear paths to compliance:

• Option 1: Upgrade the lock cylinder to a 3-star rated model.
• Option 2: Combine a 1-star cylinder with 2-star rated security hardware (such as reinforced handles).

Use the table below to see how different combinations can meet the TS007 3-star requirement.

TS007 Compliant Cylinders: Manufactured for Maximum Security

TS007-Certified Cylinders You Can Trust

We know how important door security is. That’s why all our TS007-certified cylinders are independently tested to the highest standards at UKAS-accredited labs — so you know they’re built to stop break-ins.

Want proof? Take a look at the Evva TS007 3-Star. We provide full test reports for installers and specifiers who need verified performance.

For added assurance, check out our Featured Cylinders. These models hold dual certification — TS007 plus other key standards — making them ideal for jobs where maximum security is essential.