Business Practices and Locksmith Law Flashcards

What does ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) require regarding door hardware on accessible routes?

Answer: Hardware must be operable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting, and must require no more than 5 lbf to operate

ADA Standards require accessible hardware to be operable with one hand, without tight grasp or wrist twist, and with no more than 5 pounds of force — which is why lever handles are preferred over round knobs.

What is the primary difference between a 'commercial' and 'residential' grade lock per ANSI/BHMA ratings?

Answer: Commercial grade (Grade 1) is tested to higher cycle counts, greater force resistance, and more stringent durability standards than residential Grade 2 or 3

ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (commercial) locks are tested to withstand 250,000+ cycles and higher force requirements, while Grade 2 and 3 have lower thresholds suitable for residential use.

Which legal concept makes a locksmith potentially liable if they service a lock for an unauthorized person who then uses access to commit a crime?

Answer: Negligence — failing to exercise reasonable care (like verifying authorization) that foreseeably leads to harm

A locksmith can be found negligent if they fail to take reasonable steps (like verifying authorization) and a foreseeable harm results — this is why authorization verification is both ethical and legally protective.

What is the recommended practice when a locksmith is asked to service a lock for someone claiming to be the property owner but cannot produce identification?

Answer: Decline service until proper identification and proof of ownership or right to access can be verified

When proper ID and authorization cannot be verified, the professional and legally safe practice is to decline service until the customer can provide required documentation.

What does 'ALOA SCTA' stand for and what is its focus?

Answer: Safe and Vault Technicians Association — focused on safe opening, servicing, and vault technology

SAVTA (Safe and Vault Technicians Association) is an ALOA affiliate focused specifically on safe and vault servicing education, certifications, and professional standards.

What record-keeping practice is recommended for locksmiths regarding key codes and customer lock records?

Answer: Store records securely and confidentially, share only with authorized parties, and retain records per applicable laws and business policy

Key codes and customer lock records are sensitive security information that must be stored securely, shared only with authorized parties, and managed per privacy laws and ALOA ethical standards.