- TRTL. TXTL. The safe industry is full of terms that can be confusing to the uninitiated. Fortunately, that’s why experts exist: to pass on information about the exceptional work they provide. This is important for things like safe burglary ratings, which can have a big impact onthe safe you purchase and its ability to protect your belongings from intruders.
Let's cover the different types of safe burglary ratings and what they mean.
UL vs. Other Ratings
For starters, it’s important to know the difference between UL-rated safes and safes in the B Class or C Class categories. The latter two were established by the insurance industry to get a general idea of how a safe will stand up to a burglary attempt, but it wasn’t until theUnderwriters Laboratories (UL) established its system of ratings that more appropriate standards (and not administered by for-profit companies) were put in place for testing and rating safes.
RSC Ratings
The first credible UL label after B Class and C Class, these ratings stand for “residential security containers.” They offer limited protection with a Type 1 electronic lock, doors at least 3/16” thick and walls in at least 12-gauge steel. Performance wise, these safes must withstand up to five minutes of regular attempts to gain entry (prying, drilling, etc.). RSC Ratings can be Level I or II.
TL Ratings
Next you have a series of TL ratings, or “tool ratings.” (Not to be confused with TR, which stands for “torch rating”) From lowest to highest level of protection, these safes can be Class UL TL-15, Class TL-30 or a variation of either. There are certain weight, thickness, gauge andsecurity requirements for safes with this rating, which make it “tool-resistant” and officially in a burglary classification of safes. These safes must withstand 15-30 minutes of entry attempts.
TRTL Ratings
Safes with these ratings combine the requirements for tool resistance and torch resistance. As such, they tend to withstand common handheld tools, drills and devices (e.g. saws, wheels, cutting torches, etc.) that can potentially damage the safe. These range from Class UL TRTL-15x6 (15 minutes of protection) up to Class UL TRTL-60x6 (60 minutes).
TXTL Ratings
Where TL deals with tool resistance and TR refers to torch resistance, TXTL throws explosive resistance into the mix. If you’re looking for one of the sturdiest safe options that can withstand intense attacks, this might be the rating for you. Requirements include a minimum weight of 1,000 pounds, one inch or thicker steel casing, 60 minutes of protection time and resistance from a variety of hand/torch/cutting tools and explosives.
Choosing the Right Safe for You
The best way to determine which safe burglary rating is right for you is tostop by a safe showroom, review different model features yourself and ask questions. Our team of professional technicians would be happy to show you differences between safes and help you determine the right model, features and ratings you need. To get started, contact A-1 Locksmith today!