Select a safe


It is not easy to decide which safe is the right one. In order to make the right decision, you should consider the following points when choosing your safe:

  • Size
  • Rottner Safe AtlasType of lock
  • Insurance rating
  • Fire resistance
  • Final location                     
  •    

1. Size

Before choosing the right size always consider what the safe will need to store. Start by creating a list of important items, such as cash, credit cards, cash box, jewellery, watches, documents, certificates, passports, insurance policies, photos, data carriers, hard disks, CDs, USB -sticks, long or short weapons or ammunition. Then based on the list work out the approximate size needed.

We recommend that an additional 30-50% storage space is taken into consideration, for any valuables that might need to be stored in the safe in the future.

Please pay attention to these points when buying a safe, to make sure you make the right choice and enjoy your safe for a longer time.

Rottner Sydney sizes    Rottner Sydney larger sizes

2. Type of lock

Choose from the following lock options:

  • Key lock / Double bitted lock
  • Electronic lock
  • Mechanical combination lock

 

Key lock

The key lock or double bitted lock is supplied with 2 keys. It is the most simple solution as you do not have to remember a combination of numbers and there is no code to forget.

Premium flat handle key lock    Premium grip handle key lock

Electronic lock

The electronic lock offers millions of code possibilities to best protect your valuables. The code can easily be changed anytime. The electronic lock offers great flexibility and security, hence the higher price.

  Premium flat handle electronic lock    Premium grip handle EL lock

Mechanical combination lock

The mechanical combination lock offers many different settings of the code and can be adjusted as often as required. Unfortunately, the process is not very easy.

Premium flat handle mechanical combination lock    Premium grip handle mechanical combination lock

3. Insurance cover

It is important that you consult with your insurer about the desired insurance value and the required rating of your safe.

On the back of the door of tested safes, there is a plate containing information regarding the security rating of the product. Your insurance company can assess the classification of your safe based on the information that can be found there. Tested safes offer a burglary and/or fire protection, have a stronger construction and a tested locking system. 

Graded safe is also listed with the Association of Insurance Surveyors (AIS), insurance companies will use this list as a guide.

  AIS approved safes     ECBS-EN1     ECBS-EN2    ECBS-EN3    ECBS-S2    VDMA-B    EN0    EN1 security grade

4. Fire safety

Apart from burglary protection, some safes also have tested fire protection. This is indicated by a separate test label.

Testing is conducted at a maximum of 1090 ° C and can last for 60 to 120 minutes. It includes a heating phase in a fire oven, a drop test of 9.15 m onto a gravel bed and a cooling phase.

  Fire resistance 1090/120     Fire resistance 1090/60     Fire resistance 900/60     Fire resistance 900/90     LFS 30P     LFS 60P     S120P Fire rating     S120DIS Fire rating

5. Place of installation

It is important that the position of the safe is well-chosen. It should not be fixed somewhere visible, or in a place known for just about anyone. The more concealed it is, the better protected your valuables will be. Safes should not be placed in a room with high humidity. Fireproof safes should not be placed in direct sunlight, as the insulation material will react to temperature rise. 

The best location for your safe is an office or bedroom, as burglars suspect your valuables are here, and this is where they would be looking first. This prevents your entire home from being devastated, as the burglars will concentrate on the safe.

Also, mind the structure of the building, and whether the ceiling would bear the weight of the safe if it is not installed on a ground floor.