Door Lock Functions Guide
Understanding lock functions is essential when selecting hardware for commercial and institutional applications. Below is an overview of the most common door lock functions and their intended uses.
Standard Common Functions
Passage Function
Description
- Rotating the inside lever retracts the latch.
- Rotating the outside lever retracts the latch.
Characteristics
- Cannot be locked.
- Always unlocked.
Typical Applications
- Hallways
- Closets
- Interior doors where privacy and security are not required
Entrance Function
Description
- Rotating the inside lever retracts the latch.
- Rotating the outside lever retracts the latch only when the outside button is not engaged.
- Key operation available from the outside.
Locking Operation
- Pushing the inside button locks the outside lever.
- Turning the inside button locks the outside lever until manually unlocked.
- Turning the key on the outside unlocks the lever.
Typical Applications
- Office entry doors
- Reception areas
- Interior doors requiring controlled access
Classroom Function
Description
- Rotating the inside lever retracts the latch.
- Outside lever can be locked or unlocked using a key.
- Inside lever always allows free egress.
Characteristics
- Locking and unlocking are performed from the outside with a key.
- Cannot be locked from the inside.
Typical Applications
- Classrooms
- Training rooms
- Educational facilities
Storeroom Function
Description
- Outside lever remains rigid and does not retract the latch.
- Entry requires a key at all times.
- Inside lever always retracts the latch for free egress.
Characteristics
- Always locked from the outside.
- Cannot be left unlocked.
Typical Applications
- Storage rooms
- Supply closets
- Mechanical rooms
Single Dummy Trim
Description
A single surface-mounted lever used on:
- Inactive doors
- Non-latching doors
Typical Applications
- Decorative pulls
- Fixed door panels
Double Dummy Trim
Description
A through-bolted pair of matching levers used on:
- Inactive doors
- Non-latching doors
Typical Applications
- Double-door applications
- Decorative hardware
Specialty Functions
Intruder Function
Description
- Inside lever always provides free egress.
- Outside lever can be locked from inside the room.
- Authorized personnel can unlock the door from the outside with a key.
Characteristics
- Allows occupants to secure the room quickly during an emergency.
- Cannot be locked out from the inside.
Typical Applications
- Schools
- Classrooms
- Educational facilities requiring lockdown capability
Communicating Function
Description
- Either side can lock or unlock its own lever independently.
- Key operation available from both sides.
Characteristics
- Each side controls its own access.
Typical Applications
- Hotel connecting rooms
- Adjoining office suites
- Shared occupancy spaces
Institutional Function
Description
- Both inside and outside levers require key operation.
- Levers remain rigid.
Characteristics
- Always secured.
- Cannot be unlocked without proper authorization.
Typical Applications
- Detention facilities
- Behavioral health facilities
- High-security institutional environments
Choosing the Right Function
Function | Lockable | Free Egress | Typical Use |
Passage | No | Yes | Hallways, closets |
Entrance | Yes | Yes | Offices |
Classroom | Outside key only | Yes | Schools |
Storeroom | Always locked outside | Yes | Storage rooms |
Intruder | Emergency lockdown | Yes | Classrooms |
Communicating | Independent control | Yes | Connecting rooms |
Institutional | Restricted | Varies | High-security facilities |
This guide provides a general overview of common commercial lock functions. Always consult manufacturer specifications and local building codes before selecting hardware for a project.