Security safes and locking cabinets share many similarities but they are actually two distinct security tools. Prior to purchasing a safe or cabinet it helps to know what makes each one unique.
An individual typically chooses a cabinet over a safe for its increases size and storage capabilities. Other factors to consider when making the purchase include:
- Fire resistance versus security rating
- Cash/valuables rating
- Preference for freestanding base or bolt fixture
- Type of lock (electronic, key lock, combination, etc.)
When Storage is a Main Concern
One of the most apparent differences between a safe and a locking cabinet is the physical room for storage. Cabinets offer ample storage for important documents and digital media. As a result, they are ideal for administrative offices and business that handle a great deal of paperwork like legal offices. To get added protection,
opt for a fire cabinet which protects files from not only theft but also heat and damage from smoke.
Protect Highly Sensitive Documents
As the saying goes, ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. Well, the same goes for a safe. The most accurate indication of a safe’s security level is not its outward appearance but its rating. Robert’s Ratings is a reputable ranking system developed by the founder of
Safe Options. When shopping for a document safe, be sure to check its rating.
Bronze security safes offer the lowest level of security which makes them really ideal for opportunistic theft. Silver rated safes, one notch above bronze, offer superior resistance to burglary and other physical attacks. Gold rated safes are certified to resist even greater violent attacks and are given this rated based on independently conducted tests. The final category is Platinum Security safes. Some can be insurance rated for up to £600,000 which indicates the level of care and attention applied during construction.
The vast majority of locking cabinets will fall into the Bronze or Silver category so if a business calls for the utmost security, they should choose a Platinum Security safe.
Consider the Fixing Options
The third component to base a decision on is the facility’s own design. Certain office spaces prohibit damage to the walls or flooring which would prevent an individual from installing a base fixed safe. In that case, the obvious choice would be to find a comparable locking cabinet that is free standing.
The
Phoenix Firechief Security Cabinet is fire resistant for up to 30 minutes and includes four adjustable shelves to organise all sorts of records. Although it doesn’t need to be fixed to the ground it still receives a Silver security rating from Robert’s Rating as a result of its high-tech electronic lock and EN14450 test certification. As you can see, you don’t necessarily need a safe to receive the level of security you’d like.
Depending on your needs, it may be more or less apparent which security device is appropriate. Keep Robert’s Rating in mind as well as the fixing options and amount of available storage.
Photo credit:
Some rights reserved by
dun_deagh
