What Is a Classroom Function Lock and How Does It Work?
When selecting a lock for a commercial door, the lock function determines how the door can be locked and unlocked and how the inside and outside levers operate.
We previously discussed storeroom locksets, but another common option for controlling access is the classroom function lock, most often used on classroom doors.
What Is a Classroom Function Lock?
A classroom function lock is a lockset that can be locked or unlocked from the outside using a key.
When locked, a key is required to enter from the outside, while the inside lever remains operable for exit. Unlike a storeroom function, the outside lever can remain unlocked after being unlocked with the key.
This allows the door to remain unlocked during normal use and be secured from the outside when needed.
How Does a Classroom Function Lock Work?
The classroom function provides controlled access from the outside while allowing free egress from the inside.
- Outside lever: Can be locked or unlocked using a key.
- Inside lever: Remains operable for exit.
- Outside key: Changes the outside lever between its locked and unlocked conditions.
For example, a classroom door can remain unlocked during the school day and then be locked from the outside with a key when the room needs to be secured.
Classroom Function vs. Storeroom Function
Classroom and storeroom functions both provide controlled access, but there is one important difference.
With a classroom function, the outside lever can remain either locked or unlocked.
With a storeroom function, the outside lever remains locked. A key allows entry from the outside but does not leave the outside lever unlocked.
[Read more about storeroom locksets and how they work.]
What Types of Locks Can Use a Classroom Function?
Classroom functionality is available with both cylindrical locksets and mortise locks.
Cylindrical Locks
For cylindrical bored locks, the ANSI/BHMA classroom function is commonly designated F84. The outside lever can be locked or unlocked by key, while the inside lever remains operable.
Mortise Locks
Classroom functionality is also available with mortise locks. Operation and function designations can vary depending on the lock and manufacturer.
Talk to a Beacon representative to determine which lock is appropriate for your opening.
Exit Device Trim
For doors with an exit device, keyed outside trim can provide an operation similar to a classroom function lock. The outside trim can be locked or unlocked with a key, while the exit device on the inside remains operable for egress.
Like a classroom function, this allows the outside lever to remain unlocked when access is needed and be locked with a key when the opening needs to be secured.
Functions can vary by manufacturer, so talk to a Beacon CDL representative to confirm the appropriate exit device trim for your opening.
Is a Classroom Function Lock Right for Your Door?
Classroom function locks are commonly used in classrooms and educational facilities where a door may need to remain unlocked during normal use but secured from the outside when necessary.
When selecting a lock, consider who needs access, whether the outside lever needs to remain unlocked, the type of lock being installed, and applicable building, fire, life-safety, and accessibility requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding how a classroom function works—and how it differs from other commercial lock functions—can help you select the appropriate hardware for your opening.
Beacon Commercial Door & Lock offers commercial door locks and hardware for a variety of applications. Explore our selection or contact our team for help finding the right hardware for your commercial door.