What Is an Office/Entrance 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, classroom function locks, and privacy function locks. Another common option is the office/entrance function lock, which allows someone inside the room to control access while still providing keyed entry from the outside.

What Is an Office/Entrance Function Lock?

An office/entrance function lock is a lockset that allows the outside lever to be locked or unlocked using a button or other locking control on the inside.

When the outside lever is locked, a key can be used from the outside to gain access. The inside lever remains operable, allowing someone inside the room to open the door and exit.

This function is commonly used in offices, conference rooms, and other commercial spaces where occupants need the ability to control access to the room from the inside. Office/entrance functionality is available on both cylindrical and mortise locksets, allowing this function to be used with different types of commercial door hardware.

How Does an Office/Entrance Function Lock Work?

The office/entrance function combines convenient inside locking with keyed access from the outside.

• Outside lever: Can be locked from the inside. When locked, the outside lever becomes inoperable.
• Inside lever: Remains operable so the door can be opened from the inside.
• Inside locking control: Allows the occupant to control whether the outside lever is locked or unlocked.
• Outside key: Provides access from the outside when the outside lever is locked.

The exact operation of the locking button or turn piece can vary depending on the manufacturer and lockset.

Office/Entrance vs. Privacy vs. Classroom Function:

Although office/entrance, privacy, and classroom functions can all restrict access from the outside, the way each function is controlled is different.

Choosing the Right Lock Function

Choosing a commercial lock involves more than selecting the style of the hardware. The function of the lock determines how people will enter, exit, and secure the room during everyday use.

An office/entrance function can be a useful option when a space requires inside locking control, keyed access from the outside, and an operable inside lever for exit.

Understanding how office/entrance, privacy, classroom, storeroom, and passage functions differ can help you select the appropriate hardware for your commercial opening.

Need help determining which lock function is right for your application? Contact Beacon Commercial Door & Lock for help selecting commercial doors and hardware for your opening.