ANSI/BHMA Grading System

BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), a private non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the voluntary standardization to develop and maintain performance standards for builder's hardware. ANSI/BHMA standards set forth different product grades for door hardware products. These product grades are defined by progressive levels of performance benchmarks in each applicable standard. The purpose of each is to help identify the quality and durability of locksets through a series of operational and security tests.

 

So what value does this bring to the consumer?  The process of certifying products is strictly voluntary, yet Kwikset feels there is a certain responsibility to let consumers know what type of product they are purchasing. Here are the standards set by ANSI.

 

ANSI/BHMA A156.XX designation of Standards for Door Hardware

  • Deadbolts are covered by standard: A156.5

  • Locks and Handlesets: A156.2

  • Interconnected: A156.12

  • Finishes: A156.18

Ansi Chart

Each grade specifies minimum acceptable requirements for:

  • Operation i.e.: key torque; cycles
  • Security i.e.: pull strength, impact resistance
  • Finish

For more information about Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association visit their web site at www.buildershardware.com