Guide resource
Electric Strikes explains a decision that can materially affect security, safety and administration. Use it to prepare for a site assessment, then have the final design checked against the building, door and operational requirements.
Match the strike to the latch and frame
An electric strike replaces or modifies the keeper in the frame so an authorised latch can pass while the door remains mechanically latched at other times. It does not correct a latch that misses the keeper, a door that drops on its hinges or a closer that cannot overcome seals and air pressure.
Record the latch type, frame material and depth, handing, door swing, existing cut-out and any fire-rating evidence. Narrow aluminium, timber and steel frames require different preparation and fixing approaches.
Specify how the strike behaves with and without power
Choose the supported locking mode from the building’s entry, egress and emergency requirements—not from a generic preference for fail-safe or fail-secure. Confirm continuous or intermittent duty, voltage, current, monitoring options and compatibility with the selected latch.
Mechanical exit hardware normally provides egress independently of the strike, but the complete opening and applicable approvals still require assessment.
Read strike faults as mechanical evidence
- Buzzing without release may indicate preload, poor alignment or inadequate voltage at the device.
- Intermittent locking may follow a loose keeper, moving frame or damaged latch.
- A door that opens only when pulled or pushed is usually loading the latch against the strike.
- A large frame cut-out or improvised packing can weaken fixing and conceal alignment problems.
Commission under realistic door pressure
Test entry from a fully latched door, denied access, repeated closing, key operation, exit and loss of power. Apply the normal pressure created by seals, closers or building airflow. Confirm the latch is retained when access is denied and passes cleanly when release is authorised.
Electric Strikes questions
What decision should the electric strikes guide support?
For Electric Strikes, use it to record the relevant door, user, administration and failure requirements before equipment is selected. It is a planning aid, not a universal compliance certificate.
Does the electric strikes guidance apply to every opening?
For Electric Strikes, no. Door construction, traffic, egress, fire significance, accessibility, environment and other building systems can change the appropriate design.
What site information is needed for electric strikes?
For Electric Strikes, provide numbered doors, photographs or plans, user groups, operating hours, credential preferences, interfaces, known building constraints and expected changes.
Who should review a decision based on electric strikes?
For Electric Strikes, the client and security designer should review it, with IT, building, fire, electrical, privacy or specialist contractors involved where their responsibilities are affected.
What should be tested after applying electric strikes?
For Electric Strikes, test authorised and denied use, normal exit, physical closure, monitoring, relevant power or communications conditions and any integration from original event to operator outcome.
Discuss your access-control requirements
Share the door locations, approximate user numbers, site plans or photos, integrations and expected growth. Serious Security can prepare an itemised proposal after the requirements and site conditions are assessed.
Request an itemised access-control quote Sydney: (02) 8734 3250 Melbourne: (03) 8513 0799
