Security of box screws

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tshea

tshea

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Location
Wisconsin
Here's the scenario. Customer has 15 overhead electrically operated garage doors. They want to lock the controls. I plan on using a LEV12212KL key switch.
device1221-2kl.jpg
So far so good. Here's the glitch. Customer wants the 4square box cover screws, switch mounting screws, and plate screws to be tamperproof.
Purpose is to prevent someone from opening box and jumping out key lock.
Lock is a maintained ON or OFF. Key is removable.
Anyone see an issue here? I think it's OK because Maintenance Dept will have special screw driver, etc.
 
Re: Security of box screws

I don't see any code issues. But a determined criminal could still break into the system. All it would take is a toothbrush heated slightly to as to make it malleable, then inserted into the screw so it takes on the correct shape, and then allowed to cool. So don't offer any guarantees. The screws are "tamper resistant," not "tamper proof."
 
Re: Security of box screws

They make key pads for this.Will the unwanted people be inside or outside ? Have cover plate protected by alarm contacts.
 
Re: Security of box screws

Put the switches inside of an enclosure and use multiple "Lock outs". Tamper switch that activates a call to police dept or at least a really loud siren.

Or a motion activated machine gun! :D

Dave
 
Re: Security of box screws

If this switch is to control a door opener, and not just kill power, make sure it's a momentary switch.....not ON & OFF. Most door openers I have seen require a momentary contact to trigger the door. This was just an FYI, perhaps the openers you have use something different.
 
Re: Security of box screws

Is the control inside ? If so it would be easy to just open the door from back of opener by shorting out the contactor wires.What exactly is involved here ?
 
Re: Security of box screws

The screws aren't the only way into the 4" square box. Someone can easily knock out the unused knock outs on the sides and have enough room and visibility to get jumper wires to the switch.

Dave
 
Re: Security of box screws

I've done work in Correctional Facilities and just about everything in those place had "Tamper Resistant" screws in it. I don't think it's an issue because every type of "Tamper Resistant" screw driver can be found very easily at a lot of stores. Makes me think of an old saying: "Locks only keep the honest crooks out"
 
Re: Security of box screws

Best response:
Or a motion activated machine gun!
Click to expand...
I'd hire my son who is a machine gunner in the Marine Corps!

Your right--locks keep an honest person honest.

We are going to break the common wire in the control circuit to the push buttons "OPEN CLOSE STOP"
All controls are indoors.
Thanks for all the help!
 
Re: Security of box screws

Do a google search for "security fasteners"

A little digging and you will find that you can have security fasteners made with a unique tool that is made only for your job.
 
Re: Security of box screws

CULLY makes a Mega-pro 15-1 screwdriver with various Philips, Roberts, and Torx bits.

They also make a 15-1 tool that is filled with about every tamper=resistant screw tip found.
 
Re: Security of box screws

If you are using standard boxes and covers, it doesn't really matter what type of screws are used. The use of a small hammer and chisel will open the box much faster than removing the screws.
Don
 
Re: Security of box screws

Originally posted by charlie b:
But a determined criminal could still break into the system. All it would take is a toothbrush heated slightly to as to make it malleable, then inserted into the screw so it takes on the correct shape, and then allowed to cool.
Click to expand...
Charlie B, you work your way through college with B&E, or as a locksmith? :D
 
Re: Security of box screws

battery operated moto tool cuts a slot in each screw head in fifteen seconds--then i use my "klien" trim screwdriver to remove the screws!!
 
Re: Security of box screws

Installation completed using key lock switch. Plates from LEV actually include "snake eye" screws. We also installed 8-32 "snake eye" screws to hold plaster rings to 4 square boxes.

Basically keeps an honest person honest!
 
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