Resistance to corrosion is one of the main aspects to be considered when choosing a marine ship lock, since it constantly faces salty water and high humidity. According to the research done by the Marine Safety Institute in the year 2020, as much as 25% of locks on vessels have failed prematurely due to rust and corrosion. In contrast, stainless steel or specially coated alloy-made locks are more resistant to these elements and can last up to 30% longer than other materials. The durability of the lock is very important, too, as it is known that under good conditions, the average life of a marine lock is around 5 years. Poor-quality locks can last only 1 or 2 years, which increases replacement costs.
Apart from resistance to corrosion, the size and type of lock are critical to security. There are several types of marine locks, including padlocks, bolt locks, and electronic keyless entry systems. For instance, a bolt lock is a bit more secure than a mere padlock since it can take much force. As an example, the IMSC 2021 reported that 18% of all marine thefts are due to padlocks bypassed without significant effort; therefore, their alternative should be much stronger. More advanced features of remote access and tracking are possible in electronic locks, but these cost higher, in the range of $100-$500, depending on the security and technology involved.
Ease of use is another important factor. This complicated lock was frustrating in certain emergency situations when the crew needed quick access to the ship’s compartments. Experts recommend opting for locks with a simple mechanism yet secure; for instance, a combination or digital lock permits ease of use with better security than key-based locks. Besides, the locks that have a backup manual key or an emergency override feature are always good to go in terms of reliability.
High-value items or very important areas of the ship deserve to have an advanced security system. A number of marine locks come fitted with tamper alarms or even biometric access that can go a long way in reducing unauthorized entry. As marine security expert Sandra White explains, “In marine environments, security is not just about keeping out thieves; it’s also about ensuring the safety of crew members and protecting critical areas from unauthorized access.
Another factor relating to the dependability of marine ship locks is that of maintenance. Regular cleaning and greasing can provide protection against mechanical failures and promote smooth operation. The Marine Security Handbook recommends greasing locks at least twice a year, most especially in saltwater or highly humid environments. Studies have proven that a lock properly maintained is likely to reduce an operational problem by 40%.
There are various types of marine ship lock available that can cater to the highest demands of any maritime environment for those seeking quality options.