One of the hardest hit spots for vandalism in retail facilities in urban areas is the bathrooms. Senseless bathroom vandalism can cost businesses lots of money, but don’t worry. We have some solutions for you.

Access control can be incredibly beneficial when dealing with bathroom vandalism. You have several options that allow you to restrict entry and minimize the disruptions throughout your day.

Gauging Your Factor for Bathroom Vandalism

Just like with anything in the door and lock industry, you need to check the ADA Code to make sure you’re in compliance. The last thing you want to do is unknowingly violate a code because that can result in fines and fees.

There are are a couple of other things you should keep on your checklist as well:

• If you need a commercial bathroom lock, it needs to be a lever set and not a knob. In 2003 the ADA Code banned the use of knobs on bathroom doors and while the 2010 edition of the ADA Code strongly encourages you not to use them, your jurisdiction might still operate under the 2003 version.

• Stay away from deadbolts if you can. While there are some deadbolts that have longer thumbturns and are easier to operate, the 2003 ADA code bans anything that requires “tight grasping, pinching and turning of the wrist to operate” so that knocks out a large portion of your options for deadbolts. Granted, the 2010 edition doesn’t explicitly ban the use of them, but it’s typically better to stay away.

Lock Credentials to Combat Bathroom Vandalism

This is where you get to be a little more picky. You can decide what options best fit your facility and work-style.

Physical Keys

The most popular choice for access control is physical keys. They are simple to use and typically very low maintenance, however, that doesn’t mean they don’t have their drawbacks.

With physical keys you run the risk of them getting stolen or lost.. Ever wondered why gas station bathroom keys are usually attached to what seems to be a two by four? Now you know. You would think that would hinder the amount of keys that get stolen, but you’d be surprised to know it still happens quite frequently.

Codes

Keypads that require codes to unlock the bathroom door are an excellent option to reduce bathroom vandalism. If the code ever falls into the wrong hands or is shared with the wrong party, a quick change can fix the problem.

However, it needs to be noted that it’s not always easy or intuitive to change the code. It will depend on the lock you’ve chosen and it’s important to note there are some locks that require a technician to change the code.

Keypads require batteries so it’s important to know that regular battery changes will be needed. The frequency at which they need to be changed will vary and depends on how often the lock is used. Most of these locks require AA or AAA batteries but some do require special battery packs.

Buzzers

Buzzers are great options in facilities where it’s mandatory for the store clerk to stay at their station because they allow the employee to stay at their station and press a button (usually underneath the counter). This allows the customer to open the door when the buzzer sounds.

These usually need additional deadbolts so no one can unlock the door while the restroom is occupied. However, an ADA compliant indicator deadbolt will run right around $50.

Coins

Coin turn locks are very simple and require little additional help from the store personnel. A coin needs to be given to the customer and when the coin is placed in the lock, the door unlocks. It doesn’t have to necessarily be a special coin for the lock either. Many stores simply use pocket change and hand it out to customers who need access.

The biggest problem with coin locks, however, is they are so rare it may be hard to locate repair parts and knowledgeable technicians.

Do you have more questions about what bathroom lock credentials would work for your facility? Give us a call. We can help!