Whereas most people see a padlock as a clear barrier to entry, some local poachers had tended to see them as a target; their often high-powered, weapons being capable of shattering conventional locks. Further, the company’s padlocks were often used in remote areas where electronic or other methods of surveillance were impractical.

The implications of this weakness in security included; increased risk of fire, damage to gear and theft of diesel and heavy industrial batteries, along with compromised forestry worker and public safety.

Allied Locks’ answer was the ABLOY 340 Series hardened-body padlocks. The body of the padlocks is hardened steel which gives no quarter, compared with the usual brass in conventional locks.

The Southern Regional Manager of the forest said re-keying with Allied Locks had managed to stop “even the most determined” would-be trespassers. “It’s proven to be a successful strategy.” He described the integrity and performance of the locks under fire as “impressive”.

One 340 padlock had three shots discharged into it – likely from a distance of 20 to 50 metres – and still retained its integrity. They have also proved to be able to withstand being battered with rocks and attacked with a Waratah metal fence post.