Caption:
When buying a safe, consumers should definitely take a close look at the certification mark (Photo No. 269)

Photo:
ESSA

Caption:
Users can recognise a reliable accredited certification by the ISO/IEC 17065 reference on the certification mark. For example the European Certification Body offers accredited certification. (Photo No. 270)

Photo:
ESSA

Be careful when buying a safe: Many certificates are a bluff

Reliable accreditation of the certification body gives consumers security

Frankfurt/M. – 25. April 2024. Anyone who buys a safe wants security. And that is exactly what is often lacking. The problem is that a number of certificates that buyers use as a guide are a bluff. "In principle, anyone can issue a certificate," says Falko Adomat, Managing Director of the European Security Systems Association (ESSA). "Only the accreditation of the issuing body proves that a neutral, competent organisation is behind it." It is therefore worth taking a closer look or asking: Reliable certification brands have a reference to their accreditation standard. If this information is missing: Hands off!

Risky Security Leak

The risky security leak exists worldwide - worthless certificates are repeatedly found on the global market. While some countries require accredited certifications at least for individual safe applications, others give producers free rein. The result is hollow promises of security. In some cases, certification bodies have not even seen the product, but have only issued their certificate on the basis of drawings. Sometimes the manufacturer has even simply issued the certificate themselves. "Unfortunately, this is not illegal," criticises Falko Adomat.

Accreditation helps with safe selection

The good news is that the reference to accreditation provides consumers with guidance and security. It proves that the independent certification body mentioned works together with competent, neutral test laboratories that have mastered all attack methods when testing safes. Their highly qualified security experts manage extensive, strict testing processes. Based on the results, accredited bodies carry out an unbiased assessment and classification that users can rely on. The international standard ISO/IEC 17065 stipulates that the accreditation body verifies the competence and impartiality of the respective certification body through annual audits.