Marine Security or Fire Code Violation? The Double Lock Question on BC Ferries: Mr. Locksmith explores the use of double locks on a BC ferry heading to Vancouver Island. The presence of a double lock on the doors, which may be against fire codes. The question is raised whether this constitutes a fire code violation or if different regulations apply to marine vessels.
Mr. Locksmith is your trusted, professional locksmith service offering expert residential, commercial, and automotive locksmith solutions across British Columbia. Whether you’re locked out, need your locks changed or rekeyed, or require high-security lock systems like Schlage Primus, Mr. Locksmith delivers fast, reliable, and damage-free service. With mobile locksmith units fully equipped for key cutting, lock repair, and security upgrades, our certified technicians are ready to respond quickly to your needs. From emergency car lockouts in Langley to commercial master key systems in Richmond. “Mr. Locksmith has the tools, training, and experience to keep you secure.” (Source: Terry Whin-Yates)
Key Points:
- Marine Security
- Fire Codes
- Locksmith Insights
- Safety Regulations
Source: Mr. Locksmith Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/24hrMrLocksmith
Marine Security or Fire Code Violation? The Double Lock Question on BC Ferries
Posted on June 20, 2025 | Category: Marine Security, Fire Codes, Locksmith Insights, Safety Regulations
Hi, and welcome back to the Mr. Locksmith blog! I recently found myself on a BC Ferry, on my way to Vancouver Island, and something caught my locksmith’s eye that was quite interesting – and led to a real head-scratcher of a question.
Mr. Locksmith Automotive (604) 259-7617
The Double Lock Dilemma
As I was walking around, I noticed something peculiar on many of the doors: a **double lock**. Now, if you know anything about standard building fire codes, having a double lock on a single door (meaning two separate locking mechanisms, especially if they both require a key from one side or the other) is typically a **fire code violation**. Why? Because in an emergency, you need to be able to exit quickly and safely without fumbling with multiple locks.
However, this isn’t just any building; this is a marine vessel, a ferry! So, the question that immediately came to mind was: **Is this a fire code violation on a boat, or is it permissible because it’s a marine vessel governed by different regulations?**
Fire Codes vs. Marine Regulations: A Different World?
On land, fire safety standards are strict. Doors leading to exits must be easily opened from the inside with a single action, without the use of a key or special knowledge. This is to ensure rapid egress during an emergency. Double locks can hinder this, potentially trapping occupants.
But marine environments, especially large passenger ferries, operate under a unique set of safety standards and international maritime regulations (like SOLAS – Safety of Life at Sea). These regulations cover everything from ship construction to fire safety, often with specific requirements tailored to the challenges of being at sea. It’s entirely possible that what would be a violation on land is acceptable, or even required, on a vessel due to specific security or operational needs in a marine context. Perhaps there are certain areas that need enhanced security, and the marine fire codes make allowances for this with different egress protocols.
What’s Your Take?
This is an intriguing question from a locksmith’s perspective. Are these double locks a necessary security measure for a moving vessel, or do they pose a potential safety concern in an emergency?
What do you think? Have you encountered similar situations on boats or in other unique environments? Share your thoughts in the comments below! It’s always fascinating to see how security and safety regulations adapt to different environments.
Need Expert Locksmith Advice?
Whether it’s for your home, business, or even unique situations like marine security, Mr. Locksmith is here to provide professional insight and services. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your security questions! Source: Terry Whin-Yates Mr. Locksmith Linkedin
Connect & Contact Terry Whin-Yates:
- Call or Text Terry: 604-773-5625
- Email: Terry@mrlocksmith.com
- Mr. Locksmith Training Website: https://mr-locksmith-training.thinkific.com/
- YouTube Channel: 24Hr Mr. Locksmith YouTube Channel
- LinkedIn: Terry Whin-Yates LinkedIn
Mr. Locksmith Automotive(604) 259-7617
For Updated Locksmith Workshop Training Dates and Location go to https://mrlocksmith.com/locksmith-workshop-training-dates/
YouTube Creator Award Silver Button: Visit Mr. Locksmith YouTube with 200,000+ Subscribers: http://www.youtube.com/user/24hrMrLocksmith
For further info go to Mr. Locksmith Training or email: Terry@mrlocksmith.com
Contact Terry Whin-Yates email: Terry@MrLocksmith.com
Online Locksmith Training https://mr-locksmith-training.thinkific.com/courses/locksmith-course-Become-a-Locksmith
How to Open Sentry Safes: https://mr-locksmith-training.thinkific.com/courses/open-sentry-electronic-safes-models-s-series-123-four-4-bolt-fire-resistant-safes
For LOCKSMITH TRAINING go to:
https://mr-locksmith-training.thinkific.com/
Mr. Locksmith™
Mr. Locksmith is a trusted locksmith company serving residential, commercial, and automotive clients throughout British Columbia. We specialize in emergency lockouts, lock change and rekeying services, high-security lock installations, key duplication, and mobile automotive locksmith services. Whether you’re locked out of your home, need car key programming, or want to upgrade to Schlage Primus or other high-security systems, Mr. Locksmith provides fast, professional, and reliable service. Available 24/7, our licensed locksmiths are fully equipped to handle all your security needs on-site.
Locksmith Training
Mr. Locksmith Training offers professional, hands-on locksmith courses for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. Taught by experienced locksmiths, our comprehensive training covers everything from lock picking and key cutting to rekeying, high-security lock systems, and automotive locksmithing. Whether you’re starting a new career or upgrading your skills, our in-person and online locksmith courses provide real-world techniques, business insights, and covert entry methods trusted by professionals. Join Mr. Locksmith Training and unlock your future in the locksmith industry today!
