Vault Systems for Jewellers: Ratings, Specifications, and Insurance Requirements

There's a significant gap between "having a safe" and "having an insurance-approved safe." If your vault doesn't meet UL or ECB-S certification standards, your insurer may reduce coverage limits — or deny claims entirely. This guide dives deep into vault certification standards, fire resistance ratings, and the specifications your jewellers block policy actually requires.

Why Vault Ratings Matter

Insurance underwriters don't just ask if you have secure storage. They ask what rating your vault has, because ratings predict how long it will resist a professional attack.

The logic is simple: a vault that resists attack for 30 minutes gives police time to respond to a CMS alarm. A vault that fails in 5 minutes doesn't.

Your jewellers block policy will specify minimum vault requirements. Non-compliant vaults mean:

• Lower coverage limits
• Higher premiums
• Claim denials for vault-related losses

UL Certification: The Global Standard

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is the most widely referenced certification body for safe and vault ratings. These ratings are recognized by insurers in Singapore, Malaysia, and globally.

UL Safe Ratings

Safes are rated by how long they resist attack on the door face:

What the Ratings Mean

• TL = Tool resistant (drills, grinders, saws, pry bars)
• TR = Torch resistant (cutting torches, thermal lances)
• x6 = Protection on all six sides (top, bottom, all four walls)
• Number = Net working time (actual attack time, not elapsed time)

The Door-Only Problem

Standard TL-15 and TL-30 ratings only certify the door and front face. A professional burglar may attack the sides, top, or bottom instead.

For free-standing safes not embedded in concrete, consider x6 ratings that protect all sides.

UL Vault Room Classifications

For higher inventory values, a vault room provides superior protection to a standalone safe.

Vault Classifications

Vault vs. Safe: Key Differences

European Certification Standards

If purchasing vaults from European manufacturers, you'll encounter different rating systems.

ECB-S (European Certification Body - Security)

ECB-S grades safes from I to XIII based on resistance units (RU):

VdS (Verband der Sachversicherer - Germany)

German certification widely recognized in Europe. VdS ratings often map to ECB-S grades.

EN 1143-1 Standard

European standard for safes and vault doors, referenced by ECB-S and VdS certifications.

Fire Resistance Ratings

Burglary ratings and fire ratings are separate certifications. A TL-30 safe may have no fire rating at all.

UL Fire Ratings

Do Jewellers Need Fire Protection?

Precious metals (gold, platinum) survive fire — they won't burn. However:

• Watches with plastic/rubber components can be damaged
• Gemstones may crack or discolour under extreme heat
• Documentation and records need protection
• Some insurers require fire ratings regardless

Combination Ratings

High-security safes often carry both burglary and fire ratings, such as "TL-30 with 2-hour fire rating."

Lock Requirements

The lock is the vault's most vulnerable point. UL-rated safes require specific lock types.

UL Lock Classifications

Electronic vs. Mechanical

Biometric Options

Modern high-security safes may include biometric (fingerprint) access, often combined with PIN codes for two-factor authentication.

Installation Requirements

A properly rated safe improperly installed loses its effectiveness.

Anchoring

UL standards require safes under 750 lbs to be anchored to a concrete floor. Anchoring prevents:

• Removal of the entire safe
• Tipping to access the bottom
• Movement during attack

Location Considerations

• Visibility: Position where staff can monitor access
• CCTV coverage: Cameras should capture vault access
• Alarm sensors: Motion, vibration, and seismic detectors nearby
• Structural support: Floor must support vault weight
• No shared walls: Avoid walls shared with public areas where possible

Vault Room Construction

For modular or poured-in-place vaults:

• Reinforced concrete walls (thickness per UL class)
• Continuous rebar throughout
• Proper anchoring to building structure
• UL-rated vault door matching wall classification
• Emergency ventilation (for walk-in vaults)
• Internal lighting

Insurance Coverage by Vault Type

Insurers set coverage limits based on vault specifications. These are typical industry benchmarks:

Common Vault Mistakes

1. Confusing Fire Doors with Vault Doors

Fire doors resist fire, not burglary. Clues that you have a fire door, not a vault door:

• Rating stated in hours (fire rating)
• Inside release lever (for fire escape)
• Light construction

2. Assuming "Heavy" Means "Secure"

Weight alone doesn't indicate security. A 1,000 lb safe without UL rating may be less secure than a 750 lb TL-30.

3. Buying Unrated Safes

Many commercial safes sold as "high security" have no UL or ECB-S certification. Without third-party testing, there's no way to verify claims.

4. Neglecting the Lock

A TL-30 body with a cheap lock undermines the entire system. Ensure the lock meets UL Group 1 or Type 1 standards.

5. Poor Installation

Failing to anchor properly, placing against a thin wall, or positioning where an attack can proceed unobserved.

Integration with Alarm Systems

Modern vault security goes beyond the physical container.

Vault-Integrated Alarms

• Door contacts: Detect unauthorized opening
• Vibration sensors: Detect drilling or cutting
• Seismic sensors: Detect attack through walls
• Thermal sensors: Detect torch attacks
• Relocker triggers: Additional bolts engage if attack detected

Time-Delay Features

Electronic locks can be programmed with time delays:

• 5-10 minute delay before vault opens
• Prevents forced opening during robbery
• Gives CMS time to verify and respond

Duress Codes

A special code that opens the vault but silently alerts the CMS. Used when forced to open under threat.

Cost Comparison by Vault Type

Costs vary significantly based on size, manufacturer, and installation complexity.

Working with Your Insurer

Before purchasing or upgrading a vault:

Step 1: Understand Your Inventory Value

Calculate your maximum inventory exposure — what's the most you'll have on premises at any time?

Step 2: Consult Your Insurance Broker

Ask specifically:

• What vault rating is required for my inventory value?
• Are European certifications (ECB-S) accepted?
• What alarm integration is required?
• Will an upgraded vault reduce my premium?

Step 3: Get It in Writing

Confirm vault requirements in your policy documents. Don't rely on verbal assurances.

Step 4: Document Your Compliance

Keep certificates, installation records, and photographs. You may need them for claims.

Key Takeaways

• UL TL-30 is the standard minimum for most jewellery stores
• x6 ratings protect all sides — important for free-standing safes
• TRTL ratings add torch resistance for higher security
• Vault rooms (Class 1-3) offer highest protection and coverage limits
• Fire ratings are separate from burglary ratings
• Lock type matters — require Group 1 or Type 1 electronic
• Proper anchoring is essential for safes under 750 lbs
• CMS alarm integration significantly increases coverage limits
• Confirm requirements with your insurer before purchasing
• Unrated safes = limited or no coverage

Your vault is the last line of defence for your inventory. Getting the rating right isn't just about security — it's about ensuring your insurance coverage actually protects you when it matters.