SEAP and CPNI Approved Padlocks
SEAP and CPNI Approved Padlocks
Important Note: SEAP (Security Equipment Assessment Panel) was renamed CPNI in 2013, but many people still refer to SEAP as the term is more memorable and was widely used for many years. Both names relate to the same function and guidance on approved security products.
What Is CPNI, And What Does It Do?
CPNI stands for the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure. It provides guidance for securing assets and locations that are considered critical, such as utilities, transport networks, government buildings, chemical plants, data centres and similar sites. Instead of producing its own unique padlock rating system, CPNI directs users to specific existing standards that padlocks should meet depending on the level of risk.
How Does This Relate To Padlocks?
CPNI does not directly approve or certify individual padlocks. Instead, their published security guidance documents reference the existing British and European padlock standard known as BS EN 12320. This standard outlines how padlocks should be tested, assessed and graded for security performance.
Understanding The CEN Grade System
BS EN 12320 uses a scale called CEN (Central European Norm), which rates padlocks from Grade 1 to Grade 6.
Grade 1 = Low Security
Grade 6 = Maximum Security
Insurance companies normally require Grade 3, Grade 4 or Grade 5 depending on the level of risk, value of the items being protected and whether the lock is used internally or externally.
Why The Confusion Between SEAP, CPNI And CEN Grades?
Much of the confusion stems from older documentation and insurance policies referencing “SEAP Approved Padlocks.” Since SEAP no longer exists as a label, most organisations now use CPNI guidance instead. However, that guidance still directs users to the BS EN 12320 / CEN grading system rather than introducing anything new. So while the names have changed, the relevant security rating system has not.
In Summary
SEAP is now known as CPNI. CPNI does not issue unique padlock approvals. Instead, it refers to the CEN security grading system under BS EN 12320. When insurance or security policies refer to SEAP/CPNI padlocks, they are almost always referring to padlocks that meet the appropriate CEN grade — usually Grade 3, Grade 4 or Grade 5 depending on the application.