RC4 and RC5 sit above common residential classes, but they solve different risk levels. RC4 addresses a prepared attacker with heavy hand tools and cordless drills; RC5 introduces more powerful electric tools and a longer net resistance period.
Why This Must Be Specified Opening by Opening
A project requirement is useful only when it identifies the opening, intended use, performance target, tested configuration and party responsible for approval. Generic catalogue language cannot resolve different risk zones, wall conditions, hardware sets or operating logic.
Project Specification Checklist
- Threat model: Use RC4 for high-value or critical openings where the defined attacker remains within the RC4 tool set; consider RC5 only when the risk assessment supports power-tool attack.
- Complete assembly: The class covers leaf, frame, anchors, hinges, lock, cylinder, protective hardware and dimensions together.
- Weight and operation: Higher reinforcement affects hinges, closer force, accessibility, structure and maintenance.
- Other ratings: Fire, smoke, egress and access control remain separate requirements and must be coordinated.
- Cost control: Zone the building so RC5 is limited to genuinely critical openings instead of applied as a blanket upgrade.
Evidence to Review Before Purchase
- Valid EN 1627 classification and test reports
- Maximum approved size and configuration
- Anchor and wall construction details
- Hardware schedule matching the report
Match every report to the exact product proposed. Check dimensions, opening direction, leaf and frame construction, hardware, seals, anchors and supporting wall. Record any difference and obtain formal acceptance before production.
Common Failure Modes
The most common failures are choosing a rating by habit, approving a certificate for another configuration, changing hardware after testing, ignoring the wall interface and leaving commissioning until handover. An opening schedule and evidence matrix expose these gaps while they can still be corrected.
What to Include in the RFQ
Send the destination, project type, door marks, quantities, finished openings, wall construction, required standards, hardware and access-control schedule, finishes, delivery stages and documentation list. This lets the supplier respond with a configuration rather than an unsupported headline claim.
Related WONLY Resources
FAQ
Is a supplier declaration enough? No. Request evidence that covers the proposed complete assembly and have it reviewed by the responsible designer and authority.
Can hardware be changed after approval? Only when the evidence or responsible authority permits the substitution. Treat every change as a configuration review.
