Locking In Privacy

June 2, 2025
With a growing selection of indicator locks, privacy and safety get an upgrade

By all indications, the trend towards indicator/privacy locks is going strong. On the heels of the introduction of cylindrical privacy locks, starting with the Arrow APL Series back in 2022, the market is now seeing a second wave of additional models and functionalities. Nearly every major lock manufacturer has jumped into this product category. Here are some of the recent introductions.

 

Marks  USA

Marks USA, a division of NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc., has added the SKA-Series Indicator Locks. These locks offer a highly visible security status at a glance — ideal for schools, healthcare facilities, offices, and commercial buildings.

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Designed for today’s heightened focus on safety, Marks’ Indicator Locks feature bold red and green visual indicators. These make it easy for staff, occupants, and security personnel to instantly confirm whether a door is locked or unlocked, providing greater confidence, improved emergency response, and daily peace of mind.

Easy to install, teamed with Marks’ durable 5 Series Grade 1 Mortise Locksets, the indicators can be mounted independently or combined double-sided, and are available in Turnpiece (TP), Coin Key (CK), or Cylinder (CYL)models. Engineered for intuitive, hassle-free operation, they eliminate guesswork during high-pressure moments.

Built with ADA-friendly, code-compliant designs and backed by Marks’ trusted reputation for quality and a Lifetime Warranty, these locks are ideal for classrooms, patient rooms, offices, lounges, and other high-use environments where security clarity matters most.

"At Marks USA, we’re committed to creating smart, durable solutions that help people feel safer and more secure," said Bill Sporre, VP of Sales, Marks USA, Division of Napco. "Our new Indicator Locks are another example of how we combine reliability, code compliance, and real-world usability to meet the evolving needs of schools, healthcare facilities, and commercial properties, and those whose job it is to protect them."

For more information, visit www.marksusa.com.

 

Codelocks

Codelocks has extended its CL5000 electronic lock range with new Do Not Disturb (DND) models. The new CL5000 DND electronic locks prevent interruptions and unwanted access to locations where controlled privacy is important for people’s comfort and confidence.  

The new CL5000 DND electronic locks are particularly suitable for private spaces such as meeting rooms, consulting rooms, restrooms and changing rooms.  

The lock’s Do Not Disturb feature is activated by pressing the red button on the inside of the lock. When activated, only the Key, Master and Sub-Master codes can unlock the door, ensuring no interruptions or unwanted access. If a standard User Code is entered, the lock’s LEDs will flash, an alert will beep, and the door will remain locked. To cancel DND functionality the blue button is pressed, or the inside lever handle is turned. 

Mark Samuelson, Regional Director at Codelocks Asia Pacific said: “The Do Not Disturb feature offers comfort and confidence in a wide range of sensitive areas, whether it be toilets, changing rooms or anywhere where someone may want extra assurance of privacy. This lock offers peace of mind and convenience, particularly in situations where discretion or focused time is essential.”  

The CL5000 DND features Codelocks NetCode Technology which allows the facility owner or manager to set a date and time-sensitive code remotely via the Codelocks Connect Portal. The user receives a NetCode via email or text for their set duration. 

The two models within the range are the CL5010 DND Mortise Latch and the CL5020 DND Mortise Lock. Both are suitable for high-traffic areas,  and available in brushed steel or solid black finishes.  

Easy to install and program, Codelocks’ CL5000 DND electronic lock generates up to 100,000 openings from 4 x AA batteries, with a low battery warning when batteries need replacing. If batteries fail before they can be replaced it also boasts a battery override function.  

More info: www.codelocks.com.au/cl5000-dnd

 

SARGENT

SARGENT Lock’s enhanced 10X Line bored locks now with visual status indicators. These indicators offer instant confirmation of a door's locked/unlocked status. Available in multiple functions, including keyed and privacy, these locks are ideal for new and retrofit projects, exceed industry standards for ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 durability, and fit standard bored lock prep. Multiple indicator placements available on the inside, outside, or both sides of the door ensure optimal visibility, and the sleek design complements any style. Beyond the indicators, the 10X Line is engineered for high-traffic, high-abuse conditions, exceeding ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards and delivering unmatched durability.

Sargent also offers the indicator function on its 8200 Series mortise locks and 460 series deadbolts. For more information, visit www.sargentlock.com

 

Corbin Russwin

The CLX3300 Series cylindrical lock with status indicator trim is the perfect blend of privacy and security. Its innovative design features 6 customizable status indicator windows available for the inside, outside, or both sides of the door, giving you complete control over visibility. Crafted with the robust CLX3300 Series lock body, it exceeds Grade 1 standards for superior durability in high-traffic areas. 

Corbin Russwin also offers status indicators on its PED5000 Series exit devices, ML2000 Series mortise locks and DL2200 Series deadbolt locks. For more information, visit www.corbinrusswin.com.

 

Schlage

Following the 2024 introduction of Schlage's indication trims for mortise, cylindrical, and deadbolt locks, the Grade 1 cylindrical ND Series is now expanding the indication offering. Five new exterior indication options all feature keyed unlocking and the same large, 180-degree window visibility that sets these trims apart. This release also includes indication trim options for two popular entrance functions that can be applied on either the inside or the outside of the entry.

Schlage’s indicator lock lineup now includes Grade 1 mortise and cylindrical locks, the B600 Grade 1 deadbolts and the B500 Grade 2 deadbolts. Indicator exit trim is available from Von Duprin.

More information: https://commercial.schlage.com/en/solutions/by-requirement/indication/know-its-locked.html

 

FPL Door Locks & Hardware

FPL custom profile cylinders are configured in the U.S. to your exact specifications, engineered for precision. They can be made in any offset size, down to the exact millimeter. Even cylinders over 8" long are no problem (even higher than 100mm on each side of the cam). Choose from Single, Double Keyed, Privacy, or Half Cylinders. FPL profile cylinders are available with Schlage or Yale keyway, with 360-degree full rotation or 90-degree quarter rotation. Some sizes are also available with 8 pin or 16 pin security options.

For more information, visit https://fpldoorlocks.com

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Emily Pike | Managing Editor

Emily Pike is managing editor of Locksmith Ledger International.