Master Locksmiths Association
Licensing the professional Locksmith
The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the
leading trade association for the locksmithing
industry. A truly not-for-profit organisation
promoting the skill and integrity of its
approximately 1,400 members, it was established
over 50 years ago to set and promote standards of
conduct, practice and materials within
locksmithing. Recognised as the authoritative body
for locksmithing by the police, home office,
British Standards Institute (BSI), The Risk
Insight, Strategy and Control Authority -
RISCAuthority (formally IPCRes) and Building
Research Establishment (BRE), the MLA also has a
subsidiary company, Sold Secure, which performs
certification of security products via manual
attack testing.
In the absence of Government based licensing
(meaning that anyone can call themselves a
locksmith), the MLA can provide peace of mind to
the end customer through it's licensing scheme.
MLA licensed locksmith companies, who undergo
strict vetting (including criminal record checks,
regular inspections to ensure quality etc), are
able to provide advice based on knowledge and
experience, recommend products that are fit for
purpose as well as provide professional
installation and maintenance services.
The Approved Companies inspectorate means the
MLA can demonstrate that all Company Members are
meeting high standards. Each company is inspected
on a regular basis, thus ensuring that its members
and their operatives maintain standards in
workmanship and administration. Also members are
expected to conform to legal requirements and
customer charters exist to ensure customer
satisfaction.
Inspections have the effect of making
locksmithing companies more accountable for their
daily operations. Approved Company members are made
aware that the MLA considers that training is an
essential means to maintaining standards and the
association provides training and information
through various means.
The Logo depicted below is the one that is
advertised by an approved company on their
premises, vehicles and stationery, confirming to
the public the standards expected of them.
Channels of arbitration exist to fully
investigate any complaints or disputes, should they
arise, and the MLA advises or takes any necessary
action depending on the outcome
MASTER LOCKSMITHS ASSOCIATION
THE KEY TO YOUR SECURITY NEEDS
VETTED
INSPECTED
QUALIFIED
Find your nearest MLA approved locksmith by
contacting the association on 01327 262255 or
visiting www.locksmiths.co.uk
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