The Difference Between Grade 1, 2 and 3 Intruder Alarms for Your Business

Intruder alarms are a popular and generally reliable means of detecting and raising an alarm when unwanted intruders enter a property. 

There are several ways intruder alarms are used to detect intruders. These can include motion detection, sensors installed at a building’s entry points and sensors installed around the perimeter of the whole premises.

In the UK and Europe, such intruder alarms are graded into four categories under the European Standard EN 50131. The grade allocated to an alarm system will depend on the level of sophistication of the equipment, which represents the level of security being offered – the higher the grade, the better the security provided by that device. 

It’s worth noting that no matter how sophisticated the majority of elements or components in one system, the overall system is graded according to the least sophisticated element, because that will make it more vulnerable than it would be if all elements were of the higher standard.

These are the three main categories under EN 50131 – Grade 4 is for very high risk properties and isn’t commonly available because of the high standards required of such systems.

Grade 1 intruder alarms

A grade 1 intruder alarm is the type of system typically installed in domestic properties and other premises where it is unlikely that the property in question will be actively targeted by criminals (as opposed to opportunistic thieves). 

A grade 1 system works on the basis that any intruder is unlikely to have the knowledge, experience or tools to disable even the most rudimentary alarm system.

Grade 2 intruder alarms

A grade 2 intruder alarm will be installed in properties where there is a higher risk of targeted intrusion owing to valuables being left on site. This sort of property is likely to be of interest to experienced thieves – the sort who may carry tools with them and be able to disable basic systems.

Grade 3 intruder alarms

A grade 3 intruder alarm is used in premises where there are likely to be goods or other items of high value and which represent a substantial risk of being targeted by experienced criminals using a variety of tools and openings to bypass the system.

What type of intruder alarm do I need?

Grade 1: domestic properties where there is no insurance requirement for an intruder alarm.

Grade 2: most domestic properties and low-risk commercial properties. Note that wireless systems cannot be rated any higher than Grade 2.

Grade 3: high-risk domestic properties and most commercial premises. Note that to qualify as a Grade 3 system, it has to be hardwired – a wireless system cannot be Grade 3.

If you’re not sure which grade would be most suitable for your premises, the best thing to do is get in an expert to carry out a risk assessment. 

Here at Scutum London, we’re experienced at designing, supplying, installing and maintaining all kinds of commercial security systems, including Grades 1-3 of intruder alarms. Our expert team can carry out a detailed assessment of your premises and make an informed recommendation for your best solution.

Get in touch now to find out more, or to arrange a free site visit and competitive quotation.