Understanding Fire & Security Ratings
UL ratings are the gold standard for testing safes. They tell you exactly how your safe will perform when faced with extreme conditions — whether that's a fire, a break-in, or both.
What Are UL Ratings?
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is an independent organization that puts safes through rigorous testing. Their ratings aren't marketing fluff — they're earned through real-world simulations using fire, tools, and time limits to prove a safe's resilience.
Understanding the Ratings
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UL TL-15 / TL-30
Tested against advanced burglary tools like drills, grinders, and saws for 15–30 minutes of net working time. Often used commercially or for high-value collections.
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UL 350 Fire Rating
Keeps paper safe below 350°F in extreme heat.
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UL 125 Fire Rating
Protects electronics/media by staying under 125°F.
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You don't have to memorize these — UL ratings are clearly listed on every product page so you can shop with confidence.
Not sure which rating you need?
Our U.S.-based experts can help you choose the right balance of fire and security protection for your needs.
UL Ratings at a Glance
Quick reference for fire and security tiers.
| Rating | What it means | Test/Time/Temp | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UL RSC
|
Basic protection from common tools; pry/impact resistance. | Short forced-entry test. | Home use, moderate risk. |
|
UL TL-15
|
Resists professional tools. | 15 min "net working time" on door/body. | Jewelry, high-value home, small biz. |
|
UL TL-30
|
Higher tool resistance. | 30 min "net working time" on door/body. | Commercial, jewelers, serious collections. |
|
UL 350 (Paper)
|
Keeps interior < 350°F. | Fire endurance test. | Paper documents. |
|
UL 125 (Data)
|
Keeps interior < 125°F. | Fire endurance + humidity control. | Digital media/electronics. |
UL RSC
What it means
Basic protection from common tools; pry/impact resistance.
Test/Time/Temp
Short forced-entry test.
Typical use
Home use, moderate risk.
UL TL-15
What it means
Resists professional tools.
Test/Time/Temp
15 min "net working time" on door/body.
Typical use
Jewelry, high-value home, small biz.
UL TL-30
What it means
Higher tool resistance.
Test/Time/Temp
30 min "net working time" on door/body.
Typical use
Commercial, jewelers, serious collections.
UL 350 (Paper)
What it means
Keeps interior < 350°F.
Test/Time/Temp
Fire endurance test.
Typical use
Paper documents.
UL 125 (Data)
What it means
Keeps interior < 125°F.
Test/Time/Temp
Fire endurance + humidity control.
Typical use
Digital media/electronics.
Net working time = active tool time under test conditions.
