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Locker Lock Identification Guide UK

Different locker lock types with locker keys, cams and lock identification details for replacement locker lock compatibility and locker key identification in the UK

Correct locker lock identification helps you order the right replacement keys, replacement locks, cams, barrels and lock parts. It also helps avoid wrong-key orders, poor lock fit and unnecessary locker damage.

This UK guide explains how to identify common locker locks used in schools, workplaces, gyms, leisure centres, healthcare sites, warehouses and commercial changing rooms.

Quick answer: how do you identify a locker lock?

To identify a locker lock, check the lock face, key number, brand, lock type, cam shape, fixing hole, door thickness and how the locker is used. Clear photos of the front and rear of the lock are often enough to confirm whether you need a replacement key, replacement lock or compatible lock part.

Identification pointWhat to checkWhy it matters
Lock faceBrand, code and keywayHelps identify the lock range
Key numberCode on key or lockNeeded for replacement keys
Lock typeKeyed, hasp, coin, combination, RFIDShows the correct replacement route
CamLength, shape and offsetControls how the door locks
Fixing holeRound, square, double-D or shapedAffects replacement lock fit
Door thicknessMeasure the locker doorEnsures the lock body fits securely

1. Identify the locker lock type

The first step is to identify the lock type. Locker locks may look similar from a distance, but they operate in different ways.

Keyed cam lock

A keyed cam lock uses a key to rotate a metal cam behind the locker frame. It is one of the most common locker lock types in UK workplaces, schools and staff changing areas.

Hasp lock

A hasp lock allows the user to fit their own padlock. It is common where sites want users to bring their own padlocks or where simple shared access is needed.

Coin return lock

A coin return lock uses a coin or token to operate the locker. The coin is returned when the locker is unlocked. This is common in gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools.

Coin retain lock

A coin retain lock keeps the coin after use. It is used where locker use is charged or controlled commercially.

Mechanical combination lock

A mechanical combination lock uses a number code instead of a key. It may be fixed to the locker door or fitted as a padlock-style unit.

Digital or RFID locker lock

Digital and RFID locker locks may use PINs, cards, fobs, wristbands or management credentials. Identification may require the lock model, battery access, override method and management system details.

2. Check the lock face

The lock face is the visible part on the outside of the locker door. It may show the brand, key number, lock series or other useful markings.

  • Look for a code around the key slot.
  • Check for a brand name or logo.
  • Look at the keyway shape.
  • Check whether the face is round, oval, square or rectangular.
  • Take a clear close-up photo before removing the lock.

If the lock face has a readable number, a replacement key may be possible. For key-code support, see our Locker Key Number Guide UK.

3. Find the key number or lock code

The key number is one of the most important identification details. It may appear on the key, lock face, lock barrel, spare key tag or site key register.

Where to lookWhat you may find
Key headStamped or printed key number
Lock faceCode around or below the key slot
Lock barrelCode on side or rear of barrel
Key registerLocker number matched to key code
Old paperworkPrevious key or lock reference

Do not assume the locker door number is the key number. They are often different.

4. Identify the lock brand

Some locker locks show a brand on the lock face, key head, barrel or rear body. Brand identification helps confirm key ranges, lock compatibility and replacement parts.

  • Lowe & Fletcher locker keys and locks.
  • Ojmar locker keys and coin locks.
  • Ronis locker keys and cylinders.
  • Eurolocks locker locks.
  • Assa, Abloy or specialist locker systems.
  • Unbranded or imported locker locks.

For brand-specific support, see our guides for Lowe & Fletcher Locker Keys UK, Ojmar Locker Keys UK and Ronis Locker Keys UK.

5. Check the cam on the rear of the lock

The cam is the metal arm behind many keyed locker locks. It rotates when the key turns and secures the locker door behind the frame.

Cam details are important because two locks can look similar from the front but use different cams at the rear.

Cam detailWhy it matters
Straight camCommon on simple locker frames
Cranked camUsed where the locking point is offset
Short camMay suit narrow door returns
Long camMay be needed for deeper frames
Cam offsetAffects door closure and security
Cam fixingMust match the lock body or spindle

6. Measure the door and fixing hole

If you are replacing the complete lock, measurements matter. A replacement lock must fit the door, fixing hole and rear clearance.

  • Measure the door thickness in millimetres.
  • Measure the fixing hole width or diameter.
  • Check whether the hole is round, square or double-D shaped.
  • Measure the lock body depth behind the door.
  • Check there is space for the cam to rotate.
  • Check whether the cam lines up with the locker frame.

For detailed replacement checks, see our Locker Lock Compatibility Guide UK.

7. Identify how the locker is used

The right replacement lock depends on the use case. A staff locker, school locker, gym locker and visitor locker may need different access control.

Use caseCommon lock choice
Assigned staff lockerKeyed cam lock or digital lock
Student lockerKeyed lock, hasp lock or combination lock
Gym changing roomCoin lock, hasp lock, RFID or digital lock
Visitor lockerShared-use combination, coin or RFID lock
PPE lockerKeyed, hasp or controlled access lock
Wet area lockerCorrosion-resistant coin, RFID or hasp system

8. Take the right photos for lock identification

Good photos can speed up identification and reduce ordering errors.

  • Full locker door photo.
  • Close-up of the lock face.
  • Close-up of any visible number.
  • Photo of the key, if available.
  • Photo of the rear of the lock.
  • Photo of the cam in locked and unlocked positions.
  • Photo of the fixing hole if the lock has been removed.

If you manage a large site, label the photos by room, locker bank and locker number.

Replacement key or replacement lock?

Once the lock is identified, decide whether a replacement key is enough or whether the complete lock should be replaced.

Choose a replacement key whenChoose a replacement lock when
The key code is knownNo code can be found
The lock works smoothlyThe lock is seized or damaged
The cam still secures the doorThe cam is bent or missing
The site wants to keep the same lock systemThe site wants to change access type
Only spare keys are neededThe lock has been forced or vandalised

Common locker lock identification problems

Locker locks can become difficult to identify when numbers wear away, keys are lost or several lock types have been fitted over time.

ProblemLikely next step
No key number visibleCheck the lock face and site records
Key lostCheck for a lock face code
Lock has no brandUse photos, keyway shape and dimensions
Old lock is obsoleteReplace the lock and cam together
Replacement lock does not fitCheck fixing hole, cam and door thickness
Master key no longer worksCheck whether the lock was changed outside the master system

Locker lock identification for schools

Schools often need lock identification for lost student keys, damaged locks, mixed locker banks and summer maintenance projects. A simple lock register helps site teams avoid repeated identification work.

  • Record locker number and key number separately.
  • Record lock brand and type.
  • Keep spare keys controlled.
  • Check damaged locks during holidays.
  • Standardise lock types where practical.

Locker lock identification for workplaces

Workplaces may need lock identification for staff lockers, PPE lockers, uniform lockers and changing room lockers. Correct identification helps facilities teams order the right parts and maintain access control.

Locker lock identification for gyms and leisure centres

Gyms and leisure centres may use keyed locks, coin locks, padlock hasps, RFID locks or wristband systems. Identification should include the lock type, coin mechanism, wet-area suitability and any master or service key requirements.

Create a locker lock register

A locker lock register helps large sites manage keys, replacement locks, master keys and maintenance records.

Register fieldPurpose
Locker numberIdentifies the door or compartment
LocationShows room, building or locker bank
Lock typeKeyed, hasp, coin, combination, RFID or digital
BrandSupports replacement key and part identification
Key codeSupports replacement key ordering
Cam typeSupports lock compatibility
Master key groupSupports authorised access control
ConditionShows repair or replacement priority

FAQ: locker lock identification

How do I know what locker lock I have?

Check the lock face, key code, brand, lock type, rear cam and fixing hole. Clear photos of the front and rear of the lock usually help identify the next step.

Can I identify a locker lock without the key?

Often, yes. Check the lock face for a number or brand. If the number is visible, a replacement key may still be possible.

Is the locker number the same as the lock code?

Not usually. The locker number identifies the door. The lock code or key number identifies the replacement key.

What photos should I send to identify a locker lock?

Send a photo of the full locker door, close-up of the lock face, close-up of any code, the key if available, and the rear cam if the door is open.

Can any locker lock be replaced with any other lock?

No. Replacement locks must match the fixing hole, door thickness, cam position, lock body depth and access requirements.

Need help identifying a locker lock?

Total Locker Service can help with locker lock identification, replacement locker keys, replacement locks and lock parts. Take clear photos, record any visible code and confirm the locker location before ordering.


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