Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct choice states that fail-safe systems open during a power outage, while fail-secure systems lock down in the same situation. This accurately reflects the primary distinction between the two types of systems.

Fail-safe systems are designed with safety in mind, allowing doors to unlock and provide egress in emergencies, such as power loss. This ensures that people can exit a building or space without impediments. This function is particularly important in environments like hospitals or public buildings where human safety is paramount.

On the other hand, fail-secure systems are intended to enhance security by remaining locked during a power failure. This characteristic is vital for securing sensitive areas, preventing unauthorized access even when electrical systems are down. Thus, while both systems are designed to respond to power changes, they do so in opposite ways to serve distinct purposes—safety versus security.

The other options either misstate how power impacts the locking mechanisms or incorrectly characterize the operational requirements of fail-safe and fail-secure systems. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate system based on safety and security needs in various applications.