If you're in the market for a high-security safe, you've probably come across the term "TL-30 safe." But what does TL-30 mean? Why should you consider a TL-30 rated safe for your valuables?

In this guide, we'll answer these questions and more, helping you make an informed decision about the best safe for your needs.

What is a TL-30 Safe?

A TL-30 safe is a type of high-security safe that has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent product safety certification organization.

The "TL" in TL-30 stands for "Tool Latency," which refers to the safe's ability to withstand a tool attack for a specific period. The "30" indicates that the safe can resist such an attack for 30 minutes.

What (or Who) are Underwriters Laboratories (UL)?

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a renowned and independent testing agency founded in 1894. Its primary objective is to promote safe living and working environments by providing reliable safety ratings for various products.

UL has been testing safes for burglary resistance since 1923, and their certifications are widely recognized and respected in the industry.

UL has established five commercial burglary ratings to indicate the security level of safes. These ratings, listed from least to most secure, are TL-15, TL-30, TL-30x6, TRTL-30x6, and TRTL-60x6.

Each rating represents a different level of resistance against various tools and attack methods. TL-30 safes offer a higher level of security compared to TL-15 safes, making them even more suitable for protecting high-value items.

Related: The TL-15 Rating Explained

TL-30 Safe Construction Requirements

To meet UL's construction requirements, TL-30 safes must have a UL listed combination lock or a Type 1 Electronic lock and weigh a minimum of 750 lbs, or be designed to anchor to a concrete floor.

The safe's body walls must be made of at least 1-inch open hearth steel with a minimum tensile strength of 50,000 P.S.I. These walls must be fastened securely with continuous ¼-inch penetration welds of similar steel.

Additionally, TL-30 safes must have a concealed hole, ¼-inch or smaller, to accommodate electrical conductors without direct visibility of the door or locking mechanism.

TL-30 Performance Testing Requirements & Procedures

During the TL-30 rating performance testing, the UL engineer team receives the full blueprints of the safe and disassembles it to identify potential weak points.

The engineers then use a combination of manual and electronic tools to attempt to gain access to the safe's interior. The test includes attacking the door and front panel for 30 minutes, with the clock running only during active attack periods.

The engineers must either successfully open the door or create a 6-inch hole within the designated time frame.

If they fail to achieve either of these goals, the safe is awarded a TL-30 rating, indicating its ability to withstand a prolonged tool attack.

If this still doesn't sound like enough resistance, consider the TL-30x6 rating, where the simulated attack is carried out not just on the door of the safe, but all six sides.

Who Needs a TL-30 Safe?

Given their high-security rating, TL-30 safes are ideal safes for businesses and homeowners who need to protect high-value items.

These could include cash, jewelry, proprietary documents, precious metals, or pharmaceutical drugs.

Businesses that could benefit from a TL-30 safe include banks, credit unions, jewelry stores, cannabis dispensaries, and pawn shops.

Buying a TL-30 Safe: What to Consider

When shopping for a TL-30 safe, consider factors like the safe's intended location, your current and future capacity requirements, what type of lock you would prefer and whether or not you'd also like fire protection.

Here at Guardian Safe and Vault, we have TL-30 safes for sale from leading brands in the industry and can assist with full-service delivery and installation if required (these safes can be heavy)!

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need help in choosing the right safe for your needs.

Final Thoughts

Securing your valuables with a TL-30 safe can give you peace of mind, knowing that your valuables are protected by one of the highest security ratings available.

Whether you're a business owner looking to secure cash and sensitive documents or a homeowner wanting to safeguard precious heirlooms, a TL-30 safe is a solid investment in security.