VdS classes: certified safes according to EN 1143-1
by Tim Herberger, Fachredaktion bei Bremer Tresor
The term VdS refers to the independent testing institute "VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH." This institute conducts testing according to Europe-wide guidelines using standardized test methods. The primary focus of these tests is burglary protection. In principle, the rule is: the higher the VdS class (security level), the more time it takes to break open the safe, and the better protected the safe's contents are.
At the VdS testing institute, safes are tested against mechanical and thermal burglary tools such as crowbars, drills, sledgehammers, or cutting torches. Which other tools are used for testing remains strictly confidential to prevent imitation. The test result is then certified according to resistance grades. This information is important for the contents of a safe, especially if they are to be insured. VdS classes are therefore synonymous with the tested resistance grade, which is also often referred to as a security level or security class.
VdS classes and insurance coverage amounts
| Security level | Standard | Private use | Commercial use |
|---|---|---|---|
| VdS Class N/0 | EN 1143-1 | €40,000 | €20,000 |
| VdS Class 1 | EN 1143-1 | €65,000 | €40,000 |
| VdS Class 2 | EN 1143-1 | €100,000 | €50,000 |
| VdS Class 3 | EN 1143-1 | €200,000 | €100,000 |
Guideline values of the insurance industry. Your insurer decides on a case-by-case basis; the coverage amount may increase with an intruder alarm system.
The more valuable the items stored in the safe, the higher the VdS class (security level, security class, or resistance grade) should be. A higher security level offers two main advantages that reduce risk:
- Breaking or opening the safe takes significantly longer
- The contents of the safe can be insured for higher amounts
The table above is intended to help you find the appropriate VdS class. The differences between private and commercial use are significant; please take this into account in your planning.
All of our products are fire-resistant due to fire-retardant filling materials. However, sufficient protection against generated heat is not guaranteed in this way, and the resulting temperatures can destroy paper. Would you like to store keepsakes, photos, documents, certificates, or similar items? In that case, we recommend a tested fire protection rating, for example, 60 minutes or 120 minutes. More information on this can be found under Fire protection classes.
Tips for insuring your safe's contents
The security class is the decisive factor for the insurance coverage amount. You should also consider the following valuable tips:
- Ask yourself what requirements the safe needs to fulfill.
- The insurance value can generally be increased by installing intruder alarm systems (EMA).
- Anchor safes if their net weight is under 1,000 kg. You can do this yourself or have our experts do it during delivery. Under no circumstances should you drill into the safe yourself, as this will void the insurance coverage.
- Wall safes do not require a minimum weight as they are intended for permanent installation.
- Always consult your insurance company to avoid unnecessary risks.
Questions about security classes?
If you have questions about security classes, VdS test methods, the security of valuables, weapons, documents, or our exclusively certified products, we are available at any time. You will receive a free consultation.
