The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the UK’s largest trade association for locksmiths & a non-profit making body; established to set and promote standards of conduct, practice and materials within locksmithing.

UK’s Largest Locksmith association

Standards of entry to the MLA are high and its motto of “Skill and Integrity” emphasise its determination to ensure that the public, government and industry receive the correct service and advice on security matters from its members.

Founded in 1958

From a small friendly meeting of ‘like-minded’ locksmiths in London, it has evolved into the professional organisation that it is today.

The first meeting group instigated the embryonic Master Locksmiths Association in 1958 and in 1986 it became a limited company. 1994 saw a major restructure and now the membership is worldwide.

The MLA encourages its members to further their knowledge through ongoing education, regional meetings, seminars and the information disseminated through its membership magazine Keyways.

Authoritative body for UK locksmithing by: –

The Police
Many forces will encourage those in need of a locksmith to use MLA Trade Division members.
Police Forces nationwide referring to the MLA for home security and to use an MLA approved locksmith include Met Police, AskThePolice
Official Police Security Initiative Secured by Design

Neighbourhood Watch
The use of a MLA Approved Locksmith is recommend by Neighbourhood Watch

Home Office
The MLA has been instrumental in campaigning for national standards in the locksmith industry and the regulation (through licensing) of the Private Security Industry.

British Standards Institute (BSI)
The MLA supplies a panel of its members to assess locks under BS3621 clauses 4 and I 0 on their behalf.

Other Trade and Professional Bodies 
Many other trades and professional bodies such as DHF,  RISCAuthority, Building Research Establishment (BRE) all acknowledge the MLA as the authoritative body in its’ field.

The European Locksmiths Federation
The MLA represents the UK locksmithing industry.

Website Link

You can visit our member page at the MLA here

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