North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

What does positive latching refer to?

1. The automatic locking of a door when closed

2. The requirement for manual operation of the latch or bolt

3. Locking without the need for a key

4. Using a secondary locking mechanism

The correct answer is: The requirement for manual operation of the latch or bolt

Positive latching refers to a mechanism where the latch or bolt must be manually operated to engage or disengage, ensuring that the door is securely closed. This means that even if the door is shut, it will not automatically lock unless the latch or bolt is physically moved into position. This manual operation provides an additional layer of security, as it prevents accidental locking when the door is merely closed without the intent to secure it. The idea behind positive latching is to give users control over the locking mechanism, allowing them to decide when to engage or disengage the lock, which is particularly important in situations where quick access is needed or where inadvertent locking would be a risk. Other choices describe different mechanisms that do not align with the specific nature of positive latching. Automatic locking, for instance, involves a latch that engages without manual effort, and locking without a key typically pertains to keyless entry systems rather than the manual control emphasized in positive latching. Using a secondary locking mechanism suggests an additional layer on top of the primary latching system, which does not represent the concept of positive latching itself.