Mag Locks & Electromagnetic Door Locks

Mag locks (electromagnetic door locks) are a smart, reliable way to secure doors in modern buildings. Whether you are managing access to a busy office, protecting a warehouse, or upgrading security in a residential complex, mag locks offer strong holding force, fast release and seamless integration with access control systems. At John Barnes Group, you can buy mag locks online with confidence, knowing you are choosing proven products trusted by security professionals across Brisbane, Queensland, New South Wales and Australia-wide.

Secure, Reliable Holding Power for Modern Access Control

Mag locks use an electromagnetic field to securely hold a door closed when powered, then release instantly when the power is cut via an access control signal or emergency system. This simple, robust design means fewer moving parts, minimal wear and highly reliable performance over time. For busy commercial doors, common-area entries and controlled internal zones, a mag lock is often the preferred choice because it can handle high traffic and frequent operation without the mechanical fatigue that traditional locks may experience.

Because mag locks are typically fail-safe (they unlock on loss of power), they are well-suited to applications where safe emergency egress is essential. When correctly specified and installed in line with local codes, they support both security and life safety – an important consideration for facilities managers, building owners and installers across Australia.

Mag Locks for Front Doors, Internal Doors and External Perimeter Security

Front entry and lobby doors

Mag locks are widely used on front doors and lobby entries in residential apartment buildings, commercial towers, schools and healthcare facilities. Paired with high-quality architectural door hardware from brands like Barben, Dormakaba, Lockwood and Zanda, a mag lock can provide discreet, powerful holding while handles and pull bars handle the daily use and aesthetics. For strata and building managers in Brisbane and across Queensland, mag locks help control who enters the building while still allowing convenient access for residents, staff and visitors through keypads, swipe cards, FOBs or intercom systems.

Internal doors and controlled zones

Inside the building, mag locks are ideal for doors that separate public and staff-only areas, secure plant rooms, IT rooms, store rooms, laboratories and stock areas. They’re equally at home in an office fitout in the Brisbane CBD, an industrial facility in regional Queensland, or a retail back-of-house in New South Wales. Integrating mag locks with your existing access control ensures staff can move efficiently while sensitive areas stay protected.

External gates and emergency exits

Surface-mounted mag locks are also used on external gates, perimeter doors and emergency exits where electronic control is needed. With appropriate weather-resistant models and correct installation, they provide strong holding power while working alongside door closers, panic hardware and exit devices from trusted brands such as Dormakaba and Lockwood. This combination supports both perimeter security and compliance with relevant escape requirements.

Mag Locks for Residential and Commercial Projects

Whether you’re working on a small residential project or a large commercial development, mag locks can be scaled to suit. For residential and mixed-use buildings, they’re often used on main entries, car park access doors and internal lobby doors. Paired with modern, contemporary pull handles from Barben or Zanda in finishes like matte black, stainless steel or brushed brass, you can achieve both premium security and an architectural look that complements your front door or common areas.

In commercial and industrial environments, mag locks shine on high-traffic doors and controlled access points. Facilities managers in warehouses, distribution centres and logistics hubs across Queensland and New South Wales value the clean operation, low maintenance and integration with existing access control, CCTV and alarm systems. From single offices to multi-level corporate fitouts, mag locks help streamline how people move through the building while keeping restricted zones secure.

Because John Barnes Group supports customers Australia-wide, you can standardise on a solution across multiple sites, simplifying maintenance and future upgrades. Our range is curated to suit common Australian door types and commercial door hardware configurations, helping installers and security integrators achieve consistent results from site to site.

Key Features to Look For When You Buy Mag Locks Online

Holding force and door size

One of the most important factors when choosing a mag lock is the holding force required. Lighter internal doors may only need a smaller unit, while external or high-security doors often call for higher holding force ratings. Consider door size, weight, exposure to wind or pressure, and the security level you require. When you buy mag locks online from John Barnes Group, you can browse models with different holding capacities to suit internal, external, residential and commercial applications.

Fail-safe operation and access control compatibility

Most mag locks are fail-safe, meaning they release when power is removed. This is key for many fire and life safety applications. Check that the mag lock you choose is compatible with your access control hardware, including keypads, card readers, intercoms, exit buttons and door monitoring systems. We supply mag locks that work with a wide range of controllers commonly used across Australia, making it easier to integrate into new builds or retrofit projects.

Finishes and architectural hardware integration

Although mag locks themselves are largely functional, they need to work alongside your visible architectural door hardware. When selecting mag locks, think about how they will pair with your chosen levers, pull handles, plates and door closers. Barben, Zanda, Dormakaba and Lockwood all offer modern, premium hardware in finishes such as matte black, polished stainless steel, satin stainless, brass and other contemporary tones. Choosing complementary hardware ensures your front door, internal doors and external entries look cohesive while delivering the level of access control you need.

Mounting style and door configuration

Different door setups may require different mounting brackets or configurations: inward or outward swinging doors, glass doors, aluminium frames, timber frames or gates. The right combination of mag lock body and brackets will ensure correct alignment and holding power. While detailed installation should be handled by a qualified installer or locksmith, it is helpful to consider your door type and frame construction when selecting a product online.

Installation and Compliance Considerations

For safe, reliable operation, mag locks must be installed correctly and configured with the building’s life safety systems. In many cases, this means engaging a licensed electrician, security technician or locksmith familiar with local regulations in Queensland and New South Wales. They will ensure the mag lock is wired to release appropriately on fire alarm or emergency conditions and that the door hardware combination meets relevant Australian standards and guidelines.

When planning a project, think about the complete door system: mag lock, door closer, hinges, handles, exit hardware and access control devices. Brands like Dormakaba and Lockwood offer coordinated solutions that help ensure the door operates smoothly while satisfying both security and egress requirements. John Barnes Group can assist with product selection to match your project’s performance, safety and aesthetic needs.

Mag Locks Australia-Wide, Backed by Local Expertise

From Brisbane-based projects through to regional Queensland, metropolitan New South Wales and beyond, John Barnes Group supplies mag locks and architectural door hardware Australia-wide. Our team understands local building practices and door hardware standards, and we stock products to suit common Australian door sizes and frame materials. Whether you are upgrading a single front door, fitting out a multi-level office, or standardising hardware across a national property portfolio, you can source mag locks and complementary hardware from one trusted supplier.

Order online and have mag locks delivered to site, or work with our team to plan a larger schedule of door hardware that includes Barben, Zanda, Dormakaba and Lockwood components. With the right mix of mag locks and matching hardware, you can achieve secure, modern and visually cohesive doors throughout your building.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mag lock and how does it work?

A mag lock, or electromagnetic lock, uses an electric current to create a magnetic field between a magnet (mounted on the frame) and an armature plate (mounted on the door). When powered, the magnet attracts the plate and holds the door closed with significant force. When power is removed via the access control system or emergency release, the magnetic field collapses and the door can open freely.

Are mag locks suitable for residential front doors?

Yes, mag locks can be used on residential front doors, especially in multi-residential buildings such as apartments and townhouses where controlled entry is required. They are often paired with architectural pull handles and levers from brands like Barben, Zanda and Lockwood to create a modern, premium entrance that integrates smoothly with intercoms, keypads or card readers.

Do mag locks meet Australian building and fire safety requirements?

Mag locks can form part of a compliant door system when they are correctly specified and installed in accordance with Australian building and fire safety requirements. They must typically be connected to emergency release devices and may need to interface with fire alarm systems. Always consult with your fire engineer, certifier or a qualified installer familiar with local codes in Queensland, New South Wales and other states to ensure your specific installation is compliant.

Can I integrate mag locks with my existing access control system?

In most cases, yes. Mag locks are widely used with common access control systems, including keypads, swipe and proximity card readers, biometric readers and intercom-controlled relays. As long as your controller can provide suitable power and switching for the lock, integration is usually straightforward. If you are unsure, your security integrator or electrician can confirm compatibility before installation.

Are mag locks fail-safe or fail-secure?

Most standard mag locks are fail-safe, which means they unlock when power is removed. This characteristic is often important for doors that must allow free egress during an emergency. For areas where a fail-secure solution is required, other types of electric locks or strikes may be more appropriate. Your hardware specialist can help you select the right solution based on your security and life safety needs.

Who should install a mag lock?

Because mag locks involve both electrical wiring and life safety considerations, they should be installed by a qualified professional, such as a licensed electrician, security technician or locksmith. A professional installer will ensure the lock is correctly aligned, securely fixed, wired according to regulations and integrated with any emergency release or fire systems as required.

Can mag locks be used on glass doors and aluminium frames?

Yes, mag locks can be used on many different door and frame types, including glass and aluminium, provided the correct brackets and hardware are chosen. There are specialist mounting accessories to suit frameless glass doors, narrow aluminium frames and other challenging configurations. When buying mag locks online, review the specifications and recommended brackets, or discuss your door details with a hardware specialist before ordering.

Do you supply mag locks outside Brisbane?

Yes. While John Barnes Group has strong roots in Brisbane and Queensland, we supply mag locks and door hardware to customers throughout New South Wales and Australia-wide. You can order online for delivery to your site or project location, making it easy to standardise on reliable mag locks and matching architectural hardware across multiple properties.

Why Choose John Barnes Group?

John Barnes Group combines decades of door hardware experience with a carefully selected range of mag locks and architectural hardware that suits Australian conditions and building practices. From Barben and Zanda designer handles to Dormakaba and Lockwood access control and locking solutions, we bring together trusted brands under one roof. Our team supports projects across Brisbane, Queensland, New South Wales and Australia-wide, helping you choose mag locks and complementary hardware that deliver security, reliability and a modern, cohesive look on every door.