Over 30 Years with the MLA: Why It Still Matters to My Business Today

By Mark Radford at Security Masters

I first came into contact with the MLA when I was just 16 or 17 years old. At the time, I was part of a trial training programme run through the engineering department in Croydon. It was the late Tony Clare who led the course. We were sent to college for a week, learning everything from key cutting and lock repairs to stripping safe locks. That experience stuck with me. One of the directors at the time made me a student member and I stayed a student member for nearly ten years before taking my exam in Daventry.

Truth be told, I failed the first time. I’d mainly worked with Bramah locks and wasn’t familiar with some of the others. I still remember being handed the Union Encyclopaedia of Locks, this big brown book that’s got the whole history of locks in it. It was used as the guidebook for the MLA course back then. I still have the book. I went away, studied up, and six months later I passed. Since then, I’ve been a full MLA member for over 30 years.

How MLA Membership Helps My Business

Having MLA membership has always been a big part of how I present my business. The logo itself carries weight. It shows customers that you’re qualified, experienced, and above all, trustworthy. In this trade, trust is everything. You can’t have a criminal record and be an MLA approved locksmith, and the public know that. It reassures people before you’ve even stepped through the door.

When I tender for contracts, being an MLA Approved Company definitely gives me an edge. It’s a mark of quality. You know you’re not just another tradesperson. You’re part of a recognised, respected body.

A Network You Can Rely On

Over the years, I’ve turned to other MLA members when I’ve needed support on particular jobs. It’s great knowing you can reach out to like minded professionals who’ve got the same standards and training. That’s invaluable, especially on the trickier jobs where two heads are better than one. I also pop into the regional meetings every now and then to stay connected and see what’s new in the industry.

Training That Never Stops

I’ve been on more MLA courses than I can count over the past three decades. Safe opening, cylinder pinning, lock opening, you name it, I’ve probably done it. There are also more specialised ones like the abrasive wheel course, which covers safety with cutting tools, and electrical safety training. These aren’t just tick box exercises. They make a real difference when you’re out on site, knowing you’ve been trained properly for the job you’re doing.

Locksmith Training Courses for All Levels

What’s Changed Since Becoming MLA Approved

Having the backing of the MLA has definitely helped us stay current. My wife supports the business from the admin side, and although my son worked with me for a while, it wasn’t his passion. But for me, this is still very much my calling, and MLA membership helps show the public and potential clients that we’re serious about quality. The way the MLA website and blogs work now means we can really showcase our work and our standards, which is great for business.

At the end of the day, locksmithing is hands on, practical work. It’s about being good with your hands, solving problems, and earning trust. The MLA helps you stay sharp, stay certified, and stay respected. And in my experience, that’s made all the difference.

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To find out more about MLA Approved Company Security Masters Ltd, visit Security Masters Profile 

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