An enclosure's ingress protection depends on its overall design, with locks acting as critical interfaces. Improperly designed cylinders, handles, lock rods, mounting cutouts, and door interfaces can compromise gasket continuity or create vulnerabilities to rain, washdowns, and dust.

Designs must ensure lock placement avoids primary drainage paths and gasket compression zones. Outdoor enclosures must withstand rain, icing, UV exposure, and thermal cycling; indoor industrial units must endure oil mist, dust, and frequent cleaning. The latch's corrosion and temperature resistance must also match the enclosure material and seals.

Operating force should not be excessive, as forcing handles or doors can damage hinges and frames. An optimized design delivers proper door compression during standard operation while allowing authorized personnel to open and close it smoothly on site.