Fire Doors and hardware

[labrador]

Can anyone please help with the following, or give me some direction were to look for the following. " What are the Generic criteria for door fastenings on doors on escape routes" and also the BS number and full title of the standard with which the recommended hardware should comply.
What terminology is used to define the times at which doors on escape routes must be readily openable without the use of a key.
If anyone can give me a small part of the above questions it would be of a great help.

[Dehavilland]

Not aware of a specific BS for door hardware.  Check the relevant part of BS476 or contract TRADA.
As far as times are concerned the local authority fire brigade used the phrase 'easily and immediately openable without the use of a key'.  Clearly a break-glass bolt or similar does not render the door immediately available, but common sense should prevail.  In assessing the risk one should pay due regard to population - numbers and type i.e. general public, staff etc.  That is what risk assessment is all about isn't it?

[AnthonyB]

Theres a lot of industry advice including a comprehensive document by the Achitectural Ironmongers association.

BSEN are usually for the specific device rather than choosing. As said a number of factors are to be taken into account as well as being aware of older technology still in use (winchester bolts, latch behond glass, etc).

You most commonly see 4 types pof set up in newer or refurb buildings:
- electromagnetic security locks with up to 3 way failsafe (power loss, alarm interface, local break glass override)
- Escape Mortice Deadlocks (thumbturn on inside)
- Panic pads (staff use only)
- Panic bars (latch or bolt usually for public areas or use by over 50 person)

A host of different simple fastenings are to be found, winchester, ashworth & redlam bolts, ASSA & Union Domes, etc

The only no no for me is the key in glass fronted box - examples of its fatal drawbacks are found in the Summerland & Woolworths fire reports