Author Topic: Secure Exits (Read 6374 times)

Gasmeter · « **on:** November 10, 2006, 10:36:31 AM »

When secure areas within a building are evacuated, there's a risk that unauthorised people can enter through the still open fire exits; our usual solution is to instruct the last person to leave (usually an evacuation warden) to secure the door as they go. I know this can present a problem for firefighters, but nothing a large axe can't fix! I've been asked for a technical solution to this in relation to a very sensitive secure area on the 7th and 8th (top) floors of a building. As things stand the doors (storey exits) will close automatically after a set period and be openable by a 'green button' from within; I think this is fine but am curious to hear of other solutions.

BikerJohn · « **Reply #1 on:** November 10, 2006, 07:19:35 PM »

What ever you do keep it simple, if the building really is on fire things relying on electricity are lilely to start failing so consider things such as digital locks which if you want to let the Fire Service in and save the door from the Axe! you can give them the code. The lock is purely manual so will not fail with electrics and i am pretty sure you could connect a push pad on the inside.

Ken Taylor · « **Reply #2 on:** November 12, 2006, 11:22:04 PM »

If the numbered key-pad is itself a security risk, it tends to be down to the key operation externally (with internal push-pad, etc) with keys in the possession of 'key persons' (pardon the pun) - and if this arrangement fails, back to the axe.

Mike Buckley · « **Reply #3 on:** November 13, 2006, 04:37:52 PM »

Have you thought of a handle behind a breakglass panel. I assume that the doors are intruder alarmed so any attempt to break in will activate the alarm.

You haven't said exactly what is in the secure area, however try turning the problem on its head. Instead of thinking of methods to allow the Fire Service to gain rapid access, why not introduce fire surpressant systems that will put out any fire in the secure area hence removing the need for rapid access?

Gasmeter · « **Reply #4 on:** November 16, 2006, 10:09:51 AM »

Thanks for your thoughts; I like the idea of a mechanical keypad, we can't use automatic suppression for this area partly because of the expense due to its size

Ken Taylor · « **Reply #5 on:** November 16, 2006, 06:02:25 PM »

Just be careful as to who gets hold of the access codes and consider regular changes if you are going for that option. It can be a problem with ex-employees, persons looking over others' shoulders whilst using key-pads, etc.

BikerJohn · « **Reply #6 on:** November 16, 2006, 07:36:36 PM »

Thats what makes mechanical keypads so good, you can change the code when ever you like unlike the cost of having new barrells and keys cut.

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Author Topic: Secure Exits (Read 6374 times)