Electronic Lock on final Exit

[CivvyFSO]

Am I missing something here? If someone wants a panic fastening to automatically open a door that is held closed electromagnetically, then what is the point of having the door locked electromagnetically?

Also I am glad to see the tide of disapproval of BS9999 rising.

[nearlythere]

............what is the point of having the door locked electromagnetically?

To control entry.

[lyledunn]

Response by Council; Regarding the lock at the front door - "We are looking for a statement of justification as to why this is on and how it is operated and managed. Mag locks or like are usually not permitted but we look at each club on its own merit and will make a decision in relation to our site visit and a justification statement".
On the face of it, I think that this is a fresh and reasonable approach to a thorny problem. It may, however, lead to inconsistency in application. I am aware of very acrimonious disputes between other Clubs and various Councils over this issue. Since Councils concern themselves with the fire safety aspect rather than the security application, one would think that a more definitive and prescriptive stance would need to be taken.
Regards,
Lyle Dunn

[Mr. P]

Security - Not! All you have to do is cut the power to the buildong and any entrances closed by these devices open allowing free access. So, out of opening hours, thats all a thief or other person needs to do to enter.

[CivvyFSO]

............what is the point of having the door locked electromagnetically?

To control entry.

A normal push bar setup controls entry.

[nearlythere]

Response by Council; Regarding the lock at the front door - "We are looking for a statement of justification as to why this is on and how it is operated and managed. Mag locks or like are usually not permitted but we look at each club on its own merit and will make a decision in relation to our site visit and a justification statement".
On the face of it, I think that this is a fresh and reasonable approach to a thorny problem. It may, however, lead to inconsistency in application. I am aware of very acrimonious disputes between other Clubs and various Councils over this issue. Since Councils concern themselves with the fire safety aspect rather than the security application, one would think that a more definitive and prescriptive stance would need to be taken.
Regards,
Lyle Dunn

Lyle
Councils don't want the responsibility of making a decision on matters like this and generally speaking, at least the ones I have worked with, prefer to leave all fire safety matters to the F&R Service. The Service had, before Nov 2010, considered such devices only if a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment has been carried out.

After the initial application and joint inspection for an EL, which the FS would have an input by way of a recommendation report, subsequent annual renewals are done by the Council only. That is unless the council ask for a joint inspection because of a particular issue eg major alterations, extensions, changes to occupancy actor etc. The discovery of a security device such as this on an exit door by the EHO would be one of those times when a joint inspection would be necessary as the means of escape may be affected.

[nearlythere]

............what is the point of having the door locked electromagnetically?

To control entry.

A normal push bar setup controls entry.

Not really Civvy
Many private clubs have door security measures where the door is controlled from a distance by CCTV.
Members may have a means of access by the use of a fob or code but access by visitors would be controlled.
These places would normally require an EL and it's about striking a balance between security and providing adequate means of escape

[CivvyFSO]

............what is the point of having the door locked electromagnetically?

To control entry.

A normal push bar setup controls entry.

Not really Civvy
Many private clubs have door security measures where the door is controlled from a distance by CCTV.
Members may have a means of access by the use of a fob or code but access by visitors would be controlled.
These places would normally require an EL and it's about striking a balance between security and providing adequate means of escape

A good point, well made.