J
J. Sloud
- Jan 1, 1970
- 0
Frank,Go with mag locks. Clear the installation with the local AHJ. If security
is an issue then power the locks from a stand-by power supply. I'm not a
huge fan of motion activated door releases like the "T-Rex", particularily
where "security" is a concern. I know if I was walking up to a glass door
to leave my residence and saw a rather unsavory character lurking about
outside, I wouldn't want the door to open unless *I* was the one making that
decision (ie. use a request to exit button). A "T-Rex" takes that choice
away from you as soon as you approach the door. This is an issue that we've
actually managed to get variances on from the AHJ, but you have to talk to
them and clear it first!! Most AHJ's won't "bend" on the issue of
connecting the lock to the fire alarm so that the doors open in a fire
emergency though, so don't even try. )
in the United States, according to NFPA101 Life Safety Code, you must
have a REX motion. Specifically it says that the door must
automatically release from the egress side as a person approaches.
You also have to have a manual means of shunting power to the mag that
is clearly labeled "Push to Exit." Nothing else meets code. Period.
As for local AHJ's: Doing what they say may not be enough. Many
don't know crap, and you do not automatically remove yourself from
liability claims just because some local fire marshal said something
was okay. At least get it in writing.