Summer 2010 Newsletter
Mag Lock Access-Controlled Doors:
Do Yours Meet Code?
Access control systems use various types of locks to secure doors. Door strikes, electrified handsets and mag locks are the most commonly used electrical locking devices in use today.
Life safety codes require free egress on access-controlled doors at all times. Different door locks have different requirements. For example, door strikes and electrified handsets provide free mechanical egress at all times by simply turning the door handle or knob.
Mag locks, however, operate on a different principle in that they do not directly integrate into the door locking hardware to provide free mechanical egress. Mag locks need special consideration for safe and free egress methods, and they have different egress rules as required by code.
Generally speaking, an exit door that is secured by a mag lock is required to have three specific means of egress:
• An exit motion sensor that unlocks the door upon a person approaching the door to exit.
• A manual release button at the door which unlocks the door for 30 seconds when depressed.
• An interface into the fire alarm system, which interrupts the lock power during a fire alarm.
Your local Fire Marshal or authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) has the final word on interpreting and applying life safety codes. Will Electronics’ technicians work with these professionals on a regular basis.
Do your doors meet all the applicable life safety codes? If not, your business could be at risk of facing considerable liability issues. You need to know, and Will Electronics can help you determine if your door locks are up to code. Contact a Will Electronics Account Manager today for a free inspection of your doors’ access control systems.
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Do your doors meet all the applicable life safety codes?
Will Electronics can help you determine if your door locks are up to code.