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» THE AMENDMENT features an expert commentary that will accompany the standard so that it will now directly refer to ‘ BS EN 13637 Building hardware - Electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes ’ in respect of any electrically locked door on an escape route .
BS 7273 pt4:2015 covers the operation and release of electronically controlled escape doors , setting out recommendations for the specification , installation , commissioning , and maintenance of the electrical control arrangements to actuate mechanisms that unlock , release or open doors in the event of a fire .
The new expert commentary introduces a safe means of securing escape doors against unauthorised use , whether for general access control management such as read-in
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and read-out control or to improve security to prevent theft or terrorism etc .
A BS EN 13637 Exit system will achieve a best practice , safe and compliant solution in respect of current building regulations , without impeding the building occupant ’ s ability to escape in a real emergency .
The use of an EN 13637 Exit system provides full compliance with building regulations with a solution that is designed specifically for the purposes of electrically controlling an escape door , with state-of-the-art equipment with the durability of the ability to release proven , which satisfies the requirements to prove materials are fit for purpose and designed for the application .
Building owners must ensure their building is safe for all occupants , at all times , this means ensuring that all
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occupants can safely escape , and that the integrity of the fire compartmentation is maintained within the building .
The BS EN 13637 performance standard for an Escape Door System ( EDS ) ensures performance testing of the whole system and the individual components and consists of the electric locking device , the actuation element ( push button , emergency release or touch bar etc .), and the system ’ s control element .
An EDS system incorporates self-monitoring to ensure no fault or component failure could keep the door locked . The EDS controller manages all integrated inputs from 3rd party systems such as access control and ensures that the default status is always to fail unlocked .
All system components must have been tested together and be compatible as a complete solution , installed following the manufacturer ’ s instructions . Substitutions are only permitted for any components if they fall under the scope of the initial testing .
The amendment creates a safer solution for electrified doors than the traditional Green
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Emergency Break glass type solution we have been used to , overcoming many of the issues that have previously resulted in a failure to release the door .
Roy Buckingham DipGAI , Regional Specification Development Manager for London & South East at Abloy UK , comments : “ We wholeheartedly support the decision by the BSI to make this amendment to BS 7273 : pt 4 .
“ The modification of BS7273 is a positive step forward in improving buildings safety . Previously , the standard was in conflict , and that caused confusion throughout the industry .
“ The standard now aligns with BS EN 13637 , which is a more complete solution for electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes . This is a fundamental change to the industry , and Abloy UK is available as trusted advisor on this and all other issues of access control compliance .”
For further information on products and services available from Abloy , visit https :// bit . ly / 44gmZeU , call 01902 364 500 , or email info @ abloy . co . uk
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