Emergency Exit Hardware
0161 839 0201
Your Safety Responsibilities
We can install, service and inspect any emergency exit hardware to ensure it’s up to regulation codes – call us today!
Keeping up to date with the regulations
Apart from the 2005 Regulatory Reform Order there have been several other regulations that apply to Emergency Exit Hardware, including the BS EN 1125 and BS EN179 the Standards for Emergency Exit Hardware. Originally European Standards they have now been incorporated into the new UK Conformity Assessed scheme which came into force in Jan 2021. All of which means it is essential to ensure commercial buildings comply with the necessary standards.
There are 2 distinct risk levels that need to be considered before fitting any sort of emergency exit hardware. The risk varies between whether there are people who are unfamiliar with the operation of the device, e.g. members of the public, or only people who are familiar with the operation of the device, e.g. trained members of staff.
If there is a risk of panic than the door needs a panic bar, covering at least 60% of the door’s width and certified to BS EN1125. If a panic will not occur then a push pad or lever handle exit device is acceptable, as long as it is certified to BS EN179.
Whichever device is used it must have been tested to the relevant standard, as must any ancillary fitting used such as an outside access device. The DHF Code of Practice gives a good background in to the differences between the two Standards
There are a great many buildings out there with emergency exit devices that are unsafe as they; do not meet the latest Standards; have linking pieces on double doors; or have been badly repaired using non-manufacturers’ components
CTML has the expertise to be able to advise you, as well as supply and fit the correct hardware. Many years ago, at a Master Locksmiths Association meeting it was stated by a Fire safety Officer that “security is an insurance requirement but safety is a legal requirement and, in court, I win every time!” If you bear that in mind you won’t go far wrong
Don’t put yourself at risk – call us now on 0161 839 0201 for friendly, expert, advice.
EMERGENCY EXIT HARDWARE FAQs
What is the difference between EN 179 and EN 1125?
The Standards relate to different levels of risk in use. EN 1125 is for areas where a panic is likely to, or may, occur and EN 179 is for areas where a panic will not occur. If it’s a public area then EN 1125 applies and it must be a panic bar. If it’s an office or industrial building where a panic will not occur and people are familiar with the means of escape then EN 179 applies
EN1125 is for a panic bar installation and EN 179 allows for a push pad or lever handle device
What is a panic bar?
A panic bar is a device that allows for emergency escape from an area. To meet the Standard the horizontal operating bar must cover at least 60% of the door’s width.
The bars can either lock horizontally in a single point, horizontally as a multiple locking device or vertically There are two styles of panic bar, traditional and pullman latch.
What is a push pad?
A push pad is an emergency exit device that uses a small paddle handle as the actuator. Most often it uses a single point latch for securing the door, however it can also be supplied to lock in multiple points
How do you fit a panic bar?
If the door is a single door then the panic bar can lock horizontally in one point as a panic latch or in multiple points for more security.
If it is to be fitted to double doors then there are 2 possible configurations depending on whether the doors are rebated. If the doors are rebated then the first opening leaf requires a panic latch that locks horizontally onto the second opening leaf. The second opening leaf then has a panic bar locking vertically to the top and bottom. That way whichever bar is operated at least one door will open.
If the doors are not rebated then 2 vertical locking bars can be used
How do I know which Standard to apply?
If in doubt opt for EN 1125 as it makes escape from a building safe without the need to know how it works. Simply running into a door will unlock it and allow for escape.
If you’re still unsure, call CTML and we can give advice over the phone or carry out a free site survey and supply and fit the correct device, for complete peace of mind.
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CTML SERVICES
MANCHESTER EMERGENCY EXIT HARDWARE
OPENING TIMES
Monday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Tuesday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Wednesday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Thursday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Friday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
