Some hardware applications are tough to explain with photos, and a video can be really helpful. In case any of you ever need to explain how overhead stops work, I made you a video! 🙂
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The IBC states: Doors in the means of egress shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Do you think this door is “readily distinguishable”? WWYD?
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I’d love to know what the fire marshal in Oklahoma City had to say about the plan for this concert! There were 100 space bubbles – each holding 1-3 people. Egress concerns, anyone? #wordless
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The access control hardware on your project is up and running (phew!), and then you are asked to provide evidence that every piece of electrified hardware on the job is listed to UL 294… (updated with 2021 code references)
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How do you identify the products that are acceptable for use in a hurricane-prone area of the country? What’s the latest on classroom security devices? How do codes define panic hardware? Find out in this week’s classes!
Timmy Jackson posted today’s Fixed-it Friday photo on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page. I think it’s about time to upgrade to the 2021 model, don’t you?
Several colleges and universities approached Allegion to find a solution for individual lockdown of doors with panic hardware and access control. For doors with Von Duprin QEL devices, the Emergency Secure Lockdown (ESL) feature is the answer.
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo is from Brian Mead. I think the emergency exits for retail stores look like this more often than not…we just don’t usually see them. Make a point of looking, and if you see something, say something!
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It’s almost swimming pool season! I have updated a past blog post about changes to doors serving pools, spas, and hot tubs to be published as my next Decoded column in Door Security + Safety Magazine.
Can a wave-to-open switch be used to actuate an automatic operator? Does the IBC allow any stairwell doors to be locked mechanically? What’s new in codes for health care facilities? Find out in this week’s classes!
For many exterior doors, a door position switch (DPS) is an important part of the security system; the switch can alert a security station that a door has been opened. I wonder how long this creative fix will continue functioning.
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Last week I answered a Quick Question about whether a listed threshold could be used to reduce excessive clearance at the bottom of a fire door. I always appreciate the heads-ups when I make a typo, but this time I didn’t! 🙂
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Stuart Hurwitz shared today’s Wordless Wednesday photo with me…yet another retail store where the manager has no idea that egress doors need to be visible and the means of egress must be clear.
I have written dozens of articles and blog posts on school safety and security, but it’s extra-exciting when someone else writes about this topic and is in alignment with the safety requirements mandated by the model codes.
How much do you know about the model code requirements for doors with delayed egress locks or controlled egress locks? Here’s a short quiz to help you find out.
For years, I have loved the locks on the restroom stall doors in one of my favorite restaurants, but I don’t think I’ve shared them here before. (I know…it’s a weird thing to love.)
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Last week I wrote about a fire in a Queens apartment building, where an open door allowed a fire to spread. FDNY shared a video that shows some of the interior of the building after the fire that left more than 200 people homeless.
I received today’s Wordless Wednesday photos from an AHJ, who will remain anonymous. During an inspection, he found this water heater enclosure. But what’s that thing sitting on the pipe behind the vent?
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Today’s Quick Question: Can a threshold be used to address oversized clearance at the bottom of a fire door? What do you think?
We’ve got you covered! Up this week…Security in 30 for integrators, a webinar on the ABCs of Access Control that offers AIA CEUs, Allegion 101 for newcomers, and 4 Webinar Wednesday classes.
The Fixed-it Friday fun never ends! I received today’s photos from Paul Linder of Hill’s Bros. Lock & Safe, Inc., who had nothing to do with the original installation but was called in to fix the problem.
I like to think that I’m pretty even-tempered…I don’t get mad very often (and when I do – RUN). But every time I see an apartment fire where the door was left open as the apartment residents escaped, I feel even more frustrated and angry.
Debbie White of Allegion sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo, which she received from a friend. I love it when my friends send me door photos…hopefully I’ll be getting more as we can safely start to travel again! Hint, hint. 🙂
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Following up on last week’s post about the new requirement for auto operators in certain locations, today’s quick question: What types of buildings fall into the use groups where automatic operators are required for public entrances?
The next series of Allegion 101 begins tomorrow, Webinar Wednesday continues with 4 classes available this week, and next week there’s a live presentation on the ABCs of Access Control that offers AIA credit.
Following up on Wednesday’s restroom post…any theories on the situation in this restroom? It’s Fixed-it Friday but I’m not sure what they were fixing with this application. Thanks to Charles Anderson for the photos!
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I wrote about this change during the 2021 code development cycle, but this post includes the new excerpt from the IBC that requires automatic operators at public entrances. This would be an expensive miss on a project, so just a heads-up.
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This Wordless Wednesday photo brings back bad memories of my brothers locking me in closets and other dark and scary places. I’d love to know why this door is lockable from the outside…any ideas?
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In my opinion, removing the fire door assembly inspection requirements through a state modification of the model codes is detrimental to the safety of building occupants. What do you think?
Stairwell doors can be one of the more complicated applications in an access control system, because of the code requirements that apply to these doors. Learn more about access control systems on stair doors this Wednesday!
Take a look at these Fixed-it Friday photos, sent to me by Eyal Bedrik of Entry Systems Ltd. I think I’ve hit the wall, because I just keep shaking my head at the photos arriving in my inbox and I can’t think of any more ways to say, “Don’t do this, people.”
This is an important update to an earlier post about the code changes related to “occupied” indicators on privacy sets. The IBC change applies to family and assisted-use restrooms, but not to all single-user restrooms.
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Ben Gorton posted this photo on the page of the Facebook group called “There’s no crying in hollow metal”, and I just knew I had to share it (with permission) for Wordless Wednesday. This door is an emergency exit for a shooting range, and I’m #wordless.
My next Decoded article focuses on safety requirements to consider while addressing school security. And while we’re on the subject, Safe and Sound Schools is conducting their 4th survey on the National State of School Safety, and I invite you to participate.
A few weeks ago I posted a recorded class on delayed egress and controlled egress locking systems. If you’d prefer to listen to that presentation live, I will be conducting the class for the American Society for Health Care Engineering on April 22nd.
These doors would be nearly impossible to open in an emergency…they require special knowledge and effort, coordination and dexterity, and the hardware is far above the allowable range. #wordless
As I talk to people about fire door assembly inspection, two sides of the discussion have emerged. Many understand the increased life safety and fire protection provided by code-compliant fire doors – others think the deficiencies are too overwhelming to address.
The power of water is incredible. I think we will continue to see the changing weather patterns impacting the model codes and standards – code changes are already occurring with regard to hurricane/tornado protection and storm shelters.
Great News! UL has published an article to clarify the different UL listings that apply to electrified hardware. This should help with the confusion caused by the model code requirements for the UL 294 listing on certain types of systems.
Allegion is offering 5 more online training opportunities this week – Friday’s Security in 30 session on encryption key options for smart credentials, plus Webinar Wednesday’s classes on masterkeying, stairwell doors, K-12 layered security, and hollow metal.
Jason Albert posted this classic Fixed-it Friday fix on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page. Seems pretty secure, no? I’m wondering why the installer didn’t just mount the new device closer to the lock edge.
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Past fires in hospitals and nursing homes – and the resulting fatalities – have shaped the codes that we use today. Although today’s codes do not typically require patient room doors to be fire door assemblies, these doors provide a critical layer of protection for patients.
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I know this is kind of a personal question, but be honest…did you close your bedroom door when you went to sleep last night? It could save your life, and today’s Wordless Wednesday photos are proof of that.
Questions about double-egress cross-corridor pairs in health care facilities arise frequently, so I have updated this article to reflect the current requirements of the model codes.
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Do you know…The minimum required clear opening width for a single door? How to measure the clear opening width for a pair? The formula for calculating the actual clear opening width of a doorway?
Do you see what I see in these Fixed-it Friday photos? It’s hard to know whether this was done to secure these doors against intruders or to prevent elopement of young students, but either way it’s a problem.
Do you know the difference between these two types of systems – where they’re allowed, what purposes they serve, and all of the code requirements that apply? This presentation covers these systems in detail.
I’m sure there’s some sort of explanation for this, right? Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo was taken at a convention center that is currently being used as a Covid vaccination site.
About 10 years ago, a wise man (the company president at the time) told me that someday I would not be able to handle the network I was creating. He was right. iDigHardware just turned 12 years old, and we’re making a few changes.
Some of you have been anxiously awaiting my master class on the codes that apply to delayed egress and controlled egress locking systems, which was postponed when my computer died. Your wait is almost over!
This elementary school fire door “fix” is one way to keep the wedges from disappearing but might be tough to explain when the fire marshal shows up for an inspection.
I’m sure you can all see the problem with this apartment entrance…how would you mount a door closer on this side of the door?
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This report illustrates why I don’t like to see key-operated locks allowed in most locations. When a double-cylinder deadbolt is installed and there is a need to lock the doors to prevent access, there is no code-compliant way to facilitate egress.
Eighteen years ago this week, I sat stunned as I watched the news reports on the fire that had occurred the night before in the nearby city of West Warwick, Rhode Island. 100 fatalities, more than 200 injured…
The opportunities for distance learning continue, and here’s what’s on the docket for this week. The recording of my fire door session from last Friday is available on-demand, along with the Q&A from the session.
Have you ever pointed out a door problem to someone and had them respond with a shrug and some form of “so what”? A fire door is held open improperly…so what – chances are slim that the building will catch on fire today. Right??
I’ll get back to writing about the codes soon, but I think we could all use a virtual road trip to see some beautiful doors. Check out the variety of doors I found at a local bazaar last weekend!
I received links to these news reports from several iDigHardware readers as far away as Dubai. As I have said before, sometimes the immediate response to a threat does not take all factors into consideration.
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Today’s Quick Question: If an area requires two or more exit access doors because of the calculated occupant load, how far apart do those egress doors need to be?
There’s more virtual training available this week, and an early notification of a session being hosted next week by DHI and DSSF. This webinar covers application of the 5th edition of the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools Guidelines.
I can see some of you looking at today’s Fixed-it Friday photo and shaking your head. I guess this is one way in when you get locked out. Thanks to Rob Greathouse of Superior Lock & Safe for sending the photo!
Although control vestibules are not currently addressed in the model codes, my next Decoded article covers some of the considerations for the design of these systems, before submission to the AHJ for approval.
There were plenty of times over the years when my kids reluctantly tolerated my “teachable moments” about life safety. I’m so happy to know that some of it stuck! I hope you are talking to your family and friends about doors! 🙂
Last week I posted an exercise to help you apply some of your code knowledge by answering questions about swimming pool egress. Cheers to the few brave readers who gave it a shot!
Security in 30 is BACK, and I’m so excited that one of the requested topics is…CODES! If you are an access control integrator, please join me next Friday, February 19th at 12:30 EST, for Security in 30: Live with Allegion.
When I saw this photo, I had flashbacks to all of the times architects asked me to specify doors with other materials attached to them – wood planks, decorative plates, even brick (that was a hard no). What do you think about this application?
After Tuesday’s post about a code change, several people asked me how to tell when panic hardware was required for doors serving a swimming pool enclosure. I decided to create another “Apply It” post and let you work it out.
This may not be the kind of Wordless Wednesday photo that leaves YOU wordless but keep in mind that I am currently in Mexico where panic hardware is rare enough to be exciting…
You may not spend a lot of time perusing the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), but the 2021 edition includes changes that help to clarify the requirements for the mounting height of operable hardware.
How much clear opening width is required for a door opening, and what are the required dimensions for maneuvering clearance? What are possible solutions when existing conditions don’t comply with current requirements?
This is a creative closer mounting that you won’t find in the catalog. The closer is installed on an exterior door of an apartment building…I wonder how well it’s controlling the door.
If you have a garage attached to your home, it is very likely that the swinging door between the garage and the house is required by code to be a 20-minute fire door assembly or the equivalent. Here’s why…
The lever handle in today’s Wordless Wednesday photo posted by Richard Howard on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page is outside of the allowable mounting height range – by a long shot!
Today’s Quick Question: Are doors serving toilet stalls required to be self-closing? Do you know where to find this information in the ADA Standards for Accessible Design and ICC A117.1?
It’s hard to believe that it has been so many months since we’ve been able to gather in a classroom together, but during that time Allegion has provided more than 150 online classes. Here’s what’s coming up this week…
Beautiful doors and hard cider…two of my favorite things. But being who I am, I wondered whether the doors were code-compliant, since the model codes allow sliding doors to be used in a means of egress when the occupant load is 10 people or less.
I’m having a hard time making the connection between the NEC classifications for hazardous locations and the requirements for access control used in those areas. Are you an electrical expert?? I’d love some help with this!
At first glance this may look like just another creative Fixed-it Friday alteration, but upon deeper investigation it’s a cringe-worthy Wordless Wednesday application. How will this opening protective perform during a fire? Who knows??
I have written specs for several projects with SCIF doors, but I learned more about the federal specifications and design requirements while writing my next Decoded article for Door Security + Safety’s military and government issue…
Even if e-learning is not your preferred training method, there is valuable information offered in online classes and they allow much greater access and convenience. Here’s what’s on the schedule for this week…
When the automatic operator stops working, today’s Fixed-it Friday photo illustrates one way to fix it without bringing in an auto operator expert or waiting for replacement components.
Today’s Quick Question: When does a door opening need a coordinator – and what IS a coordinator, anyway?? Can you help with some images or video to help illustrate this tough-to-explain concept?
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo is shared with permission from Vince Davis, who posted it on the Fire and Life Safety Inspectors Facebook page. If this is a fire door it’s got some other issues, but the egress problem is clear.
In 2020, iDigHardware readers visited the site more than half a million times and spent thousands of hours reading my posts and articles. These are the most popular posts of 2020…did you miss any?
It’s a new year, and the online training opportunities continue! Here’s what’s available this week in both the Allegion 101 series and the Webinar Wednesday series. Feel free to share this information with others in your office.
Sometimes when you have a change in level of more than 1/4-inch, you just have to wing it and solve the problem using what you’ve got on hand! I wonder how long this gasketing extrusion could survive as a threshold substitution.
I have not commonly seen automatic-closing devices on fire door assemblies released by the sound of the fire alarm system vs. the detection of smoke, but maybe it’s a viable option for the US market? WWYD?
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I received these photos from a code official. This pair of doors serves a large assembly space, and as you can see, the doors get a fair amount of use. The original “fix” on the LHR leaf is not all that unusual, but the extension has me scratching my head.
Blaming fire victims for leaving the door open as they escape is not the answer. And why wait for a tragedy to occur before enacting laws that require existing apartment doors to be self-closing?
We are now beginning a new code development cycle for the International Building Code, and NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code will follow soon. This gives us an opportunity to propose changes to the codes that affect door openings the most…
A digital “Best of 2020” edition of Door Security + Safety has just been published, and it includes one of my feature articles as well as one of my Decoded columns, along with other informative articles, columns, and videos. I’ll be back on January 4th!
What problems can you see in today’s Wordless Wednesday photo? I’ve been posting these photos weekly for almost 10 YEARS and they just keep coming!
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Is a foot-operated lever release something the door hardware industry needs? How can a retrofittable pedal be made compliant with the 10-inch flush bottom requirement? What are your thoughts on this application?
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I have a question about elevator emergency access doors and I could use some help from an elevator expert. Do you have experience with ASME A17.1 and the requirements for blind hoistways?
Normally, a pneumatic power transfer would be used to supply air to the pneumatic auto operator. This would have been concealed in the edge of the door and the frame rabbet, protecting it from damage. Unfortunately, the installer had other ideas…
Today’s Quick Question gets down into the nitty-gritty, but you’ll thank me if you need to explain this to an AHJ: According to the IBC, can a door with panic hardware or fire exit hardware also have an electromagnetic lock?
There are plenty of issues with the restroom shown in today’s Wordless Wednesday photo, so I’ll just leave this right here and let y’all check it out while I sit here SMH. Thanks to Mark Kuhn of Allegion!
Today’s Quick Question: Do revolving doors require the breakaway feature and/or adjacent swinging doors in order to facilitate egress? I don’t do much with revolving doors, but I looked up the answer and learned a few things.
If you are new to the hardware industry (or you know someone who is), the Allegion 101 series offers an introduction to our products and their applications. Feel free to share these sessions with anyone who could benefit!
I saw this video posted on the BANG Forcible Entry Facebook page and I thought of y’all. I’m sure you’ll quickly spot the problem with this training video on how to defeat a door with panic hardware. 😀
BHMA A156.41 is the Standard for Door Hardware Single Motion to Egress. It describes the requirements for doors and door hardware to comply with building code and fire code requirements that mandate a single releasing motion…
This lock was installed on a retail store, protecting an area with high-value merchandise. YES, those are bullet holes, and NO, the wanna-be robbers did not defeat the lock and/or gain access. #stopemwithaSCHLAGE
Today’s Quick Question: In an office building with an occupant load of 400 people, is a paddle latch code compliant for the main entrance door? Or is panic hardware required?
…Another propped-open fire door. When are people going to learn?? If you don’t know why this is a problem, click the link to watch a video that will teach you all about fire door assemblies.
Glenn Younger of Grah Safe & Lock sent me this photo of a gate serving an area where elopement of small children is a concern. I think this is a great application – I’m wondering what you all think.
Although I’ve heard people say that no pricetag is too high when protecting our most precious assets, there are checks and balances to consider. What do you think about school security methods like this one?
As 2020 (finally) draws to a close, we have year-end projects to finish and hopefully some down-time with our families. But there’s still time to learn, and our training team has plenty of options available.
Having the proper clearance around a door helps the door to close and latch correctly, affecting function, security, egress, accessibility, and fire protection, so knowing how to shim a door can come in really handy.
Although the rules on projections into the clear opening height are changing, giant Pilgrim cat heads are not one of the allowable projections. Happy Thanksgiving!
Yesterday’s post about bottom rails on all-glass doors raised a Quick Question: Do glass doors with patch fittings meet the requirements for a flush bottom rail?
Last week, an AHJ asked me if I knew of a source for plates or other products that could be used to increase the height of the bottom rail of a door. WWYD?
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In the category of “Repairs My Husband Would Make”, here’s today’s Fixed-it Friday photo which was posted on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page by Randy Lahey.
The 2021 code development cycle is complete, and although it may take some time for the new model codes to be adopted, it’s important to know what changes to expect.
Once the investment is made in an access control system, it seems like padlocks and hasps should become obsolete. Especially since this is probably a fire door.
You may already know all about this topic, but I guarantee you have some friends and family members who do not. Share this message to help keep them safe.
As many of you know, I have a webinar scheduled for this Thursday, which covers the detailed requirements for delayed egress and controlled egress locking systems…
Anyone else see the problem with this Fixed-it Friday photo? Note: The photo was sent to me by an AHJ, and the situation has since been corrected.
With permission from the author, Hal Kelton of DoorData Solutions, along with Door Security + Safety Magazine, I’m excited to share this article.
Remember when you were a kid and couldn’t go on the roller coaster because you weren’t as tall as the line on the sign? Well, here’s the egress version…
Today’s Quick Question: Can a bedroom door within a suite in a dormitory have a separate deadbolt in addition to the latching hardware? What do you think?
My coworkers and I have provided dozens of remote learning opportunities this year, and we have many more sessions planned. Next up on the schedule of online classes…
The facility’s request was to automate this 4-foot x 9-foot sliding door, but I think that’s a “fix” that may not be feasible. What do you think?
Hal Kelton of DOORDATA Solutions sent me this photo of a pair of doors in health care facility, and it made me wonder…how would you handle the hardware for this pair?
Imagine that you’re in an antique store, shopping for the perfect Christmas gift. You’re on the second floor when the fire alarm sounds…
We MUST continue to educate people on the importance of keeping their fire door assemblies performing properly. An annual fire door inspection could have saved lives in this fire.
What do you want to learn about? Whether you’re new to the industry or you want to get into the nitty-gritty of delayed egress and controlled egress locks, you have options!
Maybe I should go into door forensics in my retirement years (someday). I think it’s so interesting to look at a door opening and try to figure out what happened.
Someone asked me recently why distributors are still ordering swinging fire doors with a neutral pressure fire rating. I don’t know the answer to that…do you?
Trevor Hauser posted today’s Wordless Wednesday photo on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page, and all I can say is…wow.
This is a great training opportunity for people who are new to the architectural hardware industry or who want to fill in some gaps in their industry education. Please share this info!
Last week, Allegion sponsored a virtual screening of the documentary – 6 Locked Doors. There are still some tickets left, so I’m inviting iDigHardware readers to watch it until the tickets run out.
What is it with museums? Other than antique stores, they have to be one of the most common sites for non-code-compliant exits.
Even after 20 years, the requirements for projections into the clear opening width continue to raise questions. I’d love to have your insight on this. WWYD?
What would you call this Wordless Wednesday post? I’m befuddled by the giant arrow, the multiple exit signs, the numerous motions required to unlatch the door, and…the padlock and hasp.
Today’s “Quick Question”: When is a room required to have more than one exit or exit access doorway? Do you know the answer?
I’m participating in three sessions at next week’s virtual DHI conNextions conference…I hope to “see” you there!
This door has an arched top so the standard closer mountings won’t work, but there is an alternative – a special template from LCN!
Actually, I’ve been here all along – writing a new post each weekday! If you haven’t been receiving your daily or weekly email notifications, here’s what you missed…
Sometimes people have to get creative when security is on the line! Hopefully, this unit is uninhabitable. #wordless
An interesting product came across my desk recently, which is designed to allow hands-free operation of restroom doors. Have any of you tried it yet? WWYD?
Harry Porosky of Integrated Openings Solutions sent me today’s Fixed-it Friday photo. This looks like it’s going to be a pretty expensive fix.
A change to the 2021 edition of the IBC seems to allow egress doors in some health care units to have mechanical locks in the direction of egress, instead of fail safe electrified locks. WWYD?
Do you see any problems with today’s Wordless Wednesday photo? While this might seem like an easy way to secure these doors, I have some concerns.
Safe Schools Week is nearly here and we have a fantastic webinar coming up, along with 4 more sessions from our national trainers on Webinar Wednesday, and the next Security in 30!
Fire door assemblies with counterfeit labels – am I the only one who finds this an extremely disturbing idea? Who knows how these doors will perform if there is a fire???
I can’t say for sure that is a fire door assembly, but I’ve seen this Fixed-it Friday application on fire doors many times in school gymnasiums.
Here are the answers to Tuesday’s real-world questions about the egress requirements for this mosque in Dubai. Read the other post first if you want to give it a try.
One silver lining to the pandemic may be the increased focus on gatherings that in many cases include too many people – not only for social distancing but for egress and life safety.
It’s one thing to read an article or watch a video about code requirements for doors and hardware, but how about applying what you’ve learned using a real project?
The online training offered by our national trainers for the last 20(!) Webinar Wednesdays will continue into October. Here’s what’s scheduled for this week…
Jennifer Schaffer posted today’s Fixed-it Friday photo on the Crap Locksmithing Facebook page, and it seems like an appropriate “fix” for a Friday…
I’ve recently had several people ask how multiple changes in level within a door opening are considered by the accessibility standards. WWYD?
At first glance, the problem with this Wordless Wednesday photo may not immediately be apparent…do you see what’s causing the egress concern?
Do you have some free time on Saturday? I’ll be participating in a (free) virtual trade show and I’d love to have you stop by my virtual booth and visit!
Ten years ago I wrote my very first Decoded article, and the column has run continuously since December of 2010. Who knew I’d have so much to write about??
Fire door assemblies aren’t just something you read about in NFPA 80 – they have an important role in the passive fire protection of a building. Here’s another fire door win!
NFPA Journal: Safety is created by an ecosystem made up of codes, skilled workers, regular enforcement, and public understanding.
Yet another restaurant exit that leaves me #wordless. Posted in the Fire and Life Safety Inspectors Facebook group by Nancy Naber-Van Voorhees.
Our national training team has 4 more webinars on the schedule for the next Webinar Wednesday online classes – happening tomorrow!
The 2021 editions of the model codes have been modified, separating the limitations on the force used to open the door from the force used to operate the hardware.
I’m curious about this “self-cleaning” wrap installed on a door pull at a restaurant entrance. Do any of you have experience with this technology?
The Steel Door Institute (SDI) just released a new video that covers the annual inspection requirements for fire door assemblies. Feel free to share it!
Do you remember back in July when I shared crazy Wordless Wednesday photos of how a flash flood affected some doors? Well, here’s a WW video of a similar incident!
I’m finishing up my presentation for the DHI conNextions conference – covering the changes to the 2021 model codes, and I need your help!!
Not too many people would be walking down a hospital corridor and notice the problem shown in today’s Fixed-it Friday photo. Can you see it?
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I know that most of us have seen projects with wonky door numbering…what would you do if you could start from scratch and number the openings the right way?
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo shows a university weight room, where students allegedly “modified” the hardware so that the door would not be lockable.
In case you missed Paul Timm’s webinar last week, the recording is now available. And…our national trainers will be conducting 4 live sessions tomorrow.
I have been asked so many times – hundreds – whether it’s ok to lock a door in the direction of egress, and unlock it only in an emergency…the answer is almost always “NO!”
It still amazes me that people with seemingly no understanding of the code requirements will make modifications to their doors that could result in injury or even death.
Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) is a UK-based organization dedicated to fire door safety. Sharing this information about US fire doors could improve building safety.
I just love imagining you guys and gals spotting a door with a problem and thinking, “I need to take a picture for Lori!” Keep them coming! 😀
Confused about the various code sections that apply to electrified hardware? These questions will guide you in the right direction.
I think it’s safe to say that “back-to-school” looks different for everyone this year. This Thursday, Paul Timm will be presenting a webinar on adjustments to schoool security protocols.
This was the result of a school maintenance manager’s attempt to unlock a door that was not on the key system. I think I would have broken the glass, but whatever works.
In the 2018 edition of NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code, requirements for alcohol-based hand-rub dispensers for new and existing schools are found in Sections 14.4.4 and 15.4.4.
Michael Wallick of Kelley Brothers sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo of an “emergency exit” in what looks like a thrift store (I love thrift stores!). What can I say? #wordless
Here’s what our national trainers have on the online training schedule for tomorrow, and an additional webinar for security integrators on Friday.
Is it acceptable for a locksmith who is not AAADM certified to perform work on automatic doors – if the work is not part of the automatic operating system? WWYD?
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If you see any situations like this, I’d love a photo to help share ideas for Fixed-it Friday “fixes” that ensure all safety requirements are met.
Hand sanitizer is not normally within my area of expertise, but I’ve been receiving questions about it so I checked to see what NFPA had to say.
These WW photos illustrate a creative attempt at meeting the requirements for stairwell reentry, while inadvertently voiding the fire door label.
Last week I asked if you knew of any podcasts on codes, doors, or anything related to iDigHardware, and Facebook sent me a list!
I’ll bet this is happening even more often now, due to concerns about the transmission of germs. Yet another reason to go to touchless actuators.
If your fire exit hardware shows up on the job-site without the dogging feature, there’s a good reason for that. Homemade dogging is not a valid fix!
Today’s Quick Question: Do the requirements of NFPA 80 “trump” the ADA requirements? Is fire protection more important than accessibility?
Someone really went to a lot of trouble to turn this door from “exit” to “no exit”, but they missed a few things. Like checking in with the local fire marshal.
I think online learning is here to stay. Which doesn’t mean that we’ll never see each other in person again, but there’s a lot we can learn in the meantime.
Last week I posted about the 30th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), and I realized how many people were unaware of the history of the law.
Leave it to NFPA to come up with a new type of dogging that is guaranteed to keep a door with panic hardware unlocked indefinitely.
I have an opportunity to do a Q&A with a company offering field relabeling/recertification of fire door assemblies, and I want to make sure that I don’t miss any questions you may have.
These are some of the most wordless Wordless Wednesday photos ever; I’ve never seen anything like this. The force of water is amazing.
Yes, it’s Week 23. So if you’re feeling a little webinar-ed out, that’s probably why. I get it – I’ve been in the house for 133 days with only brief trips out for errands…
It must have been around 30 years ago when my boss sent me to a seminar held at a local hotel – the topic was a new federal law called the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Coming in just after duct tape and WD-40 in the lineup for must-have tools to fix door-related problems…the Sharpie!
Several questions were prompted by my recent webinar on touchless hardware, about the requirements addressing automatic operators and non-latching hardware on fire doors.
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo shows an after-hours repair on a door that would not lock, as reported by the security department at a large university. Scary.
As many of you already know, my oldest daughter is starting her second year at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, an early-adopter of mobile credentials.
There are SO MANY great opportunities to learn something new this week! Please share this list with any of your colleagues who might be interested!
Speaking from experience, this repair method – which apparently spans across multiple industries – does not last long.
On top of the threat of fires and active shooters, crowds themselves can be deadly. New technology for crowd monitoring is the topic of this episode of Learn Something New™ by NFPA Journal.
I hope whoever thought today’s Wordless Wednesday application was a good solution for preventing unauthorized egress also thought about checking with the AHJ.
Many facility managers are exploring ways to reduce the transmission of germs in their buildings, but don’t forget about the code requirements!
Brian Coulombe: “Door hardware is a tough subject: limitless part numbers, an evolving technology landscape, and a library of jargon unto itself…”
Sometimes it’s painful to see what people will do to their doors and hardware. Trying to solve one problem can lead to another…
Today’s Quick Question is a very common one…Can cladding materials be applied to the face of a fire door assembly?
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo makes me wonder what other interesting things have been found inside of these enclosures…
Don’t miss this week’s line-up of online classes…automatic operators, electrified hardware, hollow metal doors and frames, and school security.
Now that you’ve memorized the applications that require doors with panic hardware, a change to the 2021 IBC will add a new location that requires panics.
I have had quite a few questions about terminated stops on fire door assemblies, so this change to the 2021 IBC should help to clarify what is allowed by code.
What I love about a post like this is that someone will see it – and GET IT. During the fire shown in today’s Wordless Wednesday photos, a child was rescued from behind the closed door.
My next Decoded column for Door Security + Safety Magazine addresses an approved code change related to locking roof terraces and courtyards.
This is one of my favorite weeks of the year, but maybe for a different reason than you might expect. 🙂
Hardware sets in a specification look like a different language to most people, so sometimes there are surprises when the doors and hardware are installed.
Is it acceptable by code to provide battery back-up for an electromagnetic lock? What about other types of electrified hardware?
Whether this Wordless Wednesday “exit” is serving a black-box theater or the church that is renting space to hold their services, it’s extremely disturbing!
Our national trainers are continuing with their Webinar Wednesday series – classes are currently scheduled into August. Feel free to share this information with your colleagues.
How have you been specifying/supplying the hardware for hotel rooms that are sometimes used as a suite – with door closers on the individual doors, or without?
Where there’s a will (and the AHJ is flexible), there’s a way. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into this opening, but I have a few unanswered questions…
The 2021 IBC will specifically address the acceptable means of locking egress doors that serve exterior spaces – like balconies and roof decks – where the path of egress goes through the interior of the building.
Sometimes Wordless Wednesday photos need a little context. Most of us have seen hotel meeting rooms with exits concealed by curtains…but during a class for code officials??
One thing I have found during my 35 years in the door and hardware industry is that there is always more to learn. Check out the online classes available this week!
Many of you already know this (900 of you have already signed up), but this Thursday I will be presenting another webinar. If you’re on the fence about whether to attend, this post might help.
Yesterday morning, Luna and I saw a security gate/screen door that made me think of y’all…check out the vertical stiles and jambs. This is some serious custom work!
In case you missed this short paragraph in the NFPA Journal article I shared on Monday, I wanted to bring it to your attention since several iDigHardware readers emailed me about it…
Maintaining an established means of egress is important, but sometimes there’s a hazard that requires a modification of the exit route.
Here is a list of the webinars that our national training team is presenting tomorrow. There’s still time to sign up!
For any jurisdictions that have adopted NFPA codes and standards, this month’s NFPA Journal has a great summary of some of the major changes coming in the 2021 editions.
This is a feat of engineering and might even be compliant with the code requirement for one operation to unlatch the door. If only I had a video…
NFPA has compiled more than a dozen new resources including videos, fact sheets, and news releases, which can all be found at nfpa.org/coronavirus.
Jim Elder of Secured Design LLC sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo, and I am indeed wordless! This is a first for me!
My next Decoded column for Door Security + Safety Magazine addresses the code considerations for facilities where changes are being made in order to limit the spread of germs.
This week we have 5 different webinars available, so you can continue your training online. Check out the options – there’s something for everyone!
In the never-ending battle of convenience vs. security…convenience wins again! Why bother investing in access control?
Today’s Quick Question: Are actuators for automatic operators required to have the International Symbol of Accessibility (ISA)?
Most of you know how important this message is to me: Close Before You Doze. Check out this video from the Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Department.
Whether you are in your office or at home with your cat (or kids!), you can keep learning. Our national trainers are offering 2 webinars tomorrow.
This is the first time I’ve ever received a Fixed-it Friday STORY…not just one FF photo, but 13 photos and Logan Piburn’s narration of the whole situation. Thanks Logan!
I receive a lot of questions about the code requirements for fire door assembly inspections, so when the Steel Door Institute asked me to write an article on the subject, I was more than willing!
These photos perfectly illustrate the age-old struggle between security and convenience. The semi-permanent nature of the “fix” leaves me wordless.
Because our team of national trainers is not on the road these days, they have begun offering multiple webinars every Wednesday! Check today’s post for tomorrow’s line-up!
More opportunities for online training – some offering continuing education credits. Check here for upcoming live webinars and access to on-demand recordings.
It’s Fixed-it Friday, AND…last call for the iDigHardware Yeti mug! Share your insight today on my post about school security design trends, and I’ll pick a winner!
With the current focus on how to limit the spread of germs, many facility managers are considering the addition of automatic operators so doors can be operated “hands-free.”
At first glance, this might look like an LCN 4040 closer that has suffered an extreme failure, but it is actually a knockoff. Make sure you’re getting the real deal!
Today’s Quick Question: Can an existing fire door be labeled in the field for a higher rating than what it was originally listed for?
The recording of Paul Timm’s webinar on access control best practices for schools is now available!
Today’s Fixed-it Friday photo shows someone’s attempt at solving the problem of a non-ADA-compliant thumbturn in a veterans’ home. Fortunately, the locks have since been replaced.
Please share any trends you have seen on new school projects or existing buildings…the safety of all students will benefit from shared best practices (and there’s an iDigHardware Yeti travel mug up for grabs!).
Raise your hand if you’ve seen a fire door like this. Now wave a virtual hello! 😀 A fire barrier can’t do its job with a big hole in it!
Anyone know what “loiding” is? How about a “mute”? To find out, click here to download the DHI Glossary of Architectural Hardware Terms.
This Friday, May 8th, Allegion will be presenting the second in a series of six 30-minute webinars designed with integrators in mind. If you are an access control integrator, please join us!
I received today’s Fixed-it Friday photo from Ken Sako of Lazzaro Companies, and I’m wordless. Maybe y’all can think of something to say.
My next Decoded column for Door Security + Safety magazine addresses the requirements for vestibules mandated by the IECC.
Just a friendly reminder to go one step further and ensure that the egress requirements are met while exits are being modified or other construction projects are in progress.
Are AHJs allowing retail stores to make temporary changes in their egress routes to help slow the spread of COVID-19? If yes, are there some guidelines to help ensure safe egress?
While COVID-19 restrictions are a form of forced access control to school facilities, timeless issues must be addressed. Join DHI and the Door Security & Safety Foundation for this webinar…
I don’t know about y’all, but I needed a laugh today (I know – odd things make me laugh). Happy Fixed-it Friday – I hope you are all staying safe and well.
Thank you to those who attended the live webinar last week! The webinars page has been updated with the recording, a list of resources, a short survey, and information about Webinar 3!
Craig Gaevert sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo…there must be a rule against this, right? There’s even a sign! :\
Someone asked me last week whether a door pull operated by the user’s foot would be considered accessible. The answer seems obvious, right? Read on…
Comments: 33
This Friday, April 24th, Allegion will be presenting the first in a series of six 30-minute webinars designed with integrators in mind. If you are an access control integrator, please join us!
I know that some architects would rather not see thru-bolts for closers, but I think they should be standard for every school specification. Do you agree?
Comments: 32
I’d like to compile some information about how hardware for an isolation room is currently being specified/supplied. What are the current recommendations or requirements?
Remember last week’s Wordless Wednesday photos of warehouse exits? Well, I received some more from Johnson Controls. #wordless
In case you can’t read the sign on the door, it says, “Push the red button and the bar on the door at the same time to exit.” THIS IS NOT OK!
Many of you probably know a lot about panic hardware already, but maybe you have colleagues who could benefit from Webinar 2 which I’ll be presenting this Thursday. Please share!
Today’s Fixed-it Friday photos show a situation found at a state college. I’m curious whether any of you can come up with examples of when this “fix” would be acceptable.
I find information and a solid plan helpful to me in uncertain times, and I hope that NFPA’s guidance is useful to you. Stay safe!
One of the side-effects of staying at home is that we’re not out-and-about to run across Wordless Wednesday and Fixed-it Friday applications. Can you help save my streaks?
This is a beautiful residential door with a problem caused by the brick reveal combined with the arched top. Can you help? WWYD?
Today’s Quick Question: Is sealant required around a fire door frame – where it meets the sheetrock?
Facility managers need to carefully consider changes made to prevent virus transmission, which could affect egress, fire protection, and accessibility.
Here’s another training opportunity – this time from TGP University. Learn about fire-rated glazing and how the model codes affect the design options. April 14th!
I’ve been trying to put myself in the shoes of the person who made the modifications to these exits, and I just can’t imagine any conditions that would make this seem like a good idea.
My next webinar is coming up on Thursday, April 16th. The topic will be panic hardware – where it is required and the related code requirements – including the electrified options.
Today’s Quick Question: Can door hardware with an antimicrobial coating prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other viruses?
Covid-19 has inspired new “inventions” to help people avoid touching door hardware with their hands, to limit the spread of the virus. How can the hardware industry help?
If it looks like a door and swings like a door, building occupants (and the code official) will probably think it’s a door, and it should operate like doors are supposed to.
It’s Wordless Wednesday and my 10th day of staying inside the house. I hope you are all safe and healthy – and code-compliant!
Next up in NFPA’s series of short videos…Are 3D-printed buildings safe and code-compliant? What do you think? Would you live in a 3D-printed house?
Today’s Quick Question: Is an astragal required for double-egress cross-corridor pairs in health care smoke barriers? The answer surprised me.
Seriously…how does anyone justify this Fixed-it Friday “fix”? If someone tells you this was approved by the fire marshal, I wouldn’t believe it.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve had a little trouble staying focused in recent days. I’d love to come up with some ways to use this time wisely. Any ideas?
Thank you to Chad Jenkins of the National Locksmith Institute for today’s Wordless Wednesday photos. And yes, the restaurant was open for business.
Several people have asked me lately about the standard mounting height for two products – deadbolts and hospital latches. WWYD?
If NFPA 80 requires 1/8-inch or 3/16-inch maximum perimeter clearance for fire door assemblies, is it acceptable to add the manufacturing tolerance to that dimension?
You may have to zoom in and look around to see exactly what’s happening in this Fixed-it Friday photo. All I have to say is…there are better ways to transfer power.
Three recent news stories – two illustrating the benefits of closed residential doors, and one from Kristin Bigda at NFPA regarding fire door operation and the Coronavirus.
This Wordless Wednesday photo is an unbelievable example of the abusive conditions a door might face in a school. What do you think happened here?
Comments: 73
For aesthetic purposes, a change is being considered to the configuration of this swinging pair of doors – each leaf would be increased from 36 inches wide to 62 inches wide. WWYD?
One side of this device is attached to the door with double-sided tape, and the other side is magnetic. It is used in a memory care facility to indicate whether a resident’s room is vacant or occupied. WWYD?
Matthew Stonebraker of Allegion just sent me this Fixed-it Friday photo of a glass door at the Mexico City National Museum of Art, and it’s so cool! Have you seen a modification like this before?
Thank you to those who attended the live webinar last week! The webinars page has been updated with the recording, a list of resources, a short survey, and information about Webinar 2!
It’s Wordless Wednesday, and I don’t know which contributes more to my wordlessness…the impeded egress, or the compromised security.
My recent article in Security Sales & Integration addresses panic hardware from an access control perspective.
The intent of the application in today’s Fixed-it Friday photos is obviously to deter the use of the doors – do you think this is code-compliant? Have you ever seen any documentation on these plastic loops?
Remember when Ohio’s state codes were changed in order to allow classroom barricade devices? Almost 5 years later, questions are being raised about safety.
Reminder: I will be presenting Webinar 1 – Code Changes Affecting Classroom Security tomorrow at 11 AM and 2 PM Eastern! And…today’s Wordless Wednesday! 😀
The new fire door inspection cards have been updated, and they will be printed and laminated soon! Thank you for your patience! (I also have a label question for you.)
Comments: 37
When a child with autism or an adult with dementia is living at home, it’s crucial for their family to be able to deter elopement while still providing safe egress. WWYD?
It’s fire exit hardware, so it has to latch!
I think that a traveling door is a great way to teach people about the fire-protection benefits of a closed bedroom door – what do you think of the idea??
When you complain about U.S. code requirements just remember, this WW door is typical in many countries that don’t have strong life safety codes or people to enforce them.
I created a new page on the Topics menu which addresses the accessibility requirements for operable hardware, and that got me thinking…are there other common issues that should have their own pages?
If a labeled fire door is installed in a location where a fire door is not required, must the assembly be maintained and inspected according to the requirements of NFPA 80?
Comments: 22
We’ve all seen closers installed incorrectly…the question is how will the control of this door be affected by the installation in this Fixed-it Friday photo?
If you’re looking to learn more about school safety and security, there are some upcoming opportunities for training and networking – from Safe and Sound Schools, PASS, Allegion, and me!
Some of the life safety features that we’ve come to expect in the US are not so common in other countries. This makes awareness of your surroundings even more critical.
Some new resources on school safety and security are available, including documents from BHMA and NASFM, a story from NPR, and two federal websites.
Should the mounting location for a round light be at 43 inches above the floor? Or lower to allow more viewing area? WWYD?
I know these doors aren’t actually secured with licorice, and I HOPE this building is under construction and unoccupied. Thank you to Keith Zettler for today’s Fixed-it Friday photo.
Webinars…they’re the next best thing to being there, right? Since I can’t be with each of you in person, I hope you will join me on some of my upcoming (and free) webinars.
OSHA requires emergency exits to be kept clear, to allow workers to exit quickly in an emergency. Failure to comply can result in seriously large fines. #wordless
Do you use our laminated fire door assembly inspection cards? I could really use your help!
Comments: 38
I have to admit, it was kind of cool to have someone send in a photo of a door they had seen, when it turned out that the door was on a project that I wrote the hardware spec for!
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The extreme weather we’re experiencing may open up new opportunities for hardware design…today’s Fixed-it Friday photos could be a prototype for a future product. 🙂
Today’s Quick Question: Are the vision lights in double-acting traffic doors / impact doors required to comply with the accessibility standards?
Have you watched the Six Locked Doors documentary yet? And yes, this door has an exit sign. And a “no exit” sign. And an “emergency exit” sign. 🙁
Anybody know what this is? It’s probably not door hardware, but I’m curious, and many of you seem to have a knack for identifying old stuff. I don’t remember ever seeing anything like it.
Are the doors on these temporary vestibules required to meet the requirements of the codes and standards? If not, why not? And if yes…why are most of them non-compliant?
Keith Nelsen of Lindquist Security Technologies sent me today’s Fixed-it Friday video. I’m guessing it wasn’t an intentional “fix”, but it’s interesting nonetheless.
My next Decoded article explains why it is important for the ADA and all adopted codes and standards to be considered when choosing security products. Let me know if I missed anything!
I can not for the life of me think of any circumstances that would make me consider locking egress doors in a school using this method. Just no. Never. #wordless
This news makes me really happy – there’s a new standard thumb turn for the Schlage L9000 mortise lock! Don’t worry – the “old” standard thumb turn and the EZ Turn are still available.
Yesterday, FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro spoke with Bill Ritter on the show Up Close about recent fires that occurred in NYC, where open doors had a negative impact on safety.
The story here is that the cross-corridor doors in this hospital were scheduled to be 8-foot doors, but the wrong (7-foot) assembly was installed. WWYD?
Comments: 31
Is the UL 294 listing required by the model codes for panic hardware with the electric latch retraction / electric dogging feature (EL/QEL)?
There are so many code issues with this “exit” in a children’s museum that I’m just going to remain #wordless. Could you quickly operate this door in an emergency?
Fire, panic, and other emergencies can strike anywhere, any time. To offer the highest level of protection, buildings must be code-compliant everywhere, all the time.
This documentary should be required viewing – not just for those of us who are involved in codes, but for anyone who enters buildings (that means everyone).
Restaurants are notorious for creative hardware applications…next time you go out to eat, look around at the doors and send me some photos! 🙂
The new year (and some rest over the holidays) has renewed my resolve to continue educating school districts and others about the dangers of some types of retrofit security devices…
This Chinese restaurant has 30 tables, which means that the occupant load is probably over 100 people – definitely over 50. What’s wrong with this (WW) picture?
Last week I posted some Fixed-it Friday photos showing auto-operator actuators, and I just received some interesting follow-up photos from Paul Stockert of EYP Architecture & Engineering. What do you think?
This video was made by Von Duprin in the 1940’s…I’m very proud that I can continue to share the importance of life safety and free egress!
There’s no point in installing an automatic operator if the user can not reach the actuator. Do you know where to find the mounting recommendations for knowing-act switches?
If you have supplied doors, frames, and hardware, you’ve probably had some projects that kept you awake at night. I know I have, but the end result can be so rewarding!
I hope that you enjoy time with family and friends over the next week or so, and I’ll see you all in 2020!
When trying to prevent water intrusion at the fire service elevator lobby doors, what type of door sweep or door bottom meets the intent of IBC Section 3007? WWYD?
Another Friday, another “fix.” This fire door probably won’t perform as designed and tested, should a fire occur. Why does convenience so often win out over safety??
When you’re researching a code issue, how do you know which code to follow? Which one supersedes the others? And which AHJ has the final say?
When I was in high school, our school actually had a patio next to the cafeteria that was the authorized “smoking area” for the students. Times have changed.
News reports indicate during a serious fire that occurred last month in a Scotland high school, the lockdown system prevented immediate egress.
I recently shared an announcement about a webinar with 5 panelists who discussed school safety and classroom security. In case you missed it, today’s post includes the recording of that webinar.
Check out this opening, installed on a ramp in a restaurant. The building was originally a warehouse for a grain mill and other materials shipped by train during the mid-1800s. Can you see the “fix”?
Kicking off the 10th year of my Decoded column in Door Security + Safety Magazine…time flies!
Today’s Wordless Wednesday photo shows a non-code-compliant modification that occurred after project completion. What other examples of post-construction changes do you commonly see?
Today’s Quick Question: Are door bolts – like the surface bolts made by commercial hardware manufacturers – allowed to secure classroom doors during a lockdown?
We’re kicking off Schlage’s 100th anniversary with a new video that provides a fascinating look (really!) into the history of Walter Schlage and the Schlage Lock Company – check it out!
The creative solutions never end! RB Sontag of Allegion sent me today’s Fixed-it Friday photo, and if this is a fire door, we’ve got a problem.
Originally, these doors did not need to lock, but that has changed, and the architect is looking for a way to add code-compliant locks to the doors which have already been installed. WWYD?
I have seen some questionable workmanship in my career, but this has to be one of the least effective strike installations I’ve ever come across. Can you top it? You can submit photos using the option on the Tools menu.
What are the required opening speed, closing speed, and hold-open time for a low-energy automatic operator? What about a vestibule situation with sequential operation?
This is going to be a great webinar! There is a fabulous line-up of presenters with an incredible depth of experience and insight to share.
Billy Rogers of Rogers Installations sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo, and I’m feeling a little ill. This pair of doors serves a 9,000 seat auditorium, and the man on the right appears to be from the fire department. 🙁
What do you think about this change that has been approved for the 2021 International Building Code? Does it clear things up nicely, or does it cause concerns regarding accessibility?
This week marks 77 years since the fire at the Cocoanut Grove Nightclub in Boston, and the fire is the topic of this month’s Learn Something New video from NFPA.
Kelly Reese of Allegion sent me today’s Fixed-it Friday photo, and I have to admit, it’s pretty creative. Unfortunately, if this is a fire door the purpose of the fire door assembly has been completely defeated.
I need some help from any wood door experts out there…any theories on what might have caused the horizontal lines on these wood doors? They weren’t visible until the doors were field stained.
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It’s chilling to consider what will happen when someone needs to use this exit in an emergency. The other exterior doors have the same security measure in place. 🙁
Here are the answers to yesterday’s real-world questions about the egress requirements for this high school music classroom. Read the other post first if you want to give it a try.
Try applying your knowledge of the International Building Code to a real-world example…can you answer these 4 questions about the egress requirements for this high school music classroom?
There’s more than one way to hold open a door for convenience, and if it’s a fire door, the method needs to be code-compliant. Here’s a great Fixed-it Friday example.
If a door or frame has a label indicating that is is fire rated, is the assembly required to be maintained and inspected as required by NFPA 80 and NFPA 101? A proposed code change offers a clarification.
It’s Wordless Wednesday again…can you believe that I’ve been posting WW photos every week since January of 2011?? And there’s no end in sight! Keep the WW and FF photos coming!
This article was published in the October 2019 issue of Locksmith Ledger, and includes some questions that you can use to determine whether your code knowledge is up-to-date.
Do all fire exit doors have fire exit hardware? Even if you already know the answer to this question, today’s blog post might help you explain it to someone who disagrees.
Ahhh…that feeling you get when you overhear someone telling their coworker that they think they’ve spotted a code violation – and they took a photo of it!
What will the future of exit signs look like? Do they need an upgrade using new technology?
It took me a second to see what was happening here, and now I’m #wordless. Thank you to Kim Murkette of Isenhour Door for the photo!
Are you headed to Cleveland this week for the DHI ConNextions conference? I hope to see you there!
Shared restrooms that are not segregated based on gender are becoming more common in schools, universities, and other types of facilities. What’s the ideal hardware solution for these doors?
Kick-down holders (prohibited in most commercial locations) are meant to flip down and hold the door open. This one is being used for a different purpose. Any ideas?
My next Decoded article covers the tentative interim amendment – TIA 1436, which revised NFPA 101 in order to allow 2 releasing operations to unlatch existing classroom doors.
End users MUST understand the applicable code requirements before purchasing security products, and it’s our job to educate them. We can’t focus solely on security at the expense of life safety.
UL FSRI: Nearly half of Americans believe it’s safer to sleep with the door closed in the event of a fire, yet only 26% always sleep with their bedroom door completely shut.
If you’re anywhere near Cleveland, Ohio, I just found out about a great opportunity on Thursday, November 7th for you to attend our Code Update Roundtable!
It can sometimes be difficult to determine whether a particular type of hardware requires special knowledge or effort to operate since this is left up to each AHJ to interpret. Not this time…
Any idea what is corroding or oxidizing inside of this door – and to this extent?? I’ve never seen anything like it! What’s the solution? WWYD?
Comments: 41
I can almost understand how trash cans get placed in front of exit doors, but the (semi-permanent) use of zip-ties is hard to take.
People ask me all the time…Do ALL doors have to meet the requirements of the IBC? How do you differentiate between an egress door and a non-egress door?
If you are looking for some continuing education credit, or just want to learn more about collaborating on a door hardware specification, here’s your chance!
It warms my heart that in the last 10 years, the number of people who actually notice these problems (and often do something to resolve them) has increased significantly.
Remember the photo I posted Tuesday – of the exit door from the fast-food restaurant? If you’ve been wondering what the other code issue was, here’s the answer.
Maybe rules really are made to be broken? Which code requirements are being violated with this creative Wordless Wednesday installation?
What do you think about the width of the aisle leading to this restaurant exit – is it sufficient? And can you spot the other code issue with this door?
Between 2013 and 2017, an average of 4,859 structure fires occurred in educational facilities each year, and only 39% of the schools where fires occurred had sprinkler systems. Read more…
How quickly we forget the lessons learned in tragic events such as the fires at the Iroquois Theatre and the Cocoanut Grove Nightclub. If you see something, say something!
I know that many of us notice funky hardware applications on TV and in movies…here’s one that we can actually learn a few things from.
Charles Anderson sent me the photos below, of a “secondary” exit from a retail store. I know it’s Wordless Wednesday, but here’s something you should know…
This new infographic aims to help clear some of the confusion about the various lock functions used on classroom doors. Feel free to share it!
The statistical likelihood of a public school student being killed in a school shooting on any given day since 1999 was 1 in 614,000,000. Read more in the Washington Post…
I’m Wordless about today’s Fixed-it Friday photo. Considering that this is a retail store, I’m not even sure how/why this happened. Any theories?
I don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all answer for classroom security, but as we consider each new problem, it’s important to remember the progression of the security methods used over past decades.
During a flu epidemic in 1974, hospital staff was desperate to accommodate the patients needing treatment. Luckily, someone was watching out for the life safety of all of the hospital’s occupants.
Do you know of any facility that is using the performance-based option for fire door assembly inspection? I asked the Joint Commission about it…
Last call! And in addition to the randomly-selected winners of the 10th anniversary contest, I have a gift for someone who has been a loyal reader since the very beginning.
Looking past the Fixed-it Friday “fix” and the non-code-compliant hardware, what do you think about the design of this opening? Are these exit doors easily identifiable?
Have you ever wished for a short video that gives an overview of fire door assemblies? The Steel Door Institute (SDI) recently released a 2-minute video that covers the basics.
Imagine that you are moving your mom into an assisted living facility, and you notice that the door closer on every fire-rated apartment entrance door has been disconnected…
Can a double-cylinder deadbolt be installed on a multi-stall restroom door in an office building? Of course not! But wait…are you sure about that?
This is the last week of the 10th anniversary celebration, but there’s still time for you to register to win – AND to learn more about the resources available on iDigHardware!
Chris Stokes of Precision Doors and Hardware sent me today’s Fixed-it Friday photos, taken in a gas station/convenience store. At first, this looks like careless placement of a trash can…
How do you replace existing pivots when you don’t know the manufacturer or model number? Is there a reliable way to identify existing pivots? Are replacements for old pivots readily available? WWYD?
Bryce King of Allegion sent me today’s Wordless Wednesday photo…I guess this is one way to deal with a lockout! Send me your WW/FF photos to register to win some Yeti merch from iDH!
My next Decoded column addresses the accessibility requirements for thresholds and changes in level at doorways. If there is anything I should add, let me know before it goes to print!
My Decoded column in the October issue of Door Security + Safety Magazine covers the history of iDigHardware, with some code development and a little of my life story thrown in. 😀
I’m sure you have some photos hiding in your phone that could be suitable for Wordless Wednesday, Fixed-it Friday, or to illustrate a question or problem. Submit them and you might be a winner!
Much of the testimony given at a recent hearing clearly outlines the reasons that barricade devices are not the optimal method of securing classroom doors.
We need to always be on the lookout for situations like these – our attention to these problems can affect the safety of building occupants. #seesomethingsaysomething
I love using creative ways of getting a message out – especially when the message will likely save lives. Check out these videos and VOTE!
You asked for an improved search feature to help you find what you’re searching for in iDigHardware’s library of 2,300+ posts…here it is!
I love these Fixed-it Friday photos from Richard de Campo of Poss Architecture + Planning and Interior Design. This door leads from the showroom area to the welding shop at The Iron Gallery in Rifle, Colorado.
Is the door serving a walk-in closet in an apartment or condominium required to comply with the means of egress requirements of the IBC? WWYD?
Comments: 19
Remember when I went to Italy in July and I took hundreds of photos of doors and then hardly shared any of them with y’all because some of the photos were going to be published in Door Security + Safety Magazine?
iDigHardware has been celebrating our 10-year anniversary for several months, and the party will continue through September, with your chance to win one of the daily or weekly prizes!
The door in these photos is at the top of the stairs in a bar, exiting from a non-sprinkled basement assembly room that is used for weddings and parties. What do you think? OK or NO WAY?
If an existing lockset on a classroom door requires a teacher to open the door when locking it (potentially exposing the teacher to danger), there is a way to change the lock function at a reasonable price.
This sign – and the fire door it’s attached to – are definitely left over from the Olden Days. There was a time when fire doors were closed manually to protect the building when it was unoccupied.
The pre-recorded Decoded classes do not offer AIA credit, but the live webinars do! There’s one coming up in a few weeks…
This is a “pod” in an airport, to be used by nursing moms. I’ve seen them myself, but the one I looked at only had the keypad lock and did not have the separate deadbolt.
John Bianco uploaded these photos to the “There’s no crying in Hollow Metal” Facebook page, and he said I could share them here for Fixed-it Friday. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen this fix. How about you?
This is an important post about a change that has been made to NFPA 101-2018, regarding the allowable number of operations to unlatch a classroom door.
This is the only door leading to a small auditorium located in the children’s section of the local library. I don’t have a problem with the castle theme, since this is the outside of the door. Anyone see the issue?
This presentation – WN@TL – School Safety in America: Rhetoric vs Reality – David Perrodin – is well worth a listen. It supports the concerns about classroom barricade devices and school security decision-making.
Why are the security measures in these two school districts so different? In your opinion, what are the most important physical security measures for schools to implement?
