This application is not acceptable – even on a dwelling unit entry door where two releasing motions are permitted by the model codes. The lockset and latchset shown here would require two simultaneous motions to unlatch the door. This requirement has been clarified in the 2024 edition of NFPA 101.
When Mark Kuhn and I were in Savannah for the recent BHMA meetings, we came across this door in the conference hotel, and a few days later I received a related Quick Question:
On a residential dwelling unit or sleeping unit, is there a limit to the number of security devices (night latches, dead bolts, manual bolts, security chains) that can be installed along with the latchset/lockset?
Doors in most locations require hardware that unlatches the door with one releasing motion, for example, turning a lever or pushing on the pushpad of the panic hardware. There are exceptions in both sets of model codes used in the US, that apply to dwelling units and sleeping units. These exceptions allow security devices in addition to the lockset or latchset, but how many of these devices may be installed? How many releasing motions are allowed?
The applicable excerpts from the model codes are below. The intent of the model codes is for a second releasing motion to be permitted for the unit entry, not a third, fourth, etc. So in my opinion, the model codes allow one lockset + one deadbolt (OR night latch OR security chain, etc.).
IBC-2024: Doors from individual dwelling or sleeping units of Group R occupancies permitted to have a single exit in accordance with Section 1006.2.1 or 1006.3.4 are permitted to be equipped with a night latch, dead bolt, manual bolt, or security chain that requires a second releasing motion, provided that such devices are openable from the inside without the use of a key or tool.
NFPA 101-2024: Egress door assemblies from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided with devices, including automatic latching devices, that require not more than one additional releasing motion provided that releasing does not require simultaneous operations, and provided that such devices are operable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and are mounted at a height not exceeding 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor.
So, one additional security device…do you agree?
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Agree
But isn’t the picture, one of the entry side? To get into the unit?
Now the picture is more than likely in violation of ADA, unless there is no bolt on the bottom lever?
Hi Charles –
Yes, it’s on the entry side but I’m assuming there are two levers on the egress side. And yes, it’s an ADA issue too.
– Lori
I could see that possibility
Plus the bolt for the bottom one might be gone,,,, but even if the bolt is gone, people still might reach for both handles.
Thank you for providing an answer to this unique question. I believe it was me who referred this inquiry to iDigHardware as I knew that you could provide the answer and the references.