This is the rear exit of a liquor store. Although the store was closed when this photo was taken, on the other side of the door there is an exit sign, panic hardware, a surface bolt, and a padlock. This type of retrofit is common when additional security is needed, but it is NOT code-compliant.
What can we do to help educate the public and improve life safety? I’m all ears.
Thank you to Charles Anderson for the photos!
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How is a cane bolt with a padlock on it safer than a panic device? This retro fit almost seems like taking a step back if anything.
It’s not safer but it is probably more secure, especially if the panics aren’t adjusted properly.
How about remove the hasp and use a motion detector to start a message. “Please stay right here, I am calling the Dalworthington police to assist you…”
I guess we need something similar to the “call before you dig” campaign.
“ALL lives matter. Call your AHJ before modifying doors and putting lives at risk. This has been a public service announcement.”
Lori,
I am shocked anew every time you post another “bonehead in action”. No-one should need a code expert to know that this is dangerous. As my grandmother used to say, “Nothing is foolproof in the hands of a fool.”
The problem is Life Safety vs. Security.
Life Safety people want to get everyone out of building, Security people want to lock it down. Two very different mind-sets. It’s like the Hatfield and McCoys.
This problem is not going away anytime soon.
I am going to add a third point and build a traingle from Life Safety and Security and that is to add Owners. I see two problems. The owner’s goal is low cost and that is parts and labour. The hardware exists for good doors to seal them up with devices like a Trident exit device. Most liquor stores will not invest that coin if the regulatory need is not there. Also, such hardware needs good doors and frames. (Off the top of my head, I do not think some of the high security exit devices work on double doors.)
The other issue is the lack of choice in compliant high security hardware. Granted the lack is a result of low demand as the price is quite high, but if more was produced more options would exist. Also, some of this rests with the doors as sometimes the best solution is to upgrade the door and not to try to patch with hardware. Why would an owner do that is an exit device is not there to give three point locking for instance.
I will agree with Chuck that the problem is not going away soon, if ever. My 3 cents Canadian.