I’m preparing to do some training on this topic, so I’d love to get some feedback from readers.  Please share your insight/experience in the comments!

Of the many code-related topics I’ve addressed on iDigHardware in the last 16 years, this one refuses to die.  It has become my life’s mission to resolve this issue.  Well…part of my life’s mission anyway.

Beginning with the 2009 editions of the model codes, a requirement was added for some (NOT ALL) electrified hardware system components to be listed to UL 294 – Standard for Access Control System Units.  The model codes were not particularly clear on a) which components of the systems required the listings (locks, power supplies, readers, power transfers, etc.), or b) that “normal locking arrangements” were not subject to the requirements for the UL 294 listings.

This was clarified in the 2024 model codes, which include the following requirement for certain electrified hardware systems:  The electromechanical or electromagnetic locking device shall be listed in accordance with either UL 294 or UL1034.  This clearly states that the locks require the listing (not every component of the system), and that the products can be listed to either UL 294 or UL 1034 – Standard for Burglary-Resistant Electric Locking Mechanisms.

A section has also been added to the I-Codes which clarifies that not all electrified hardware systems are considered special locking arrangements.  The UL 294 / UL 1034 listings are not required by code for “normal locking arrangements.”  These are systems that allow free egress via operation of the door hardware, regardless of the status of the access control system.

I will be writing more about this change to take us a few steps closer to achieving my life’s mission, but for today I want to ask you some questions:

• What are you seeing out in the field regarding the UL 294 / UL 1034 listings?
• Are AHJs asking for documentation of the listings for normal locking arrangements, and/or for components other than the locks?
• How can I help to clarify the intent of the model codes on this topic?  What do you need from me?
  

WWYD?  Please share your insight and ideas…I can’t accomplish my life’s mission without you!

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