Evan Ballard of Allegion saw this super cool OLD Von Duprin product on an exit serving one of the oldest restaurants in America – open since 1826! This paddle was probably state of the art at one time, but it wouldn’t be compliant with today’s codes, because the restaurant has a calculated occupant load of more than 200 people.
As many of you know, according to the International Building Code, doors serving assembly occupancies of 50 people or more can not have a lock or latch unless it is panic hardware (with the exception of key-operated locks). The model codes require panic hardware to have an actuating portion that measures at least half the width of the door, so the paddle doesn’t qualify.
You need to login or register to bookmark/favorite this content.
So I wonder if it is getting close to its life “”” Cycle Tests””???
That old VD44 is beautiful. What a rare find.
What a shame to have to swap out such a beautiful piece of history.
This device was sometimes encountered in my early days (1969) in the industry. It appears to be a 44 rim device. I hadn’t thought of that series device or the paddle option for many years.
JohnD. Buehler, AHC, FDAI
Oh yes, the ye olde Union Oyster House in Boston. The cobblestone street scene is dead giveaway!
Wish I could remember how many times I have pushed that very paddle! Good times, every time!