I saw this interesting Fixed-it Friday application in Mexico City – center pivoting gates leading to a large shopping area.  Some had egress doors to the side, others did not.

It’s a little bit like the sections of the model codes that permit key-operated locks (double-cylinder deadbolts) on certain occupancy types.  The idea there is that the building could not be operable with the main entrance locked, so the exit would permit free egress when the building or space was occupied.  I’m guessing the locking device for these gates is a padlock.

The model codes also permit security grilles under certain circumstances; here is the IBC section:

1010.3.4 In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

It would be impossible for the shopping area to be open for business/occupied with the gates rotated into the closed position, so I felt like it was pretty safe and well-designed.

What do you think?

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