Fire Protection
Procedure & Guidance
Single / Multi-Point Access Control Systems
Ref
Issue/Revision Date
01/06/2011
Review Date
01/07/2014
Version
FS- NFG053
7.0
“Single / Multi-Point Access Control Systems with Provision of Electric Cut Out Override in form of
a Commercial Emergency Control System, Break Glass Type Box or Switch”
Description
The installation of electronic locking or means of securing doors on exit routes, between different
occupancies or on final exit doors not in normal use is detailed in this note for guidance. It includes
electronic locks and strike plates (electro-mechanical devices), electro-magnets and mag locks
(electro-magnetic devices). Self contained commercial emergency control systems fall into this
area and may operate electro-mechanical or magnetic release devices.
Electro-magnetic devices are normally installed at the top of doors and their frames. For higher
levels of security, additional magnets can be located in the meeting styles. The security function is
provided by the electro-magnetic force of the magnet and can vary in parting strengths. To function
efficiently, the electro-magnet and its keep plate must touch and often one side of the device is
designed to float or move to ensure adhesion.
Any form of security device installed in a fire door should not reduce its fire resistance below the
requirements of the relevant enforcing authority. Surface mounted devices are unlikely to cause
significant problems unless the fixing screws, bolts, etc, penetrate deeply into the door structure.
Fixings which pass through the door are unacceptable.
A few specialist manufacturers incorporate a security plate or pins which rise or drop to secure the
door against attack on loss of power. These are not to be considered on means of escape
routes.
System Planning
In new build or alterations to existing premises where it is proposed that electronic security devices
are to be installed there must be early consultation between the consultants, clients, fire service
and Building Regulations Authority or Approved Inspector.
Such consultation should cover the following points
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Assess the requirements of the system; is there a viable alternative?
Who are the installers?
What is the methodology of the system?
What the system is required to achieve?
Has a full risk assessment of the proposed system including how it will be managed and
maintained been completed?
When assessing the risk of the door and security device the following should be considered
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Is securing the door the only option?
Is the chosen device correct for the circumstances?
Can all the occupants escape using the override?
Has full training in the use of the particular device been delivered to staff?
Has the device been correctly installed?
Is the installation company reputable?
Is there a robust maintenance regime in place?
What is the quality and reliability of the components?
Record all details of the contract and request written method statements from the designers and
installers that can be used by the responsible person to formulate a safety document at the end of
the contract which can be audited and verified from the information gathered.
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If it is a large and complex system it may be advisable to use an accredited third party for
commissioning and design analysis. This option should be voiced at the outset of the project.
All electronic locks installed on escape routes should release on detection of fire irrespective of the
arrangement for evacuation.
The phenomenon of residual magnetic effect experienced in a limited number of electro-magnetic
devices may be avoided by correct design and installation.
Usage
All possible alternatives should be researched before electronic security devices are provided on
doors on means of escape routes. If the issue is security there are other more appropriate methods
that can be applied, subject to the circumstances of each case.
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Those methods could simply be a relay and sounder on each door or a comprehensive CCTV
system linked to a security system / centre. Such solutions are many and varied dependent upon
the situation.
The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority does not recommend the use of electronically
secured doors on means of escape routes in premises where the doors will be used by substantial
numbers of members of the public or in premises that need a licence including bars and places of
public entertainment.
This is based on members of the public perceived lack of familiarity with the building, reluctance to
use manual release controls, and in the event of fire, the delay in the operation of the manual call
points that sometimes occurs in these buildings.
Where means of escape arrangements require a person to enter an adjacent premises and
electronic locks are provided to both establishments, the operation of either break glass cut out
switch should, without the use of relays, unlock both doors. Their acceptance has to be based on
Risk Assessment.
Problems
There are many problems associated with these types of devices and listed below are some
common causes of system failure;
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Incorrect wiring.
Systems return to a non fire state because of a fire affecting cabling or because it is
silenced on the assumption of a false alarm.
Relay circuit in the fire alarm sounder circuit failing and releasing doors.
Use of inappropriate relays for the required category system.
Someone working on the system.
Methods of Actuation
There are a limited number of methods of actuating the release mechanism;
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The operation of a manual call point that forms part of a fire detection and alarm system.
Operation of an automatic fire detection or suppression system such as a sprinkler head.
Use of an evacuation control at the fire detection and alarm control panel as recommended
in BS 5839 part 1 2002, 23.2.3(b).
Use of manual release controls either central or local to each door.
The most common method of actuation is a manual control readily distinguishable from a fire alarm
call point provided in close proximity to each secured door. Operation of the manual control should
cause interruption of the power supply to the door release mechanism so causing the door to open.
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Electro-magnetic devices normally fail safe in the open position on the loss of power as the
magnetic force is lost. Care should be taken that any floating plate arrangement does not include
locating pins or lip as an external force on the door may prevent it from parting.
A break glass unit, identifiable by being coloured green or a commercial emergency control device
should be connected so that it will cut the power supply directly to the door lock without reliance on
a relay. Each break glass unit should be of a 'double pole type' that interrupts both lines of supply.
This reduces the possibility of earth or frame faults preventing the emergency opening of the lock.
The device should be located at about eye level. A simple notice or graphic symbol of a reasonable
size indicating the method of opening should be provided adjacent to the device. This should be in
addition to any inscription on the break glass unit or switch.
The device which is selected to cut the power should be suitable for the likely occupants. The
following factors should be taken into consideration:
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The ease of opening the lock; the reliability of the trigger.
The availability of staff training.
To ensure they operate regardless of the state of the fire detection and alarm system it is essential
that the manual release system is wired directly in series with the power supply to the release
mechanism. Confirmation of this must be considered at design, installation and commissioning
stages.
Actuation of Release Mechanisms on Doors
It is important that BS 7273 part 4 2007 is read when considering any form of release mechanism
on a door used for means of escape.
Door release mechanisms must fail safe (i.e. to open), on power failure or in the event of virtually
any form of failure of the fire detection and fire alarm system or of the interconnection between that
system and the door hardware. The door hardware must perform as if a fire signal had been
received at the control panel of the fire detection and alarm system.
Care must be taken to ensure that where the power supply to a magnetic lock is independent of
the power supply to the fire detection and alarm system that the door(s) will continue to fail to open
if there is a power failure in either circuit
Only electronic locks which fail safe in the open position are considered acceptable for operation
by electric cut out devices. A pressure applied to a door, forcing the locking bolt against the keep
or strike, must not inhibit its opening when the cut out is operated. Manufacturers can provide
electro-mechanical locking systems which operate with a variety of side pressures, the higher the
certified side pressure the more suitable the lock.
In the design of the interface between the release mechanism and the fire detection and alarm
system control panel, account must be taken of the slightest failure in the equipment that transmits
a signal to the release mechanism and with this in mind the following conditions should cause the
release mechanism to fail safe open.
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Open or short circuit of the wiring that forms part of the critical signal path.
Any reduction of power supply voltage.
The failure of either the main or standby power supply to the fire detection and alarm
system.
Simultaneous occurrence of main and standby power supply.
A short or open circuit of the manual call point or fire detector on which the release
mechanism is dependent.
The removal of a manual call point or fire detector as indicated in ‘e’ above.
Any earth fault that prevents the fire detection and alarm system from detecting fire.
The rupture of any fuse or other protective device.
A short or open circuit between any of the separate control equipment.
A system fault in the software controlled fire alarm.
The disablement of a manual call point or fire detector.
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The failure of radio equipment or short and open circuit of transmitting equipment.
The override device may be illuminated internally and where applicable, externally by an
emergency lighting point.
Manual Release Control Specific Requirements
In order to ensure the manual release points are readily functional and identifiable in an emergency
they must be;
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Prominently sited.
Easily identified.
Simple to use.
Not to be confused with manual fire alarm call points.
Should be predominantly green in colour.
"EMERGENCY DOOR RELEASE" should be engraved on the device.
All manual releases should be identical.
The switch mechanism must be double pole.
Must be connected directly in series with power supply.
The delay between actuation and release should not exceed 3 seconds.
Must be fixed a minimum of 1.2 metres above finished floor level.
Should be positioned alongside fire alarm break glass points where these are present in
same location.
Where exits are in use by persons in wheelchairs consideration has to be given to having
accessible duplicate break glass points
Well illuminated with emergency lighting within 2 metres horizontally.
Easily accessible.
As close as possible to associated door but no more than two metres.
Mounted against a contrasting background.
Not flush mounted.
Signage "IN EMERGENCY BREAK GLASS TO OPEN DOOR" in at least 20mm high
lettering on a green background with the attached pictogram shown below.
Panic Exit Devices
In accordance with BS EN 1125, 1995, where final exit doors relating to means of escape from
public buildings, for example places of entertainment, licensed premises, shops, educational
establishments, hospitals etc, such doors must be fitted with panic devices operated by a
horizontal bar to common European Standard specification.
In a panic situation a group of people will react differently to an individual, when two or more
people are rushing to a door, probably in poor lighting and/or smoke, it is possible that the first one
to reach the door will not necessarily operate the panic device but will push the door face while
subsequent people following will try to operate the horizontal bar by hand or body pressure.
In these circumstances a manual break glass point cannot be considered an appropriate door
release mechanism even though the system is also connected into a BS 5839 part 1 fire detection
and alarm system. However, micro switches incorporated within panic fastenings may be utilised to
cut the power to an electro-mechanical or magnetic device. These are classed as switching
devices and not a system in its own right.
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Power Supplies
In order to maintain the integrity of the power supply to the fire detection and alarm system the
power supply for the release mechanism must be independent of the fire detection and alarm
system power supply. It is not appropriate or safe to supply power to the release mechanism from
the fire detection and alarm system in the non fire state.
With electronically secured doors it is vital that release mechanisms fail safe open on total power
failure and therefore need to be of the type that requires power in order to keep the door secure.
For reasons of security a standby power supply may be installed, however it is essential that the
manual release control interrupts this supply as well as the normal supply to release the door
mechanism.
Any batteries used as a normal supply for the release mechanism must be capable of providing
power to operate the release mechanism correctly for twelve months.
Cables Wiring and Connections
MICS mineral insulated copper sheathed cables to BS EN 60702-1 and steel wired armoured cable
to BS 6724 or 7846 may be used throughout all parts of the critical signal path without additional
mechanical protection. Any other type of cable should be given additional protection using trays,
burying it in the structure or by installation in conduit, trunking or ducting.
Where circuits of the critical signal path do not fail safe the cables and their method of installation
should conform to BS 5839 part 1.
Connections to a Fire Alarm System
The fire alarm panel manufacturer should always be contacted to ensure the auxiliary relays
contained within the fire alarm panel, which will release the door, are of a suitable quality for life
safety. Relays connected to any locking device must be energised in the non-alarm condition, i.e.
the relay will be de-energised on alarm and will therefore tend to fail safe. Software driven systems
must be written on the assumption that lives will be directly dependent on the code and multiple
self check routines must be included.
The fire alarm panel should be linked with the security devices in such a way that neither the panel
nor its function can be damaged or inhibited under any circumstances.
Electronic locking devices should not under normal circumstances be linked to fire alarm bell
circuits. If this method is the only practical option the lock must latch and remain in the open
position on activation of the fire alarm. This will alleviate the problem of silenced alarms re-locking
the door.
All panels should conform to the relevant standard and be designed, installed and serviced in
accordance with the recommendations of that standard. It is recommended that the interlinking of
electronic locking devices is only undertaken if a service agreement is operative for the fire alarm
system.
A notice in or on the fire alarm panel should confirm that the system is linked to electronic locks for
the benefit of successive electrical engineers. The notice should include type, number of devices
fitted and linking methodology.
When automatic smoke detection is being considered, it should be appropriate to the fire risk. Its
provision allows early detection and evacuation in a fire situation and may open electronic devices
via the fire alarm without the need for a human response. Automatic fire detection should always
be provided in accordance with the relevant standard. On completion of any work on the system, a
full function test of the devices should be undertaken to ensure release of the electronic locks
under alarm conditions.
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Planning and Testing
Commercial emergency exit control systems can be linked to a door release mechanism in a
number of ways. In its simplest form, many imitate a break glass call point or switch protected from
non emergency use by a protective cover. They have an advantage of being able to offer a wider
range of functions, including door and lock monitoring. These devices should be scrutinised in a
similar manner to any other device and certificates of test and manufacture obtained to
authenticate a stated standard.
Manufacturers' information concerning the installation, environment, maintenance and testing of
the lock should be obtained prior to acceptance for verification and file purposes. Written
confirmation should also be obtained from the installing locksmith/electrician that the devices have
been correctly fitted to the manufacturers' specifications, and that the occupier has been informed
of the maintenance and test requirements.
Written confirmation should also be obtained from the connecting electrical engineer that the
devices have been correctly interlinked to the fire alarm panel and tested.
Where staff training is taken as a compensatory feature to the installation of a device, especially
where members of the public are involved, frequency of training should be stipulated in the risk
assessment. Training frequencies must consider part time, agency/short term relief staff and be
recorded.
Electronic Door Locking Mechanisms – Check List
Usage
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Does the security installation affect routes used for means of escape?
If so, is there an alternative solution without the use of electronic security devices
available?
Has a risk assessment been carried out to assess the implications of the acceptance of
these devices?
Are substantial numbers (over 60) of members of the public using the premises?
Does the door or doors in question require a panic exit device in accordance with BS EN
1125 1995?
Are panic furniture devices incorporating micro switches required?
Doors that require emergency exit devices are they in accordance with BS EN 179 1997?
Is the premises licensed or used for public entertainment?
If this is a way leave situation between adjacent premises does the system allow both
doors to unlock without the use of relays?
Manual Controls
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Does the operation of the manual control interrupt the power supply directly to the door
release mechanism?
Is the device connected directly in series with the power supply?
Does the delay between actuation and release exceed 3 seconds?
Is this done without the use of a relay?
Is the door release break glass device a double pole type that interrupts both lines of
supply?
If the door release device is a break glass facility is the device green or a colour not to be
confused with the fire alarm call point?
Is the door release break glass device at eye level?
Is the door release break glass device prominently sited?
Is a fire alarm break glass point in the vicinity of the door release break glass device?
Is EMERGENCY DOOR RELEASE engraved on the door release device?
Are all door release break glass devices on the premises identical?
Is the door release break glass device easily accessible and fixed at least a minimum of 1.2
metres above finished floor level?
Where necessary, is the door release break glass device well illuminated from emergency
lighting?
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Is the door release break glass device within 2 metres of the door it is associated with?
Is the door release break glass device mounted against a contrasting background?
Is the door release break glass device flush mounted?
Is there signage above the door release break glass device in a minimum of 20mm high
lettering stating IN EMERGENCY BREAK GLASS TO OPEN DOOR on a green
background?
Is there an appropriate pictogram with the device? POWER SUPPLIES
Is the power supply to the fire detection and alarm system independent of the power supply
to the release mechanism?
Does the release mechanism fail safe open on total power failure?
Does the power supply maintain the door mechanism in the secure mode?
Are the batteries that supply the release mechanism capable of providing power to release
the mechanism correctly for twelve months?
Cables and Wiring
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Is the cabling to the critical signal path MICS mineral insulated copper sheathed to BS EN
60702 part i?
Is the cabling to the critical signal path steel wired armoured cable to BS 6724 or 7846?
If the cabling is not to BS EN 60702, BS 6724 or 7846 is it in metal trays, conduit, trunking,
and ducting or buried in the building structure?
Are the circuits of the critical signal path that do not fail safe installed in cables and to a
method that conforms to BS 5839 part 1 ?
Fire Alarm System
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Have the fire alarm installers / manufacturers confirmed the auxiliary relays in the panel
which release the door/s are of a suitable quality for life safety?
Have multiple self check routines been programmed into the system software to ensure that
locking devices are energised in a non alarm condition?
Are smoke detectors provided to operate electronic security devices via the fire alarm?
Is the smoke detection provided and installed to the appropriate relevant standard?
Does the fire alarm panel conform to the relevant standard?
Is the fire alarm panel linked into the security devices in such a way that the panel and its
functions cannot be damaged or inhibited?
Is the fire alarm panel designed, installed and serviced in accordance with the
recommendations of the relevant standard?
Are the electronic locking devices linked into the fire alarm panel under a service
agreement?
Is there a notice on the fire alarm panel confirming that the system is linked to the electronic
locks?
Does the notice include the number and type of devices fitted and their linking
methodology?
Are the electronic locking devices linked into the fire alarm bell circuit and is this method
the only practical last resort option?
If the answer is yes and to avoid the problem of silenced alarms relocking the security door
does the lock latch secure itself into the open position on actuation of the fire alarm?
Has a full function test of the smoke detection been witnessed to ensure the release of the
electronic locks under alarm conditions?
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Certification
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Have certificates been obtained regarding the correct manufacture and test of the electronic
security device to the stated standard?
Have certificates been obtained regarding the installation, environment, maintenance and
testing regime?
Have the certificates been verified as correct?
Has written confirmation been obtained from the connecting electrical engineer that the
devices have been correctly interlinked to the fire alarm panel and tested?
Staff Training
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Has full training of appropriate staff using the door release devices been undertaken?
Is the training including the frequency recorded?
Is the training recorded as a significant finding in the risk assessment?
Does the training regime consider new starters, part time and agency staff?
Are staff trained to include assisting visitors and contractors?
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WEST YORKSHIRE FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE
Fire Safety – Electronic Door Locks Installation & Acceptance
FSFRM087
Premises
Occupier name CBPpremname
Ref
CBPfileno
Address CBPpremadd
CBPprempc
Lock Type Fitted
Electro-Magnetic
Electro-Mechanical1
Delete where applicable.
Installation (carried out by)
Name
Address
Postcode
Telephone
I/We certify that the electrical securing devices fitted in the above premises, on any route designated as a means
of escape in case fo fire satisfy the following criteria;
The device is inherently fail-safe open on mains power failure.
Yes
No
Security plates and/or pins, which secure the door on mains failure have NOT been incorporated.
Yes
No
A double pole green break glass box, which releases the door manually, has been fitted adjacent to
the door2
Yes
No
Release mechanisms/green break glass call points are covered by emergency lighting to BS 5266.
Yes
No
The operation of the securing device override(s) is/are indicated by signage complying with the
Health & Safety (Safety Signs & Signals Regs)
Yes
No
The building occupier has been given written instructions on the operation and testing of the devices.
Yes
No
The securing device is linked to the Building Alarm System
Yes
No
The fire alarm system is installed to BS 5839 Part 1
Yes
No
The fire alarm panel to which securing devices are connected complies with the BS 5839 Part 4.
Yes
No
Each electrical securing device is connected to an independent relay monitored by the panel.
Yes
No
It is indicated within the panel that relays connected to the panel are there to release securing
devices.
Yes
No
Deviations from above
Responsible Person Signature
Date
On behalf of
Qualification/NICEIC
1
Electro-mechanical devices are unlikely to be acceptable in most premises.
Devices should not be linked to fire alarm break glass manual call points.
3. Further provisions will be necessary in premises with central control room controlled door releases.
4. Items in italics would normally be considered mandatory for acceptance of electrical securing devices.
2
Any person who makes any statement or gives information knowing it to be false shall be guilty of an offence under
the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005