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InformationEuropean Standard for Hardware
New European Standard for Panic & Emergency Exit Hardware EN179 and EN112520 August 2009
Over the last 10 years the UK has seen the introduction of many new Standards for Door Hardware being introduced, and with products being certified for use on Fire Doors, it is extremely important that the choice of product and the correct fitting is carried out in accordance to manufacturer’s instructions. Incorrect specification or failing to follow the fitting instructions, could lead to prosecution, particularly should an incident occur.
Products used on Fire Doors and Doors on Escape Routes now have to carry the CE Mark for safety. For many years Building Regulations have stated that products must be fit for purpose. However, no prosecutions have been made known relating to Contractors changing specifications to fit cheaper products of less a quality. Therefore, Standards have been more advisory for door specifications rather than compulsory. The new Panic & Emergency Exit Hardware standards, EN1125 and EN179, respectively have seen a number of changes, since the previous version was published in 1997. Contractors will no longer be able to fit products that have not been tested together, such as a Panic Bolt from one manufacturer and an Outside Access Device from another or a Digital Lock that has not been tested by an Independent Test House. The new standard was released in December 2008 and therefore manufacturers have until December 2009, to fully test their products to the new standard. Here is a summary of the changes:- EN179 : 2008 • Now includes testing inward opening doors, fitted with a lever handle or a Pull Pad operator • Lock cases can be tested with Lever Handles, cannot claim “Tested for use with Panic or Emergency Exit Hardware” – This would require another test. • Design requirements have changed allowing more flexibility of design for a lever handle. Outside Access Devices • Now have to be tested with the hardware • All devices, such as Rim Cylinders and digital locks must be listed by the Manufacturer in their fitting instructions / declarations |
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