Emergency exit doors

EN 1125 covers panic exit devices, usually a horizontal bar across the door, for places where the public may not know the building and a crowd could reach the door at once. EN 179 covers emergency exit devices, such as a lever handle or push pad, for areas used by staff who are familiar with the exit and its hardware. The building's fire strategy decides which applies to each door.

Yes. The door must always open freely from inside, but you can control the outside. Options include no outside trim at all, a fixed pull handle, or a lever with a key cylinder so authorised people can enter. Exit devices can also be monitored or alarmed to warn staff when the door is opened. Whatever you choose, the inside release must keep working without a key.

Only if it sits in a wall that the fire strategy requires to resist fire, such as a stair core or compartment wall. In that case the door must be a fire-rated assembly, and the exit device must be approved for fire doors of at least the same rating. Final exits in external walls often need no rating, but check your approved drawings for each door.

Test each exit regularly by opening it with the bar or pad, and check that it releases in one movement, swings fully open, then closes and latches again under the closer. Keep the route on both sides clear of stock, bins and parked vehicles, and check that exit signs are lit. Never chain, bolt or wedge an exit door, and keep a record of each check.

Escape routes and exit doors are approved by the authority having jurisdiction, which in Jordan is the General Directorate of Civil Defence, and in other countries the local civil defence authority. Agree the exit layout and hardware with them during design, before doors are ordered. Then send us the approved drawings and door schedule. Within Jordan, doors are typically delivered within 1 to 2 weeks; for export, lead time depends on quantity. We will confirm a production programme with your quotation.