Escape Hardware Standards

To simplify the specification of escape hardware a european standard has been introduced. Escape hardware is classified using an 9 digit code which covers aspects such as cycle testing, security and suitability for use on fire doors.

EN1125

Panic exit devices to BS EN 1125: These devices are intended primarily for buildings where the public are likely to be present and a panic situation could arise if the building is required to be evacuated quickly. For this reason the devices are designed to operate by body pressure alone and require no knowledge of their operation to enable safe and effective evacuation of a building. BS EN 1125, therefore, contains specific performance tests to ensure that a panic device will release by body pressure even if people are pushing on the door leaf itself while the device is being operated.

EN179

Emergency exit devices to BS EN 179 : These devices are intended for escape from buildings where the public are unlikely to be present in large numbers, and where the staff in the building have been trained both in emergency procedures and in the use of the specific emergency exit devices fitted. For this reason, panic situations are considered unlikely and these devices are therefore permitted to have higher operating forces and do not have to release by body pressure alone.