Height of Release Device for Doors

Learning Objective: To understand the requirements for the location of the release mechanism on doors in the means of egress.

By Robert Trotter, CBO, CFM, MCP - Manager, Sr. Life Safety Specialist

Doors in the means of egress including exit access doors from individual rooms must meet the applicable provisions of the Life Safety Code^® for the height of the releasing mechanism. Examples of devices that might be arranged to release latches include knobs, levers, and panic bars. This requirement is permitted to be satisfied by the use of conventional types of hardware, whereby the door is released by turning a lever, knob, or handle or by pushing against a panic bar, but not by unfamiliar methods of operation such as a blow to break glass. The operating devices should be capable of being operated with one hand and should not require tight grasping, tight pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate.

            NFPA 101^®, Life Safety Code^®, 2000 Edition, Section 7.2.1.5.4* states “A latch or other fastening device on a door shall be provided with a releasing device having an obvious method of operation and that is readily operated under all lighting conditions. The releasing mechanism for any latch shall be located not less than 34 in. (86 cm), and not more than 48 in. (122 cm), above the finished floor. Doors shall be operable with not more than one releasing operation.” Refer to the exception for egress doors from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies where applicable. The minimum mounting height for the releasing mechanism is not applicable to existing installations.

            When using The Joint Commission’s 2011 Hospital Accreditation Standards to identify this type of deficiency apply LS.02.01.20 Element of Performance 32 since the hospital would not be meeting this provision of the Life Safety Code^® for means of egress.