How to select lock for emergency door?

Emergency exit doors are very important for a quick escape from buildings in times of emergencies and it is crucial to install on them the right locks in order to meet strict safety regulation.

Magnetic locks

Magnetic locks have strong magnets on the door frame and metal plates on the door and when the magnet is turned on it pulls the metal plate and locks the door. If the power goes out the magnet turns off and the door unlocks so people can leave easily.

Mostly installed in building entrances because they keep the doors secure while letting people exit quickly in emergencies. This locks are quite popular and a very informed choice for keeping doors secure.

Electric locks

Electric locks use a bolt to keep a door locked and with an electric pulse it fold back the bolt, letting you open the door. They are different from magnetic locks because they stay locked until someone with the right permissions usually a code unlocks them.

From the inside electric locks include REX device (request-to-exit ) like a push bar so people inside can open the door without needing a key or code. This makes sure that people can quickly and safely leave in an emergency.

Delayed egress locks

This locks are different as they delay the door opening up to 30 seconds when someone tries to exit. An alarm is usually turned on right away if someone tries to use the door.

This locks are typically used in warehouses and big stores where it is needed in order to prevent theft attempts or to prevent people from leaving without permission.

Controlled egress locks

This locks have electromagnetic mechanism that can only be unlocked remotely. Unlike delayed egress locks that work with timers this locks stay locked until someone opens them manually.

A good example for their use is in mental care facilities where they are very useful in stopping people from wandering off and staff can unlock the doors whenever needed while keeping everything secure.