Did you know?

Question: In what circumstances must you install a Door Hold Open Device?

Answer: On an inward opening door that services a building with a floor area of not more than 200m2 where this door is the only required (or designated) exit from the building/tenancy.

NCC Vol 1, Sec D2.20 “Swinging Doors”

The theory behind this requirement is as follows:

The first person exiting the premises should use the hold open device to make it easier for other persons to exit. A hold open device should be fitted regardless whether additional deadlocks have been fitted to the inward opening door.

The fitting of a hold open device may present an “add on sales” opportunity. For example, if you are rekeying the door, or fitting a new lock, and you notice that a hold open device is not fitted, you should inform the client that the door is non-compliant with the NCC. If the client decides not to fit a hold open advice, you should note on the invoice that you have bought the non-compliance to the client’s attention and that the client elected not to have a hold open device fitted at the time you carried out the job.

Important note: Fire Rated doors must not be fitted with any hold open device, unless they are hard-wired directly into the smoke detection system, and they release automatically

The hold open device must be quick and simple to use, and not ‘hidden’ behind the door as it is being pushed against the wall.

The use of cabin hooks is not recommended.

The following hold open devices are suitable:

Kaba DS 122

The Kaba DS122 is ideal when installation is required on the outside of the door. The installation of a DS 122 prevents occupants from being accidently or deliberately locked inside.

The DS122 is also ideal when there is a large gap under the door.

Kaba DS 128

Commercial Grade Door Closers

Another suitable option is a commercial grade door closer with a hold open option that has been activated. 

DARREN NASH

DECEMBER 13, 2019