Panic hardware devices are designed to facilitate the release of the latching device on a door with a pressure note xceeding

Panic hardware devices are designed to facilitate the release of the latching device on a door with a pressure note xceeding
A . 5 pounds (2.3 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel.
B . 10 pounds (4.5 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel.
C . 15 pounds (6.8 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel.
D . 20 pounds (9.1 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel.

View Answer

Answer: C

Explanation:

Panic hardware devices are designed to facilitate the release of the latching device on a door with a pressure not exceeding 15 pounds (6.8 kg.) is applied in the direction of exit travel. This is the maximum force allowed by the codes and standards that regulate the use and installation of panic hardware, such as NFPA 101, NFPA 80, and ANSI/BHMA A156.3. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that the doors can be easily opened by anyone in an emergency situation, without prior knowledge or special effort.

References: Codes to Know for Panic Hardware – Facilitiesnet; Panic and emergency escape hardware | ASSA ABLOY | ASSA ABLOY; NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2023 Edition, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.1.7.2; NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives, 2023 Edition, Chapter 6, Section 6.1.3.5.1; ANSI/BHMA A156.3, Standard for Exit Devices, 2014 Edition, Section 4.1.1.