Fire door electronic locks
As technology continues to advance, electronic locks, also known as smart locks, are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and enhanced security features. However, when it comes to fire doors, the installation of these locks presents a unique set of challenges and compliance issues. Here’s an in-depth look at the considerations and regulations surrounding the use of fire door electronic locks.
Benefits of fire door electronic locks
Electronic locks offer numerous advantages, including:
- the ability to reconfigure access without the need for re-keying,
- generating logs of door access,
- and creating different keys for various users.
These features can significantly enhance security and provide valuable insights into access patterns.
Compliance and Approval
Despite their benefits, installing electronic locks on fire doors in strata is not straightforward. Any modifications to fire doors, including the addition of electronic locks, require written approval from the Owners Corporation. This is because unit entry doors, which serve as fire doors, don’t belong to individual unit owners. Their legal status is as common property of the strata.
Fire Door Approved Hardware Logs
For an electronic lock to be installed on a fire door, it must have testing and approval for use on that specific type of fire door. The fire resistance level of the door hardware must match or exceed that of the fire door itself. This information is typically in a fire test or an assessment by a recognized testing authority in Australia, in accordance with the standard AS/NZS 1905 Part 1.
Building owners and residents can determine the type of fire door by checking the fire door tag. Once they identify the door, they can request the approved hardware log from the manufacturer to ensure the electronic lock is on the list and has approval for use.
Evidence of Compliance
When a technician from RedMen encounters an electronic lock on a fire door, they require the resident or owner to provide evidence of compliance. This evidence usually comes in the form of a test assessment report or an approved hardware log. If the lock has no approval for use, a locksmith must remove it and replace it with a compliant lockset.
Installation Recommendations
Before deciding to install an electronic lock, it is crucial to get written approval from the Owners Corporation and confirm that the chosen lock has approval for use with the specific type of fire door. We recommend that a licensed locksmith carry out the installation to ensure it adheres to manufacturer specifications and fire safety standards.
Conclusion
Electronic locks offer enhanced security and convenience. However, their installation on fire doors requires careful consideration and strict adherence to fire safety regulations. By following the necessary steps and obtaining the required approvals, building owners and residents can ensure their electronic locks are both safe and compliant. For more detailed advice and compliance information, consulting with fire safety professionals like RedMen is highly recommended.
RedMen: your fire door electronic locks solution provider
REDMEN Fire Protection Management is a NSW fire protection provider and we know the industry inside and out. With offices in Sydney, Newcastle and the NSW Central Coast, we have hundreds of years of combined experience in fire protection. We have tracked the evolution of fire standards and legislation, and even been instrumental in their development.
Our fire door expert staff will provide a free walk-around to make sure that you are compliant with the legislation, and not at risk of legal jeopardy. There are severe financial penalties for non compliance. Just contact us today and we can set up an appointment today and we will be able to set your mind at ease.
