Ensuring Safety and Compliance with Electromagnetic Locking Devices: A Comprehensive Guide
Raymond Dulac Fire Alarm Division Manager, Torbram Fire Protection
In the evolving landscape of building security, electromagnetic locking devices have become indispensable tools, ensuring that premises remain secure while maintaining safety protocols. These devices offer advanced security features but must adhere to stringent regulations to ensure they do not compromise safety during emergencies. This article delves into the key guidelines and requirements for the installation and operation of electromagnetic locking devices, as stipulated by the Ontario Building Code and related standards.
Fire Alarm System Compliance
The cornerstone of any building equipped with electromagnetic locking devices is a robust fire alarm system. According to section 3.2.4 of the Ontario Building Code, a compliant fire alarm system must be installed. This system serves as the foundation for integrating electromagnetic locking devices, ensuring they function correctly and reliably during emergencies.
Immediate Release Mechanisms
Electromagnetic locking devices are designed to release immediately under specific conditions to ensure rapid evacuation and safety. The following scenarios outline these critical release mechanisms:
1. Fire Alarm Activation: Upon activation of any fire alarm device, the delay between the fire alarm signal being sent and the device's release must be less than one second. If this delay exceeds one second, dual contacts in the manual pull station are required to ensure immediate release and signal the fire alarm control panel.
2. Power Loss: In the event of power loss to the fire alarm control panel or the locking device power source, the electromagnetic locking device must release. While battery backup is permissible to maintain the locks' secure state, an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) for the locking device is not allowed. This ensures that in the event of a power failure, the locking devices will still disengage, allowing safe evacuation.
3. Wiring Faults: Any fault detected in the wiring between the fire alarm panel and the locking device control unit must trigger the release of the electromagnetic locking device. This measure ensures that even in the case of electrical issues, the safety of the occupants is not compromised.
4. Manual Switch Activation: A manually operated switch must be accessible to authorized personnel and located near the building's main entrance or central alarm and control facility. This switch must be secure against unauthorized use, ensuring that only authorized individuals can operate it. The electromagnetic locking device must be manually reactivated once released, preventing automatic reactivation and ensuring that any release is deliberate and controlled.
Placement and Accessibility of Fire Alarm Manual Stations
Fire alarm manual stations play a crucial role in the safe operation of electromagnetic locking devices. They must be strategically placed within 600mm of doors equipped with these devices and positioned no higher than 1200mm above the finished floor. This strategic placement ensures that they are easily accessible in an emergency, facilitating quick action.
Emergency Lighting and Signage
Emergency lighting is essential for doors equipped with electromagnetic locking devices. It must be capable of illuminating the required signage on the door and the adjacent fire alarm pull station. The signage itself must be installed approximately 1500mm above the finished floor and be clearly legible. This ensures that during an emergency, occupants can easily identify and operate the necessary devices to exit safely.
Testing and Certification of Fire Alarm Manual Stations
Ensuring the reliability and functionality of fire alarm manual stations is critical. Any new or relocated fire alarm manual stations must be tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S537. A verification certificate confirming compliance must be available to submit to the local authority having jurisdiction. This rigorous testing process guarantees that the system operates as intended and can be relied upon in an emergency.
Door Hardware Placement
Accessibility is a key consideration in the placement of door hardware for doors equipped with electromagnetic locking devices. All door hardware and operational devices must be no higher than 1200mm above the finished floor. If existing door hardware does not comply with this requirement, it must be relocated. This ensures that all individuals, including those with disabilities, can easily operate the doors during an emergency.
Operation of By-Pass Switches
The operation of any by-pass switch used for testing the fire alarm system must trigger an audible and visual signal at the annunciator panel and monitoring station. Importantly, the operation of such a switch must not prevent the release of the electromagnetic locking device. This measure ensures that safety protocols are maintained even during routine system testing.
Restrictions on Installation
Electromagnetic locking devices must not be installed on doors requiring “panic” hardware. This includes exit doors from areas with an occupant load of more than 100, such as assembly occupancy areas, exit doors leading from stair shafts to exit lobbies, or doors from high hazard industrial areas. Ensuring these exits remain accessible is crucial in high-risk situations, where rapid evacuation is necessary.
Crossover Floor Doors
Crossover floor doors, which provide access to floor areas from exit stairs, may have electromagnetic locks if they comply with specific release device and signage requirements on both sides of the door. Installers must verify which floors require these crossover provisions with the building owner and existing signage. This ensures that these crucial access points remain functional and compliant with safety standards.
Electrical Compliance
All electrical wiring associated with the power supply to electromagnetic locking devices and fire alarm systems must receive approval from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). The Building Standards Department requires a final inspection certificate from ESA, confirming compliance with CAN/ULC-S524 standards. This ensures that the entire system meets stringent electrical safety requirements, providing an additional layer of security.
Conclusion
Adhering to these comprehensive requirements ensures that electromagnetic locking devices provide both security and safety. Proper installation, maintenance, and compliance with the Ontario Building Code and related standards are essential in safeguarding building occupants while maintaining robust security measures. By following these guidelines, building owners and managers can ensure that their properties are both secure and compliant with safety regulations.
Electromagnetic locking devices, when correctly installed and maintained, offer a high level of security without compromising safety. Their integration with fire alarm systems and adherence to strict placement, accessibility, and operational guidelines ensures that they function effectively during emergencies. This balance of security and safety is paramount in modern building management, where protecting occupants and assets is a top priority.
In summary, the installation and operation of electromagnetic locking devices require meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to established guidelines. By understanding and implementing these requirements, building owners and managers can create a secure environment that also prioritizes the safety and well-being of all occupants. As technology continues to advance, these guidelines will remain essential in ensuring that security measures do not come at the expense of safety.
Raymond Dulac is the Fire Alarm Division Manager and a registered CFAA Technician at Torbram Fire Protection, where he leverages over two decades of industry experience to oversee the installation, maintenance, and inspection of fire alarm systems. His commitment to fire safety extends beyond his professional role. Raymond is a director at large for the CFAA central Ontario chapter and the Chair of the education committee. He actively conducts training sessions to educate building owners, occupants and other technicians on fire safety protocols. Raymond's dedication and innovative approach have made him a respected authority in the fire protection industry.
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