Understanding Retrofitting Fire Resistant Locking Systems
The growing need for fire-resistant locking systems: with increased demands on building security, more property owners are exploring the prospect of improved access control through retrofitting fire doors with advanced locking systems.
Replacing standard mechanical locksets or outdated access control technologies with new, wirelessly enabled solutions offers a host of advantages to upgrade your existing systems, including real-time event reporting and improved abilities for controlling building access.
When considering a retrofit of locking systems on fire doors, it is essential to know the possible effects on your fire door certification. In some instances, retrofitting may cause the current certification to be null and void, resulting in needing a brand-new fire door that is suitable for the requirements of the locking system.
There are three main retrofit options that can be applied to suit different building performance needs including:
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1) Replacement with similar mechanical locksThis involves exchanging old mechanical locksets for similar ones typically equipped with standard lever handles for user convenience.
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2) Integration of electromechanical handlesInstalling electromechanical handles with appropriate locks provides a modern solution for wireless access control compatible with DIN or sash mortices.
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3) Migration from mechanical to electromechanical systemsAnother viable option is replacing conventional mechanical locks with electro-mechanically operatedalternatives enabling wireless real-time event monitoring, improving security.
There should be satisfactory documentary evidence that the lockset is suitable for use on any smoke and/or fire-resisting door to which it is intended.
Certification requirements
Locksets used for smoke/fire-resisting doors must meet prescribed compliancy regulations. Test reports that are acceptable should be following standards like BS 476-22, EN 1634-1/2/3 or by assessment from accredited bodies such as BM Trada, Warrington Fire, KIWA and others. Locksets may also be CE or UKCA marked to either of the following standards depending on type.
BS EN 12209 specifies the requirements and test methods for durability, strength, security and function of mechanically operated locks and latches while BS EN 14846 governs the standards for electromechanically operated locks and striking plates.
Identifying electromechanical locks
The first seven digits align broadly with those on other building hardware standards to enable meaningful comparisons to be made with related products. The last two are specifically related to electromechanical devices. The fourth digit shows its suitability for use on fire/smoke doors.
Fire/smoke resistance grading
Locks are graded A-F, each with a specific duration that the lock can be used on smoke fire door assemblies. This rating helps you identify the correct fit depending on fire safety requirements.
| Grade | Fire/Smoke Resistance Requirement |
|---|---|
| 0 | No Requirement (not intended for use on fire/smoke doors) |
| A | Suitable for use on smoke door assembly only |
| B | Suitable for use on smoke/fire door assemblies (>15 minutes) |
| C | Suitable for use on smoke/fire door assemblies (>30 minutes) |
| D | Suitable for use on smoke/fire door assemblies (>60 minutes) |
| E | Suitable for use on smoke/fire door assemblies (>90 minutes) |
| F | Suitable for use on smoke/fire door assemblies (>120 minutes) |
Locks are graded A-F, each with a specific duration that the lock can be used on smoke fire door assemblies. This rating helps you identify the correct fit depending on fire safety requirements.
| Digit 1 | Digit 2 | Digit 3 | Digit 4 | Digit 5 | Digit 6 | Digit 7 | Digit 8 | Digit 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category of use | Durability | Door Mass & Closing Force | Suitability for use on fire/smoke doors | Safety | Corrosion resistance | Security | Security electrical function | Security electrical manipulation |
Identifying fire-resistant mechanically operated locks
Very similar to BS EN 14846, the standard BS EN 12209 defines a standard way to declare performance with an eight-digit classification coding. The fourth digit will declare its suitability for use on fire/smoke doors. There are four grades as follows.
| Grade | Fire/smoke resistance requirement |
|---|---|
| 0 | Not verified for use on fire/smoke resisting door assemblies. |
| A | For use on smoke control doorset assemblies based on a test in accordance with EN 1634-3 where the lock contributes to the integrity of the doorset. |
| B | For use on smoke control and fire resisting doorset assemblies based on a test in accordance with EN 1634-1 EN 1634-2 where the lock contributes to the integrity of the doorset i.e. latch is used to keep the door in a closed position. |
| C | For use on smoke control and fire resisting doorset assemblies based on tests where the lock does not contribute to keeping the doorset in a closed position during the fire resisting and/or smoke control test. |
| Digit 1 | Digit 2 | Digit 3 | Digit 4 | Digit 5 | Digit 6 | Digit 7 | Digit 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category of use | Durability | Door mass and closing force | Suitability for use in fire door | Safety | Corrosion resistance and temperature requirement | Security and drill resistance | Field of door application |
In both above lock types, there are minimum ‘marking’ requirements for the product and it will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. The classification may be visible after installation but could require you to remove the lock to establish its classification.
Considerations with retrofitting locks
Retrofitting locks on fire doors comes with a set of considerations that must be addressed. Reviewing the certification documents for the fire door is essential to understand the scope and field of application for the locks and latches. Typically, you won't be limited to a specific size or type of lock.
When retrofitting locks, several factors must be considered:
- Review certification documents to understand lock and latch scope.
- Ensure compliance with Certifire-approved lock/latch specifications.
- Match existing lock dimensions and materials for seamless integration.
- Comply with intumescent protection requirements for fire safety standards.
- Address any voids left by the removal of original locks to maintain structural integrity.
Challenges with retrofitting locks
Retrofitting locks can present challenges such as:
- Incompatibility of fitting templates and lock mortices/back sets, requiring adjustment or replacement.
- Introduction of additional electrical wiring with electromechanical locks, necessitating proper installation to avoid compromising fire safety.
- Careful consideration to avoid voiding fire door certification
due to improper retrofitting practices.
When measuring and matching locks to fire door certifications, consider the following example dimensions:
- Forend and strike plate dimensions: 235mm high x 28mm wide x 4mm thick.
- Lock Body dimensions: 165mm high x 100mm wide x 18mm thick.
Other considerations
Intumescent protection requirements should be met using specified products to maintain fire safety standards. Mixing and matching products from different manufacturers is not permitted. All essential locking/latching parts should be made of made of steel, stainless steel or brass with a melting point of ≥ 800°C.
The location of the handle on the fire door should typically be between 800mm - 1200mm from the threshold. Ensure that all intumescent and frame requirements of the Certifire certificate are met or exceeded to maintain compliance. If all the requirements and specifications are met, any Certifire-approved lock/latch within those limits can be fitted, subject to the conditions specified in its own Certifire certificate.
Retrofitting fire-resistant locking systems plays a pivotal role in maintaining building security and safety standards. The process involves recessing locks to ensure a tight fit, accommodating intumescent where necessary. However, several challenges and considerations must be addressed to prevent compromising fire door certification. One of the primary issues encountered during retrofitting is the discrepancy between the new lock/latch and existing certification requirements.
Test, field of application and certification documents must be meticulously followed to avoid potential pitfalls. The transition from one lock type to another often reveals voids that are only noticeable through intrusive inspections. Incompatibilities arise in fitting templates between manufacturers, lock mortices/back sets and the introduction of additional electrical wiring and components when switching to electromechanical locks.
The importance of retrofitting fire resistant locks
Understanding the implications of retrofitting fire-resistant locking systems is paramount to upholding the integrity of fire doors. Compliance with certification requirements and ensuring compatibility with existing door specifications are crucial steps to mitigate risks and adhere to safety standards.
Building owners and stakeholders must be aware of these key considerations to navigate the complexities of retrofitting effectively.
In conclusion, retrofitting fire-resistant locking systems is a critical component of building maintenance and security enhancement. As buildings and security demands evolve, it is essential to ensure that locking systems adhere to stringent fire safety standards while providing robust access control. By aligning with certification requirements, selecting suitable fire-resistant locks and addressing retrofitting challenges, building owners can safeguard the integrity of fire doors and uphold safety protocols.
To ensure a seamless retrofitting process and prevent compromise on fire door certification, it is advisable to adhere to proper installation practices and seek guidance from qualified professionals. With proactive measures and careful planning, retrofitting locking systems can significantly enhance security and safety within buildings.
