Guide to BS EN 179:2008 Digit 10

Guide to BS EN 179:2008

BS EN 179 – Emergency exit devices
This standard covers devices to be used in emergency situations where people are familiar with the emergency exit and its hardware. Because of this, a panic situation is most unlikely to develop. Devices operated by a lever handle or push pad may therefore be used.

SCOPE – BS EN 179
The main purpose of the performance requirements of this standard is to give safe and effective escape through a doorway with one single operation to release the device. However, escape can require prior knowledge of the operation of the device. This is consequently considered suitable for locked doors on escape routes only where panic situations are not foreseen.

 

DIGIT 10 - Field of application

Category A: outwardly opening single exit door, double exit door; active or inactive leaf.
Category B: outwardly opening single exit door only.
Category C: outwardly opening double exit door, inactive leaf only.
Category D: inwardly opening single exit door only.

Certain emergency exit devices are restricted to particular doors within this broad characterisation. Refer to installation instructions for specific application.