Abloy UK amends BS 7273: Pt4

Abloy UK is showing full support for the recent amendment by the British Standards Institution to BS 7273: Pt4 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures – Part 4: Actuation of release mechanisms for doors, to enhance security and provide safer means of controlling the unauthorised use of escape doors.

The amendment features an expert commentary that will accompany the standard so that it will now directly refer to ‘BS EN 13637 Building hardware – Electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes’ in respect of any electrically locked door on an escape route.

BS 7273 pt4:2015 covers the operation and release of electronically controlled escape doors, setting out recommendations for the specification, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of the electrical control arrangements to actuate mechanisms that unlock, release or open doors in the event of a fire.

The new expert commentary introduces a safe means of securing escape doors against unauthorised use, whether for general access control management such as read-in and read-out control or to improve security to prevent theft or terrorism etc.

A BS EN 13637 Exit system will achieve a best practice, safe and compliant solution in respect of current building regulations, without impeding the building occupant’s ability to escape in a real emergency.

The use of an EN 13637 Exit system provides full compliance with building regulations with a solution that is designed specifically for the purposes of electrically controlling an escape door, with state-of-the-art equipment with the durability of the ability to release proven, which satisfies the requirements to prove materials are fit for purpose and designed for the application.

Building owners must ensure their building is safe for all occupants, at all times, this means ensuring that all occupants can safely escape, and that the integrity of the fire compartmentation is maintained within the building.

The BS EN 13637 performance standard for an Escape Door System (EDS) ensures performance testing of the whole system and the individual components and consists of the electric locking device, the actuation element (push button, emergency release or touch bar etc.), and the system’s control element.

An EDS system incorporates self-monitoring to ensure no fault or component failure could keep the door locked. The EDS controller manages all integrated inputs from 3rd party systems such as access control and ensures that the default status is always to fail unlocked.

All system components must have been tested together and be compatible as a complete solution, installed following the manufacturer’s instructions. Substitutions are only permitted for any components if they fall under the scope of the initial testing.

The amendment creates a safer solution for electrified doors than the traditional Green Emergency Break glass type solution we have been used to, overcoming many of the issues that have previously resulted in a failure to release the door.

Roy Buckingham DipGAI, Regional Specification Development Manager for London & South East at Abloy UK, comments: “We wholeheartedly support the decision by the BSI to make this amendment to BS 7273:pt 4.

“The modification of BS7273 is a positive step forward in improving buildings safety. Previously, the standard was in conflict, and that caused confusion throughout the industry.

“The standard now aligns with BS EN 13637, which is a more complete solution for electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes. This is a fundamental change to the industry, and Abloy UK is available as trusted advisor on this and all other issues of access control compliance.”

Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here.

Never miss a story… Follow us on:
Security Buyer
 @SecurityBuyer
 @Secbuyer

Media Contact
Rebecca Morpeth Spayne,
Editor, Security Portfolio
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
Email: [email protected]

About Security Buyer

Security Buyer is the leading authority in global security content, delivering expert news, in-depth articles, exclusive interviews, and industry insights across print, digital, and event platforms. Published 10 times a year, the magazine is a trusted resource for professionals seeking updates and analysis on the latest developments in the security sector.

To submit an article, or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact our team below.

Rebecca Spayne picture 2025

Rebecca Spayne

Managing
EDITOR

Georgina Turner image

Georgina Turner

Sales
Manager

Afua Akoto image - Security Buyer

Afua Akoto

Marketing Manager

Read the Latest Issue

Follow us on X

Follow us on X

Click Here

Follow us on LinkedIn

Follow us on LinkedIn

Click Here

Advertise here

Reach decision makers and amplify your marketing

Advertise here

Click Here

Related News

OneLink

Product Spotlight – Gallagher’s OneLink

Gallagher Security presents, OneLink – the product that is elevating remote security through the power of the cloud 
Pinaccle systems

Pinnacle Systems further supports Installers and System Integrators

Pinnacle Systems has launched the Pinnacle Partner Programme, a new initiative designed to provide enhanced support for installers…
Stephen Tickle

Comelit-PAC Appoints Stephen Tickle as Regional Sales Manager

Comelit-PAC has appointed Stephen Tickle as its new Regional Sales Manager.  Stephen will focus on supporting PAC’s access control…
Intersec Saudi

Intersec Saudi Arabia returns with record exhibition space

Intersec Saudi Arabia, the premier industry platform for security, safety and fire protection, will return to the Riyadh…
Abloy UK

Abloy Academy breaks attendance records

Abloy UK has achieved record breaking attendance at its Academy, with more professionals than ever attending its…
Hikvision

Hikvision Introduces X-ray Baggage Inspection System

Hikvision India has recently introduced X-ray Baggage Inspection System with AI- enabled Intelligent Recognition Capabilities…
GBV

IFPO Column: The Quiet Signals of Danger

Yoyo Hamblen of IFPO and Gary Simpson, Nonverbal and Behavioural specialist discuss the important topic of Gender-Based Violence..
Doorbird Carousel

Product Spotlight – Door Communication for the “Neue Wallufer”

 A customised solution case study for a residential complex is presented by DoorBird and CompuNet Systems GmbH 
suprema

Suprema Achieves EN 60839 Certification

Suprema, a global provider of AI-powered access control and security solutions, has achieved EN 60839-11-1:2013 Grade 3 certification
ASSA ABLOY

Electric locks are a vital component in digital access

To protect the important openings in their buildings, organizations need locks they can trust. This means more than just strength…
Scroll to Top