DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) has released a new Best Practice Guide covering the British Standard for Mechanically Operated Push-Button Locksets (BS 8607:2014 + A1:2016). The Standard sets out the requirements and test methods for durability, strength and also functionality.
“The objective of this British Standard is to provide a classification for Mechanically Operated Push-button Locksets,” explains DHF’s CEO, Bob Perry. “These products are generally used as a means of convenience, but they are now also used on fire doors and perimeter doors and the standard is available to give specifiers guidance on the performance of these types of products. Locksets should not only have acceptable documentary evidence to demonstrate that they are fit-for-purpose on any smoke and/or fire-resisting doors for which they are intended but must be correctly installed. This is essential in ensuring that they are able to operate efficiently within the performance levels described in the Standard.”
Classification of the Mechanically Operated Push-Button locksets is in five grades. Products tested to BS 8607 incorporate specific performance grades from BS EN 12209 for mechanically operated locks, latches and locking plates, and also requirements of BS EN 1906, BS 3621, PAS 24 and for the overriding cylinder, where applicable, BS EN 1303. A BSI Kitemark certification scheme is available for products achieving grade 5.
The British Standard includes requirements for locksets intended for use on fire-resisting and smoke control doors but does not specify requirements for locksets intended for use on final exit doors on escape routes, which are covered in BS EN 179:2008. The standard also will test the performance of the lever/knobs as well as the durability of keypads.
Bob Perry continues: “We have simplified this standard for our members, with the Best Practice Guide providing practical help for all those involved with Mechanically Operated Push-button Locksets and offering clear guidance on safety, compliance and the standards that they should be adhering to.”
This latest Best Practice Guide is one of a series from DHF addressing the major issues that should be considered when specifying, ordering or using the products it describes. The new guide and others can be downloaded here.
