![]() Although this standard does not usually apply to low-energy operators, it does apply to low-energy operators that are not initiated by a knowing act. If the safety sensor is not functioning, the door is not supposed to open. Monitored Sensors: A change was made to the 2017 edition of BHMA A156.10, which requires safety sensors to be monitored.Touchless Switches: Actuators that can be operated by the wave of a hand are considered a knowing act by A156.19, but the detection range (the distance from the waving hand to the switch) should be no more than 12 inches.The standard includes recommended locations for actuators. Actuators: In order to comply with BHMA A156.19, low-energy operators must be initiated by a “knowing act.” The knowing-act method may be a push plate actuator or non-contact switch mounted on the wall or jamb, the act of manually pushing or pulling a door, a wireless transmitter, or an access control device like a card reader, keypad, or keyswitch.Therefore, an automatic operator with standby power should not be used on a fire door to overcome maneuvering clearance problems because the operator will not be functional when the fire alarm is sounding. Automatic operators on fire-rated doors are required to be deactivated upon fire alarm. However, if a door does not have the required clearance on the egress side, and an automatic operator is added to bring the door into compliance, the automatic operator must have stand-by power so it will function in an emergency. Stand-By Power: Doors with automatic operators are not subject to the same maneuvering-clearance requirements as manually-operated doors.Currently, the codes and standards do not mandate auto operators, although they are sometimes installed to overcome a code issue such as limited maneuvering clearance, or opening force that exceeds the maximum allowed by code. Public Entrances: Changes have been approved for the 2021 IBC that will require automatic operators at some public entrances.Each heading title is a link to more information. Summaries and Links: The following summaries address requirements pertaining to automatic doors. NFPA 80 – Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives. ![]() ICC A117.1 – Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.BHMA A156.10 – Power Operated Pedestrian Doors.BHMA A156.19 – Power Assist & Low Energy Power Operated Doors.The ADA standards can be downloaded from ADA.gov. If you are an Allegion employee, these documents can be downloaded from our Techstreet subscription ( contact me if you need help). ![]() Referenced Codes and Standards: The codes and standards listed here include requirements related to automatic operators and are referenced in some of the summaries and articles below. I’ve compiled the list below to help summarize the requirements, with links to longer articles and more information. With the current focus on how to limit the spread of germs, many facility managers are considering the addition of automatic operators so doors can be operated “hands-free.” I’ve been receiving lots of questions about touchless switches, remote transmitters, and codes related to auto operators in general.
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