Quick Code Q&A: Securing Exterior Spaces

Continuing the discussion on panic hardware, last month's blog focused on locations where a key-operated lock could be used as an alternative.

Along the same lines as my previous post, balconies, courtyards and roof terraces may create a conflict between safe egress and security if they include an egress route that leads through the interior of the adjacent building and out through its exits. However, an exception in the 2021 edition of the International Building Code (IBC) allows these doors to be secured if certain criteria are met.

Question: How can an exterior space—like a courtyard or roof terrace—be secured to prevent unauthorized access to the building?

Prior to the 2021 edition of the IBC, exterior spaces that included an egress route through a building's interior were governed by the same codes as interior rooms. When these doors were equipped with code-compliant hardware allowing free egress from the exterior space through the building, security was often an issue. Designers would have to request a modification from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to allow the doors to be lockable. But the 2021 edition of the code includes an exception that allows "an approved locking device" on exit access doors serving exterior spaces if specific criteria are met.

This exception does not apply to egress courts, which provide access to a public way for one or more exits. Further, this exception only applies in locations where the jurisdiction has adopted the 2021 edition of the IBC. Otherwise, specifiers would have to consult the AHJ for a code modification.

But what are these criteria, and how can glaziers help designers plan code-compliant and secure exterior spaces?

Eligibility Requirements

First, the calculated occupant load of the exterior space must not exceed 300 people. This maximum occupant load must be posted on a permanent sign in a conspicuous location near the exit access door for assembly spaces.

A weatherproof telephone or two-way communication system must be located adjacent to at least one exit access door on the exterior side. This device must meet additional requirements as listed in the IBC.

Each exit access door serving the exterior space must have a clear vision panel measuring no less than five square feet that meets accessibility standards.

Just as in the exception for main entrance doors and tenant spaces, the approved locking device must be key operated (typically a double-cylinder deadbolt) and readily distinguishable as locked. These exit access doors also require signage that states, "THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THE OUTDOOR AREA IS OCCUPIED."

If the exit access doors and hardware meet all requirements, the full assembly would be an acceptable alternative to panic hardware in jurisdictions where the 2021 IBC is the adopted code.

How This Affects Glaziers

Prior to the 2021 edition of the IBC, doors serving exterior spaces were not allowed to be locked in the direction of egress (into the building). This could allow unauthorized people to enter the building if they could access the courtyard or roof terrace.

When code modifications were allowed by the AHJs to secure these openings, they were often inconsistent. The new section included in the 2021 IBC offers a way to help ensure security without compromising life safety. As such, it creates a higher level of standardization for door and glazing installation in these locations.

If you have a code-related question you would like answered, please send it to [email protected].