Electrically Controlled Exit Systems
Standard: EN 13637:2015
Standard Information
- Standard Number: EN 13637:2015
- Title: Building hardware - Electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes - Requirements and test methods
- Status: Current
- Application: Electrically controlled emergency exit systems
Scope and Application
EN 13637:2015 applies to electrically controlled exit systems that:
- Are used on escape routes
- Are electrically controlled
- Can be operated manually in case of power failure
- Are suitable for use in normal ambient temperatures
- Are commonly used in commercial and public buildings
- Integrate with access control systems
Classification System
The standard defines several classification categories:
- Type: Push pad (P) or Lever handle (L)
- Category: Single action (SA) or Double action (DA)
- Durability: Grade 1 (10,000 cycles) or Grade 2 (50,000 cycles)
- Corrosion resistance: Class 0 (no requirement) to Class 5 (highest)
- Fire resistance: Fire resistant (FR) or Non-fire resistant (NFR)
- Power supply: Mains powered (MP) or Battery powered (BP)
- Backup power: With backup (WB) or Without backup (NB)
Performance Requirements
Devices must meet specific criteria for:
- Operating force requirements (maximum 70N)
- Operating movement (maximum 30mm)
- Durability cycles
- Corrosion resistance
- Fire resistance (if applicable)
- Mechanical strength
- Safety requirements
- Electrical safety
- Power failure handling
- Backup power performance
- Access control integration
Testing Requirements
Testing procedures include:
- Initial type testing (ITT)
- Factory production control (FPC)
- Durability testing
- Corrosion resistance testing
- Fire resistance testing (if applicable)
- Mechanical strength testing
- Safety testing
- Electrical safety testing
- Power failure testing
- Backup power testing
- Access control integration testing
Installation Requirements
Critical installation factors include:
- Proper mounting height (900-1100mm from floor)
- Correct alignment
- Appropriate fixing methods
- Clear signage requirements
- Maintenance access
- Emergency lighting integration
- Accessibility requirements
- Power supply requirements
- Backup power installation
- Access control system integration
Maintenance Guidelines
Regular maintenance should include:
- Visual inspection
- Operational testing
- Lubrication of moving parts
- Check of fixing points
- Verification of signage
- Emergency lighting check
- Accessibility verification
- Power supply testing
- Backup power testing
- Access control system testing
Application Guidelines
Recommended applications by building type:
- Office Buildings: Grade 2, Class 3 corrosion resistance, Mains powered with backup
- Retail Spaces: Grade 2, Class 4 corrosion resistance, Mains powered with backup
- Healthcare Facilities: Grade 2, Class 4 corrosion resistance, Mains powered with backup, FR
- Educational Buildings: Grade 2, Class 4 corrosion resistance, Mains powered with backup
- Industrial Facilities: Grade 2, Class 5 corrosion resistance, Mains powered with backup
Safety Considerations
- Clear emergency exit signage
- Unobstructed access
- Regular evacuation drills
- Staff training requirements
- Emergency lighting integration
- Maintenance records
- Accessibility compliance
- Power failure procedures
- Backup power maintenance
- Access control system security
Important Considerations:
- Select appropriate grade and class for intended use
- Consider environmental conditions
- Verify certification documentation
- Ensure proper installation
- Maintain regular inspection schedule
- Follow manufacturer maintenance guidelines
- Keep records of all maintenance activities
- Consider accessibility requirements
- Plan for power failure scenarios
- Implement backup power procedures
- Ensure access control system reliability