Automatic Flush Bolt

[jar546]

2024 IBC definition:

AUTOMATIC FLUSH BOLT. Door-locking hardware, installed on the inactive leaf of a pair of doors, which has a bolt that is extended automatically into the door frame or floor when the active leaf is closed after the inactive leaf, and which holds the inactive leaf in a closed position. When the active leaf is opened, the automatic flush bolt retracts the bolt or rod allowing the inactive leaf to be opened (see CONSTANT LATCHING BOLT, DEAD BOLT, MANUAL BOLT).

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

They've added this to the 2024 IBC? GREAT! The requirements prohibiting manually-operated bolts on inactive leafs of double doors have been there for years, yet I often receive plans for new buildings that call for them. This definition works with the code section we already have.

And, of course, I am met with wailing and gnashing of teeth when I tell them they need to use either automatic flush bolts or panic hardware. AND that the inactive leaf can't have any other hardware on it (no push bars or door pulls).

IBC 2021 section 1010.2.4, #4:

4. Where egress doors are used in pairs, approved
automatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be
used, provided that the door leaf having the automatic
flush bolts does not have a doorknob or
surface-mounted hardware.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

And, because I'm anal retentive and obsessive-compulsive, I also tell them that if the inactive leaf is secured with flush bolts (automatic or otherwise), the exit sign has to be center over the active leaf.

 

[steveray]

And, because I'm anal retentive and obsessive-compulsive, I also tell them that if the inactive leaf is secured with flush bolts (automatic or otherwise), the exit sign has to be center over the active leaf.

I know they were adding within 5' of the door for signs which will likely cause more problems than it solves....