Fire Rated Doors and power assisted accessible doors

[Builder Bob]

We have a rather unusual circumstance where renovations are being performed...... the 20% rule applies --- the funny thing is that the space already meets or exceeds ADA requirements for clear floor space, grab bars, etc.... this was done in the last remodel for the building in the restroom.

Well you guessed it, we have not other accessible upgrade possible except for making the restroom doors accessible. Unfortunately, it is technically infeasible to enlarge the restroom alcove to allow 12" on the pull side of the door (fire rated corridor), they enclosed it in the last remodel --- with the understanding that the doors would be modified to provide accessibility by the previous tenant in the next upfit.... well, here we are - another customer, another project, no past history known until we submit construction documents, received permits to do job, and on an inspection - be told the existing door way did not meet accessibility and now must be altered to provide accessibility.

Without making the project three times more expensive - older masonry building which means if we tear down walls to enlarge restroom alcove, we have to structurally reinforce the walls and foundation to make the walls meet seismic requirements - It was suggested to investigate the power assist buttons for accessible doorway entry....... more affordable than tear down and rebuild of walls, ... the problem- how do you make these openers interact with the latching requirements of NFPA for fire rated opening protective for a corridor.

BTW, the AHJ will not back down and use the technical infeasible... Long history with owner of building and AHJ - just new tenant being backed into a corner and we are trying to figure out how to resolve this issue the most economically way.

 

[TheCommish]

power door operators with electric hardware to latch the door when fire alarm sounds

 

[cda]

Fire sprinkler in Building??

 

[steveray]

Fire sprinkler in Building??

Rated corridor goes away with sprinklers?...Sounds like a job for Lori if you can't get around the rating...

 

[JPohling]

You can derate the corridors only if the existing sprinkler system is up to current code, so it is not always achievable. Perfect opportunity for an automatic door operator tied to electric lockset or latch

 

[LGreene]

Interfacing the auto operators with the latching hardware isn't too difficult...you just need a fail secure electric strike that is listed for use on a fire door assembly. If it's a single bathroom, there is a module that you can add which coordinates the lock and the automatic operator so the exterior push button doesn't open the door when someone is in the bathroom. The electric strike model will depend on the latching hardware on the door. If you need help with specific model numbers, you can send me some photos of the door. lori.greene@allegion.com.