Emergency exit: Regulations in Quebec

Did you know that all emergency exits in public buildings must comply with the same regulations to ensure the safety of occupants? In Quebec, the safety of emergency exits is crucial for theaters, shopping malls, businesses, and other establishments open to the public.

Discover in this article why emergency exits must respect the standards in force, what are the rules to follow in Quebec, and what are the types of installations the most reliable for a foolproof emergency exit!

Emergency exits: respecting regulations is not an option

The safety of occupants of any type of building is a priority and every detail must be taken into account. Emergency exits are vital during critical situations, such as in the event of a fire or alarm. Whether in a theater, movie theater, shopping center or office building, well-placed and accessible exits can literally save lives.

Emergency exit: what are the regulations in Quebec?

To guarantee effective evacuation, all Quebec buildings must comply with strict construction standards, including for emergency exits. Regulations in Quebec stipulate that exit doors must open easily, without requiring a key or special device. In the event of an emergency, occupants must be able to evacuate quickly and safely.

What types of handles should be installed on emergency exits?

Emergency exits complying with current regulations mainly use two types of installation: panic bars, which allow quick opening by simple pressure, and emergency closures, which guarantee easy evacuation with reliable mechanisms when necessary.

Anti-Panic Bar: What do the regulations say?

The panic bar is a smart and practical choice in an emergency. In accordance with Quebec standards, panic bars must comply with NF EN 1125 regulations and undergo rigorous testing to ensure their reliability.

It is used in offices, shopping centers, all types of businesses and multi-unit buildings. For an optimal level of security, the panic bar can be combined with an automatic door opener system.

The different types of panic bars

Panic bars are available with or without an alarm to adapt to the requirements of each building. They can be installed on wooden, metal or steel doors, for maximum flexibility. For a building requiring optimal protection against forced entry, panic bars with alarm will signal any unusual opening attempt.

In Quebec, we can count on renowned brands like Yale, Corbin, Von Duprin, Sargent and Jackson which offer panic bars that comply with regulations, and which are robust and reliable in all circumstances.

How do you recognize a panic bar that complies with regulations?

A panic bar that complies with Quebec regulations must meet certain very specific criteria. First, it must be easy to use for everyone, including children, the elderly or people with reduced mobility. The door must open in the direction of the push and remain accessible even in the dark or in the presence of smoke. The bar must cover at least 60% of the width of the door, must not exceed 2500 mm in height and 1300 mm in width. It must be able to support a maximum weight of 200 kg. Finally, the exit must always remain free and cannot be locked.

Emergency closure

Emergency releases, used in workplaces and apartment buildings, allow occupants to exit quickly by simply pushing on the door. This type of emergency exit lock meets strict quality and efficiency regulations, such as the NF EN 179 standard (a European standard specifying the manufacturing, performance and testing requirements for emergency closures).

The NF EN 179 standard guarantees that emergency exit devices are reliable and easy to use. It requires rigorous testing to ensure their performance in all emergency situations. With reliable and compliant emergency closure, occupant safety is ensured!

Electromagnetic locking mechanisms

Electromagnetic locking mechanisms are commonly used in private seniors’ residences (RPA), apartment buildings, healthcare establishments and monitored areas (detention centers, research laboratories, government or military buildings).

Their operation is simple: a magnet powered by electricity keeps the door locked. In the event of a power outage or activation of the fire alarm, the magnet deactivates and the door unlocks automatically. Electromagnetic locking mechanisms must meet specific requirements, such as those of Amended National Building Code (CNB) of Quebec in order to guarantee optimal safety and flawless compliance with current standards.

Emergency exits must be visible to comply with regulations

To ensure the safety of residents or employees of a building, emergency exits must always be visible and easy to spot. To guarantee rapid and efficient evacuation, they must be clearly identified, free of any obstacle and easy to open without a key or special device.

The Regulation respecting industrial and commercial establishments requires that emergency exits be clear and well lit, and that signage be clear. “EXIT” signs must be placed at intersections and above doors. They must be illuminated at all times and must remain functional for at least 30 minutes after activation of the alarm.

Having emergency exit door locks installed: what price to expect?

You have a business, an office building and you need to have new locks installed for your emergency exit doors so that they comply with regulations?

Price for installing a lock like a panic bar, vary depending on several factors such as the type and complexity of the lock mechanism. For example, a standard panic bar typically costs between $150 and $1,200, depending on the quality and materials used. As for installing an electromagnetic locking mechanism, you should expect to pay between $300 and $500. Additional installation fees may vary depending on the complexity of the system.

For emergency closures, the cost may include additional devices such as alarm systems and security lighting.

A word of advice: always request professional installation to ensure compliance with requirements for door mechanisms and locks, and to test the reliability of the system when needed.

The timing of the intervention also plays a role in establishing the price of installing a lock: evening services, nights or weekends are generally more expensive due to emergency fees.

Finally, the number of locks to install influences the total price. Replacing a single lock will be quick and affordable compared to multiple high security locks in a commercial building.

Need expert advice to check that your emergency exits comply with regulations?

Call in a professional locksmith to guarantee reliable and secure installation, for increased protection of your property and your employees! Contact us to find out more!

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Sources
RÉSEAU QUÉBÉCOIS DES OSBL D’HABITATION. Les sorties de secours dégagées, pour évacuer en toute sécurité! Clear emergency exits for safe evacuation! 2011.
CONSEIL NATIONAL DE RECHERCHES DU CANADA. Code de sécurité du Québec, Chapitre VIII – Bâtiment, et Code national de prévention des incendies – Canada 2010 (modifié). [Quebec Safety Code, Chapter VIII – Building, and National Fire Prevention Code – Canada 2010 (amended).].
M-HABITAT. Serrure barre anti-panique. [Panic bar lock.].
RÉGIE DU BÂTIMENT DU QUÉBEC. Mécanismes de verrouillage électromagnétique. [Electromagnetic locking mechanisms].