People are priority in the (fire) safety of buildings. To ensure that they can escape safely and quickly in the event of a fire or other emergency, our laws and regulations define escape routes for buildings. The doors in these escape routes are called escape doors and must be able to be opened with one light push. To make this possible, GU Netherlands offers an extensive range of locks, panic bars and hardware. In addition, the market leader in window and door technology supports in the selection of the right products.
Since 2003, our laws and regulations have distinguished between public buildings (EN 1125) and limited-access buildings such as apartment buildings, blocks of apartments and offices, where escape routes are known (EN 179). An escape door according to EN 1125 must be equipped with a horizontal push bar or push bar, while escape doors according to EN 179 may also have an anti-panic push pad or anti-panic handle set, whether or not in combination with a push-in anti-panic lock or multi-point lock. EN 13637 is an additional standard and applies to electrically controlled escape doors.
"The implementation of the aforementioned laws and regulations often ends up on the architect's plate," notes Joep Breukels, Managing Director of GU Netherlands and Belgium. "A dangerous decision, because many architects and consultants do not (yet) know which doors have to meet which requirements. Especially when the doors perform multiple functions. To overcome any safety risks in this area, we are happy to offer a helping hand. For example, by supporting the architect in his design."
"With the aesthetic issue as a foundation, we are happy to work out the escape plan and specifications," Breukels said. "In doing so, we not only clarify which doors should be designed as escape doors, but also which products are suitable for this purpose. From mechanical and self-locking to motorized and crank-operated locks. In addition, we offer an extensive range of high-quality and EN 179/EN 1125 certified door fittings, push bars and push-bars. Depending on the functionality of the door, we can supply the total package, including cylinders, door closers, e-fittings and so on. In short: everything needed to enable fast and safe escape in buildings. If required, we also include the hardware for the 'normal' doors in this process, to create one aesthetic whole. All our products are fully certified."
Wondering what GU Netherlands can do for your projects? Please contact your GU advisor without obligation.