CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code
Marking and identification requirements for latches and locks
The code requires every latch and lock to have the maker’s name or trademark visibly and legibly marked after installation; if the maker makes similar models, the lock must also show its model/type on the latch or case.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Referenced Standards Code requires that the manufacturer’s name or trademark be legibly marked on the latch or lock where it can be seen after installation. When a manufacturer makes similar devices, the type, model number, or letter designation that identifies the listed product must also be legibly marked on the latch or case. The marking may be an approved marking or a label on the case. See § 12-10-206 for the controlling text.
The single most important rule: every latch or lock that will remain installed must carry a legible manufacturer identity visible after installation; if the maker makes similar items, it must also carry the model/type identifier.
Requirements in detail
Core obligations (plain-language)
- Marking required: manufacturer name or trademark. § 12-10-206.
- Visibility: marking must be placed where it can be seen after installation (i.e., not only on packaging or removable shipping labels). § 12-10-206.
- Additional identification: if the manufacturer produces similar devices, the type/model/letter designation that identifies the listed product must also be legibly marked on the latch or case. § 12-10-206.
- Permitted form: identification “may be an approved marking or label on the case” — the code allows either permanent marking or an approved label on the case. § 12-10-206.
Decision-relevant dimensions (quick reference)
| Decision dimension | Acceptable values / actions | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| What must be marked | Manufacturer name or trademark (legible) | § 12-10-206 |
| When model/type is required | When the manufacturer produces similar devices — mark type/model/letter designation | § 12-10-206 |
| Where to mark | On the latch or lock in a location visible after installation | § 12-10-206 |
| Permitted marking form | Approved marking or label on the case (label may be acceptable if approved) | § 12-10-206 |
| Related marking rule for different equipment | Operating equipment marking requirements reference (similar marking rule for operators) | § 12-10-104 |
Notes on interpretation
- “Legibly marked” requires readable characters after installation, but the CRSC text does not prescribe a specific font size, contrast, or permanence method in § 12-10-206; the code language simply requires legibility.
- The code permits an approved label on the case; whether a particular removable label qualifies as “approved” depends on the listing/approval or the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). § 12-10-206.
Exceptions & special cases
- The published snippet of § 12-10-206 does not state explicit exceptions (other than the allowance that identification “may be an approved marking or label on the case”). If you need to rely on an exception (for example, for concealed trim or specialty hardware), the CRSC text available to me does not provide targeted exceptions—consult the AHJ or the full listing documentation for the product.
- For other device types (operating equipment, panic hardware, power-operated doors), related marking provisions exist (for example § 12-10-104 for operating equipment). Use those sections where they are the applicable standard.
Common mistakes
- Placing the only identification on removable packaging or a sticker that is removed during installation — the code requires visibility after installation. § 12-10-206.
- Omitting the model/type when the manufacturer makes multiple, visually similar products; this makes field identification and listing verification impossible. § 12-10-206.
- Assuming any label is acceptable — the code allows an approved label; unapproved or easily removed labels may not meet the intent. § 12-10-206.
- Confusing “legible” with “aesthetic” — legibility for inspection (durable contrast/readable characters) is the requirement, not that marking be hidden or decorative. § 12-10-206.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A locksmith installs a mortise lock assembly on an egress door. The manufacturer makes three similar mortise lock models: M-100, M-200, and M-300.
Application of the rule:
- The locksmith must verify the lock carries the manufacturer name or trademark in a location that remains visible after installation (for example: case face visible at the edge of the door or other visible part of the lock). § 12-10-206.
- Because the manufacturer produces similar devices, the installed lock must also show the type/model designation (for example “M-200”) legibly on the latch or case so an inspector can confirm it is the listed M-200 and not M-100 or M-300. § 12-10-206.
- If the lock’s case bears an approved label with the manufacturer name and “M-200” on the case surface that remains after installation, that satisfies the “may be an approved marking or label on the case” allowance. § 12-10-206.
If the installed lock shows only a removable paper sticker on the packaging (no marking on the lock itself after installation), that does not comply with § 12-10-206.
Related provisions
- § 12-10-104 — Marking requirement for operating equipment (similar requirement to mark manufacturer and model on operating equipment).
- § 12-10-200 — Scope for single-point latching/locking devices (context on intended applications and listing).
- § 12-10-202 — Design requirements for latches and locks (operational design requirements that marking supports verification of).
- § 12-10-203 — Construction materials for latch/lock cases and parts (useful when confirming product identity matches listed materials).
- § 12-10-204 — Endurance and performance test procedures (marking assists traceability to tested/listed models).
- § 12-10-205 — Thickness of coatings tests (relevant when confirming listed corrosion-resistance finishes for identified products).
(Each related provision above should be consulted when the marking is used to verify compliance with performance, construction, or listing requirements.)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRSC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text
The latch shall continue to extend the roller throughout the test without any failure. The opening pressure at the end of the test shall not be less than 15 pounds. 3. Installation. Doors utilizing roller latches shall be installed in doors hung in steel frames only. Frame jambs shall be anchored to the floor to prevent spreading of the jambs. In other than concrete fill floors the jambs shall be anchored to a steel sill or steel floor plate extending between the jambs to prevent spreading of the frame. Horizontal bracing shall be provided in the wall in back of the strike.
THICKNESS OF COATINGS TESTS
Sec. 12-10-205. The thickness of cadmium, zinc or bronze plated coatings applied for corrosion resistance may be determined by either of the following methods:
Cross sections of coated samples cut at 90 exposed edges polished and thickness measured with a suitable microscope and scale.
Dropping test of a suitable reagent at a definite rate until coating is penetrated. The thickness is calculated from the known characteristics of the reagent at the observed temperature and time required for the end point to appear.
Thickness testing shall not apply to other processes having equal corrosion resistance; acceptance shall be determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM Method B-117.
MARKING
Sec. 12-10-206. The name of the manufacturer, or trademark by which the manufacturer can be readily identified, shall be legibly marked on the latch or lock where it can be seen after installation. When the manufacturer produces similar devices, the type, model
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 79
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EXITS
number or letter designation identifying the listed product shall be legibly marked on the latch or case. Such identification may be an approved marking or label on the case.
FIGURE 12-10-2.1 — STATIC LOADING FIXTURE
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FIGURE 12-10-2-2—ENDURANCE LIFE TESTING APPARATUS
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 81
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82 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE
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EMERGENCY EXIT AND PANIC HARDWARE
STANDARD 12-10-3
STATE FIRE MARSHAL
SCOPE
Sec. 12-10-300.
(a) Exit door hardware. These requirements and methods of test apply to releasing devices actuated by a crossbar for outwardopening doors intended for use on exit doors.
(b) Fire-exit hardware. Releasing devices intended for use on doors bearing a fire-retardant classification shall also conform to the construction standards and performance tests specified in Fire Door Assembly Tests, SFM 12-7-4, Section 12-7-400.
CRSC § 12-7 High relevance — show source text
Turn the inside knob to retract the latch bolt.
Open the door after the latch bolt is restricted to clear the strike.
Release the knob allowing the latch bolt to return to its extended position by action of its own spring.
After insertion of the latches or locks in the test door the torque in inch-pounds necessary to fully retract the latch bolts shall be recorded. The torque shall be the average recorded for the five latches or locks. Each sample shall be subjected to 800,000 operating cycles as described above. Each latch shall continue to extend itself per cycle 3 above throughout the test. At the end of the endurance test the torque to retract the latch bolts of any four latch bolts shall not exceed two times the initial average torque. If two latches fail to operate successfully at the end of the test or the torque of any four latches exceeds two times the initial average torque, an additional five latches or locks shall be subjected to the endurance test and the torque of any seven latches shall not exceed two times the initial average torque.
(j) Roller latches.
- Fire test. Roller latches shall be installed in a composite test fire door in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and subjected to the fire test as described in SFM 12-7-4, for a period of 30 minutes. The latch shall be adjusted to an opening pressure of 20 pounds applied to the closing edge immediately above the latch. Throughout the test the latch shall require an applied pressure of 20 pounds to open the door.
- Endurance test. Five samples of the roller latch shall be subjected to the endurance test as described in Section 12-10-204 (i). The latch shall continue to extend the roller throughout the test without any failure. The opening pressure at the end of the test shall not be less than 15 pounds.
- Installation. Doors utilizing roller latches shall be installed in doors hung in steel frames only. Frame jambs shall be anchored to the floor to prevent spreading of the jambs. In other than concrete fill floors the jambs shall be anchored to a steel sill or steel floor plate extending between the jambs to prevent spreading of the frame. Horizontal bracing shall be provided in the wall in back of the strike.
THICKNESS OF COATINGS TESTS
Sec. 12-10-205. The thickness of cadmium, zinc or bronze plated coatings applied for corrosion resistance may be determined by either of the following methods:
Cross sections of coated samples cut at 90 exposed edges polished and thickness measured with a suitable microscope and scale.
Dropping test of a suitable reagent at a definite rate until coating is penetrated. The thickness is calculated from the known characteristics of the reagent at the observed temperature and time required for the end point to appear.
Thickness testing shall not apply to other processes having equal corrosion resistance; acceptance shall be determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM Method B-117.
MARKING
Sec. 12-10-206. The name of the manufacturer, or trademark by which the manufacturer can be readily identified, shall be legibly marked on the latch or lock where it can be seen after installation. When the manufacturer produces similar devices, the type, model
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 79
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
EXITS
CRSC § 12-7 High relevance — show source text
(g) Self-releasing knob. The inside knob shall be free at all times. Any locking, stopworks or shut-out mechanism shall not prevent retracting the latch bolt or dead bolt to release the door by turning of the inside knob, or “T” handle, or depressing the inside lever, bar or paddle.
(h) Dead bolt operation. Operation of the inside knob shall retract both latch bolt and dead bolt simultaneously. The opening in the strike shall be of such dimensions that when the flat of the latch bolt is forced against the edge of the latch hole there shall be no pressure against the side of the dead bolt.
(i) Springs. Retraction of the latch bolt and/or dead bolt shall not depend on springs. (j) Backset. Backset shall be not less than 2 [3] / 4 inches (70 mm) or more than 5 inches (127 mm).
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 77
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(k) Throw. Latches shall have a minimum latch throw of [1] / 2 inch (13 mm). Latches intended for use on fire endurance rated doors shall also conform to the requirements of SFM 12-7-4, Section 12-7-400, Fire Door Assembly Tests. (l) Roller latches. Roller latches intended for use on room to corridor doors shall have a minimum projection of [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm) excluding any coating or sound deadening material. Stops or staking shall be provided to provide a minimum projection of 1 / 8 inch (3 mm). Spring design shall be such as will require an opening force of 20 pounds when the roller projects 3 1 / 6 inch (72 mm) in a door and frame with [1] / 8 -inch (3 mm) jamb clearance. Adjustment of the roller projection shall not be possible from the front of face plate.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Sec. 12-10-203.
(a) Cases, interior working parts. Cases, latch or lock enclosures, and interior working parts shall be of brass, bronze, steel, monel, stainless steel or of materials equivalent in mechanical strength to brass or bronze. Cases of mortise locks may be of cast iron.
(b) Latch bolts, strikes. Latch bolts and strikes shall be of brass, bronze, monel, stainless steel or materials equivalent in mechanical strength having corrosion resistance equivalent to brass or bronze.
(c) Corrosion resistance. Cases, enclosures and internal working parts shall have corrosion resistance equivalent to cadmium plating not less than 0.00015 inch (0.004 mm) thick or zinc plating not less than 0.0004 inch (0.01 mm) thick, or processed to give equal corrosion resistance as determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM Method B-117.
(d) Nonmetallic materials. Nonmetallic materials may be used as coatings or for wearing surfaces, rollers and finishes, and antifriction inserts, or for similar purpose if the material otherwise conforms to these requirements.
(e) Springs. Component springs used in the assembly of a latch or lock shall be of material having spring properties equivalent to stainless steel conforming to ASTM A313.67.
ENDURANCE AND PERFORMANCE TEST PROCEDURES
Sec. 12-10-204.
CRSC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 79
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number or letter designation identifying the listed product shall be legibly marked on the latch or case. Such identification may be an approved marking or label on the case.
FIGURE 12-10-2.1 — STATIC LOADING FIXTURE
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FIGURE 12-10-2-2—ENDURANCE LIFE TESTING APPARATUS
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 81
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
82 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
EMERGENCY EXIT AND PANIC HARDWARE
STANDARD 12-10-3
STATE FIRE MARSHAL
SCOPE
Sec. 12-10-300.
(a) Exit door hardware. These requirements and methods of test apply to releasing devices actuated by a crossbar for outwardopening doors intended for use on exit doors.
(b) Fire-exit hardware. Releasing devices intended for use on doors bearing a fire-retardant classification shall also conform to the construction standards and performance tests specified in Fire Door Assembly Tests, SFM 12-7-4, Section 12-7-400.
(c) Listing by approved listing agency. Listing by an approved listing agency shall not be construed as necessarily indicating compliance in all respects with the requirements of these Construction Standards and Performance Tests for Emergency Exit and Panic Hardware. The test report of the listing agency may be filed for review and after evaluation, if it is found to provide evidence of conformance, the releasing device assembly may be recognized for approval and listing.
INSTRUCTIONS
Sec. 12-10-301. Approved installation instructions shall be provided by the manufacturer. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate for obtaining proper and safe installation of the equipment.
DESIGN
Sec. 12-10-302.
(a) Releasing pressure. Exit panic hardware mechanisms shall be designed to release the door latch or latches when pressure not to exceed 15 pounds is applied at any point along the cross-bar perpendicular to the door in the direction of exit travel. The cross-bar shall extend across not less than one-half the width of the door.
(b) Locking device. A locking device employed as part of the mechanism shall not prevent release of the door latch or latches when pressure of not to exceed 15 pounds is applied to the cross-bar in the direction of exit travel.
(c) Dead locking bolt. A dead locking bolt shall not be provided as a part of the mechanism unless it is released and retracted, and does not prevent release of the door latch or latches, or release of the door to swing outward when pressure not to exceed 15 pounds is applied to the cross-bar in the direction of exit travel.
(d) Cross bar. The ends of the cross-bar shall be curved, guarded or otherwise designed to prevent catching on the clothing of persons during egress.
CRSC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text
Except as shown, materials shall be of steel, welded or bolted. The test apparatus may be of alternate design and construction having equivalent or greater rigidity. 2. Endurance test. Apparatus for the endurance test shall consist of frame and test door as shown in Figure 12-10-2-2. An alternate design having equivalent or greater rigidity may be utilized. Alternate designs utilizing components of greater dimensions or greater rigidity may affect details of the approval and listing. 3. Test equipment. Torque wrenches, spring scales, hydraulic or pneumatic pressure scales, or other instruments shall be calibrated in an approved manner. (e) Torque loading test. Each latch or lock shall be installed in a 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44 mm) thick test block in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The test block shall be installed in the static loading test fixture. The torque load shall be applied to the inside door knob or lever. The knob or lever shall be turned or depressed to fully retract the latch bolt or dead bolt before application of the torque load. The applied torque load shall be 300 inch-pounds. After removal of the torque load the latch shall automatically return to its latch position, the dead bolt shall be extended to its locked position.
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Subsequent hand turning of the knob or depressing the lever shall retract the latch or dead bolt. Three representative latches and/or locks shall be tested and there shall be no failures.
(f) Axial load. Each latch or lock shall be installed as described in Section 12-10-204 (e). A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be applied first to the outside knob and then to the inside knob or lever so that the force applied to the knob or lever is in line with the axis of the spindle. The axial load applied alternately to the outside knob and inside knob or lever shall be 500 pounds. Neither knob nor lever shall pull off under the axial load. Three representative latches and/or locks shall be tested and there shall be no failures.
(g) Vertical load test. Each latch or lock shall be installed as described in Section 12-10-204 (e). Each latch or lock shall be subjected to a vertical downward force applied perpendicular to the spindle axis through a sling which shall conform to the knob shape. A vertical downward force of 350 pounds shall be applied first to the outside knob and then to the inside knob or lever. Neither knob nor lever shall break off under the downward force. Three latches or locks shall be tested and there shall be no failures.
(h) Releasing torque test. A latch or lock set shall be installed as described in Section 12-10-204 (e). A hydraulic or pneumatic loading device shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 50 pounds against the latching edge of the test block 3 inches (76 mm) above and in the vertical center of the latch or lock spindle in such a direction that the flat of the latch bolt is forced against the edge of the latch hole in the strike. After not less than 25 unlatchings under the above-prescribed load not more than 30 inch-pounds of torque on the inside knob in either direction or 15 pounds of downward pressure on an inside lever shall be required to retract the latch bolt.
CRSC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text
(e) Fault condition introduced. Under each possible fault condition that affects the power supply with the sliding leaf or leaves retracted one-half the leaf width into its or their pocket(s) each swinging section shall open to the 90-degree position with an applied pressure at the normal location of the push plate not exceeding 40 pounds.
(f) Sliding doors without swing-out section. Power-operated sliding doors which are not provided with a swing-out section may be evaluated for conformance to the mechanical requirements and endurance tests provided in this standard. Power-operated sliding doors which are not provided with a swing-out section shall not be listed for use in locations where required exits are specified in Part 2, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
(g) Activating carpets, safety mats. Activating carpets and safety mats shall conform to Section 12-10-102 (f).
MARKING
Sec. 12-10-104. The name of the manufacturer, or trademark by which the manufacturer can be readily identified, shall be legibly marked on the operating equipment where it can be seen after installation. The type, model number or letter designation identifying the product as a listed device shall be provided on a label attached in a location as indicated in its listing.
2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 75
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76 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE
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SINGLE-POINT LATCHING OR LOCKING DEVICES
STANDARD 12-10-2
STATE FIRE MARSHAL
SCOPE
Sec. 12-10-200.
(a) Builders hardware, exit doors. These design requirements and testing procedures apply to builders hardware, single-point latches and locks, intended for use on required means of egress doors in other than Group R and M Occupancies with an occupant load of 10 or less. It is the intent that devices designed and tested in accordance with these procedures will develop data to enable the State Fire Marshal to determine the suitability of latches and locks on means of egress doors. Alternate designs and materials may be submitted with substantiating test data. If, after evaluation, devices are found to comply with the intent of these procedures, they may also be recognized for approval and listing by the State Fire Marshal.
(b) Fire doors. Builders hardware single-point latches and locks intended for use on doors bearing a fire-retardant classification shall also conform to the construction standards and performance tests specified in Fire Door Assembly Tests, SFM 12-7-4, Section 12-7-400.
(c) Listing by approved listing agency. Listing by an approved listing agency shall not be construed as necessarily indicating compliance in all respects with the requirements of these design requirements and test procedures for single-point latching or locking devices. The test report of the approved listing agency may be filed for review and after evaluation, if it is found to provide evidence of conformance, the single-point latching or locking device may be recognized for approval and listing.
(d) Definitions.
- Inside knob. Inside knob means the knob, lever, bar or paddle on the side of the door which must be turned or depressed to unlatch or unlock the door to permit egress.
- Outside knob. Outside knob means the knob on the corridor side of room to corridor doors, or the knob on the exterior side of a door leading to the exterior.
CRSC § 12-7 High relevance — show source text
(a) Builders hardware, exit doors. These design requirements and testing procedures apply to builders hardware, single-point latches and locks, intended for use on required means of egress doors in other than Group R and M Occupancies with an occupant load of 10 or less. It is the intent that devices designed and tested in accordance with these procedures will develop data to enable the State Fire Marshal to determine the suitability of latches and locks on means of egress doors. Alternate designs and materials may be submitted with substantiating test data. If, after evaluation, devices are found to comply with the intent of these procedures, they may also be recognized for approval and listing by the State Fire Marshal.
(b) Fire doors. Builders hardware single-point latches and locks intended for use on doors bearing a fire-retardant classification shall also conform to the construction standards and performance tests specified in Fire Door Assembly Tests, SFM 12-7-4, Section 12-7-400.
(c) Listing by approved listing agency. Listing by an approved listing agency shall not be construed as necessarily indicating compliance in all respects with the requirements of these design requirements and test procedures for single-point latching or locking devices. The test report of the approved listing agency may be filed for review and after evaluation, if it is found to provide evidence of conformance, the single-point latching or locking device may be recognized for approval and listing.
(d) Definitions.
- Inside knob. Inside knob means the knob, lever, bar or paddle on the side of the door which must be turned or depressed to unlatch or unlock the door to permit egress.
- Outside knob. Outside knob means the knob on the corridor side of room to corridor doors, or the knob on the exterior side of a door leading to the exterior.
INSTRUCTIONS
Sec. 12-10-201. Approved installation instructions shall be provided by the manufacturer. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate to ensure proper and safe installation of the device.
DESIGN
Sec. 12-10-202.
(a) Finish. Builders hardware shall have a smooth finish with no sharp or burred edges. Knobs may be knurled or have an abrasive finish for ease of turning or identification as may be required. Strikes shall be plain with curved lip. Strike and lip extending beyond jamb have rounded corners.
(b) Knob, lever or “T” handle actuated. Single-point latch bolts and/or dead bolts shall be retracted from the strike to release the door by a knob, lever or “T” handle with not to exceed [1] / 4 turn. A thumb piece or thumb turn is not acceptable for this purpose.
CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Sec. 12-10-203.
(a) Cases, interior working parts. Cases, latch or lock enclosures, and interior working parts shall be of brass, bronze, steel, monel, stainless steel or of materials equivalent in mechanical strength to brass or bronze. Cases of mortise locks may be of cast iron.
(b) Latch bolts, strikes. Latch bolts and strikes shall be of brass, bronze, monel, stainless steel or materials equivalent in mechanical strength having corrosion resistance equivalent to brass or bronze.
(c) Corrosion resistance. Cases, enclosures and internal working parts shall have corrosion resistance equivalent to cadmium plating not less than 0.00015 inch (0.004 mm) thick or zinc plating not less than 0.0004 inch (0.01 mm) thick, or processed to give equal corrosion resistance as determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM Method B-117.
(d) Nonmetallic materials. Nonmetallic materials may be used as coatings or for wearing surfaces, rollers and finishes, and antifriction inserts, or for similar purpose if the material otherwise conforms to these requirements.
(e) Springs. Component springs used in the assembly of a latch or lock shall be of material having spring properties equivalent to stainless steel conforming to ASTM A313.67.
ENDURANCE AND PERFORMANCE TEST PROCEDURES
Sec. 12-10-204.
(a) Testing laboratory. Tests shall be conducted at a testing laboratory approved by the State Fire Marshal, or tests shall be conducted by a qualified independent fire protection engineer, acceptable to the State Fire Marshal, in testing facilities acceptable to the State Fire Marshal.
(b) Report. The test report shall include a detailed description of the latch or lock and its intended function; engineering data, shop drawings and photographs; identification of materials as to source, composition, strength and corrosion resistance; the physical or chemical tests including dimensions of parts before and after the endurance tests establishing conformance of materials. The report shall include the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The report shall be verified by the laboratory or fire protection engineer responsible for the conduct of the test. The test report and evidence of listing by an approved listing agency may be provided for the applicable portions of these endurance and performance test procedures. Test reports prepared for other governmental agencies may be utilized to the extent that the test procedures contained herein have been duplicated.
(c) Test latches or locks.
- Samples. Samples of the test latch or lock shall be selected by the testing agency or fire protection engineer at random from the manufacturer’s current production runs. The types tested shall be considered to represent, for purposes of approval and listing, all lock types of a series, except that when there are variations of basic mechanical design and/or materials for mechanical parts, each variation shall be tested for compliance with the minimum performance test procedures.
- Modifications in design or test procedure. Devices involving dead-locking bolts, lever handles, shear pins in the outside know or other variations in design may require modifications in the test procedure in order to simulate the intended inservice conditions. Requests for modifications in the design and test procedures shall be filed for evaluation and approval by the State Fire Marshal before proceeding with the test.
(d) Test equipment.
- Static loading. The static loading apparatus used for the torque loading, axial load, vertical load and releasing torque tests shall consist of frame, test door and test block as detailed in Figure 12-10-2-1. Except as shown, materials shall be of steel, welded or bolted.
CRSC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
@ 16″|—|32″
(287)|25″
(356)|36″
(263)|29″
(345)|21″
(428)|29″
(367)|20″
(484)|—|23″
(471)|—|—| |2 × 12 @ 12″|—|42″
(209)|31″
(263)|—|37″
(253)|27″
(317)|36″
(271)|27″
(358)|17″
(447)|31″
(348)|19″
(462)|—| |2 × 12 @ 8″|—|48″
(136)|45″
(169)|—|48″
(164)|38″
(206)|—|40″
(233)|26″
(294)|36″
(230)|29″
(304)|18″
(379)| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Tabulated values are for clear-span roof supported solely by exterior bearing walls.
b. Spans are based on No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir-larch, Southern pine, hem-fir and spruce-pine-fir for repetitive (three or more) members.
c. Ratio of backspan to cantilever span shall be not less than 3:1.
d. Connections capable of resisting the indicated uplift force shall be provided at the backspan support.
e. Uplift force is for a backspan to cantilever span ratio of 3:1. Tabulated uplift values are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by a factor equal to 3 divided by the actual
backspan ratio provided (3/backspan ratio).
f. See Section R301.2.2.6, Item 1, for additional limitations on cantilevered floor joists for detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design Category D0, D1 or D2 and
townhouses in Seismic Design Category C, D0, D1 or D2.
g. Linear interpolation shall be permitted for building widths and ground snow loads other than shown.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Tabulated values are for clear-span roof supported solely by exterior bearing walls.
b. Spans are based on No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir-larch, Southern pine, hem-fir and spruce-pine-fir for repetitive (three or more) members.
c. Ratio of backspan to cantilever span shall be not less than 3:1.
d. Connections capable of resisting the indicated uplift force shall be provided at the backspan support.
e. Uplift force is for a backspan to cantilever span ratio of 3:1. Tabulated uplift values are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by a factor equal to 3 divided by the actual
backspan ratio provided (3/backspan ratio).
f.CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
(g) Vertical load test. Each latch or lock shall be installed as described in Section 12-10-204 (e). Each latch or lock shall be subjected to a vertical downward force applied perpendicular to the spindle axis through a sling which shall conform to the knob shape. A vertical downward force of 350 pounds shall be applied first to the outside knob and then to the inside knob or lever. Neither knob nor lever shall break off under the downward force. Three latches or locks shall be tested and there shall be no failures.
(h) Releasing torque test. A latch or lock set shall be installed as described in Section 12-10-204 (e). A hydraulic or pneumatic loading device shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 50 pounds against the latching edge of the test block 3 inches (76 mm) above and in the vertical center of the latch or lock spindle in such a direction that the flat of the latch bolt is forced against the edge of the latch hole in the strike. After not less than 25 unlatchings under the above-prescribed load not more than 30 inch-pounds of torque on the inside knob in either direction or 15 pounds of downward pressure on an inside lever shall be required to retract the latch bolt. After 100,000 cycles of the endurance test as described in Section 12-10-204 (i), the torque or downward pressure necessary to retract the latch bolt shall not exceed the above-prescribed limits.
(i) Endurance test. Five latches or locks shall be subjected to an accelerated endurance test as provided in this subsection. The locks shall be installed in the door of the endurance testing apparatus in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The latch or lock shall be operated to retract the latch, open the door, and close the door at a rate of approximately 10 cycles per minute. A cycle shall consist of the following:
Turn the inside knob to retract the latch bolt.
Open the door after the latch bolt is restricted to clear the strike.
Release the knob allowing the latch bolt to return to its extended position by action of its own spring.
After insertion of the latches or locks in the test door the torque in inch-pounds necessary to fully retract the latch bolts shall be recorded. The torque shall be the average recorded for the five latches or locks. Each sample shall be subjected to 800,000 operating cycles as described above. Each latch shall continue to extend itself per cycle 3 above throughout the test. At the end of the endurance test the torque to retract the latch bolts of any four latch bolts shall not exceed two times the initial average torque. If two latches fail to operate successfully at the end of the test or the torque of any four latches exceeds two times the initial average torque, an additional five latches or locks shall be subjected to the endurance test and the torque of any seven latches shall not exceed two times the initial average torque.
(j) Roller latches.
- Fire test. Roller latches shall be installed in a composite test fire door in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and subjected to the fire test as described in SFM 12-7-4, for a period of 30 minutes. The latch shall be adjusted to an opening pressure of 20 pounds applied to the closing edge immediately above the latch. Throughout the test the latch shall require an applied pressure of 20 pounds to open the door.
- Endurance test. Five samples of the roller latch shall be subjected to the endurance test as described in Section 12-10-204 (i).
CRSC § 1010.2 Medium relevance — show source text
1010.2 Door operations. Except as specifically permitted by this section, egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
1010.2.1 Unlatching. The unlatching of any door or leaf for egress shall require not more than one motion in a single linear or rotational direction to release all latching and all locking devices. Manual bolts are not permitted.
Exceptions:
Places of detention or restraint.
Doors with manual bolts, automatic flush bolts and constant latching bolts as permitted by Section 1010.2.4, Item 4.
Doors from individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R occupancies as permitted by Section 1010.2.4, Item 5.
1010.2.2 Hardware. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices on doors required to be accessible by Chapter 11A or 11B shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate.
These design requirements for door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices, intended for use on required means of egress doors in other than Group R and M occupancies with an occupant load of 10 or less, shall comply with SFM Standard 12-10-2, Section 12-10-202 contained in the CCR, Title 24, Part 12, California Referenced Standards Code.
1010.2.3 Hardware height. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor.
Exceptions:
- Locks used only for security purposes and not used for normal operation are permitted at any height.
- Where the California Building Code requires restricting access to a pool, spa or hot tub, and where door and gate latch release mechanisms are accessed from the outside of the barrier and are not of the self-locking type, such a mechanism shall be located above the finished floor or ground surface not less than 52 inches (1219 mm) and not greater than 54 inches (1370 mm), provided that the latch release mechanism is not a self-locking type such as where the lock is operated by means of a key, electronic opener or the entry of a combination into an integral combination lock.
1010.2.4 Locks and latches. Locks and latches shall be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of the following exist:
Places of detention or restraint.
In Group I-2 and R-2.1 occupancies where the clinical needs of persons receiving care require containment or where persons receiving care pose a security threat, provided that all clinical staff can readily unlock doors at all times, and all such locks are keyed to keys carried by all clinical staff at all times or all clinical staff have the codes or other means necessary to operate the locks at all times.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-21
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
MEANS OF EGRESS
- In buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant load of 300 or less, Groups B, F, M and S, and in places of religious worship, the main door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided that: 3.1.
CRSC § 104.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The building official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the building official.
[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the building official is authorized to determine compliance with this code, to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.
[A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.
[A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or specialty organization acceptable to the building official. The building official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
[A] 104.2.2.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
[A] 104.2.2.4 Tests. Where there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, the building official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized test standards, the building official shall approve the testing procedures. Such tests shall be performed by a party acceptable to the building official.
[A] 104.2.3 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved.
Exception: Performance-based alternative materials, designs or methods of construction and equipment complying with the International Code Council Performance Code . This exception shall not apply to alternative structural materials or to alternative structural designs. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The International Code Council Performance Code is not permitted by DSA.
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC & OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Alternative system shall satisfy ASCE 7 Section 1.3, unless more restrictive require- ments are established by this code for an equivalent system.
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Alternative systems shall also satisfy the California Administrative Code, Section 4-304.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for ensuring the marking is present and legible?
The manufacturer is responsible for providing the marking; the installer and the AHJ are responsible for ensuring the marking remains on the latch/lock and is legible after installation, per § 12-10-206.
Is a removable sticker allowed if it’s applied on site?
Only an approved label on the case is permitted by the code text; readily removable stickers that do not remain legible after installation are not an adequate substitute for a permanent or approved marking. § 12-10-206.
If a lock is painted in the field, does that violate the marking requirement?
The CRSC requires the marking be legible after installation but does not prescribe finish practices; if field painting covers or obscures the required marking so it is no longer legible, that would fail the marking requirement. § 12-10-206.
Where can I find guidance about acceptable “approved” labels?
The code text allows an “approved marking or label” but does not define every approval path in § 12-10-206; consult the product listing documentation, the AHJ, or the listing agency for what constitutes an approved label. § 12-10-206.
If a product is listed by a third-party lab, is the lab mark sufficient?
Listing marks often supplement manufacturer marking, but the CRSC explicitly requires the manufacturer name/trademark and (when applicable) type/model be legibly marked on the latch or case; third‑party listing marks may assist but do not replace the manufacturer/model identification required by § 12-10-206.
More in California Referenced Standards Code
- Administration and scope — CRSC Chapter 12 overview
- Air filter standards (Chapter 12‑71)
- Building and facility access / accessibility standards (Chapters 12‑11A, 12‑11B)
- Engineering regulations — quality and design of construction materials (12‑16 series)
- Exits and means of egress (Chapters 12‑10 series)
- Protective signaling systems and detectors (Chapters 12‑72‑1, ‑2, ‑3)
- Radiation shielding standards (Chapter 12‑31C)
- Referenced standards index / cross‑reference table (Part 12 listing of referenced standards)
- Releasing systems for security bars (egress-release standards)
- Standards for insulating materials (Chapter 12‑13)
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