CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

Scope and applicability of single‑point latching/locking standard

Q: If a product is listed by an approved agency, can I assume it’s acceptable?

No — the code says listing shall not be construed as necessarily indicating compliance in all respects; the listing report may be reviewed and evaluated. § 12-10-200(c).

Q: What does “inside knob” mean in the standard?

“ Inside knob ” is the knob/lever/bar/paddle on the side of the door which must be turned or depressed to unlatch or unlock the door to permit egress. § 12-10-200(d)(1).

This standard (see **§ 12-10-200.**) controls single‑point latch and lock hardware used on required exit doors. Whether it applies depends on the occupancy group (Group R/M are treated specially) and the **occupant load of 10**; fire‑rated doors and alternate designs have additional requirements. If in doubt, submit test data or ask the AHJ because a third‑party listing alone does not guarantee compliance.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The controlling rule is § 12-10-200. — the State Fire Marshal standard for single‑point latches and locks applies to builders hardware intended for use on required means of egress doors, generally for occupancies outside of Group R and Group M, and it treats fire‑rated doors, listing, alternate designs, and definitions for knobs explicitly. § 12-10-200. also explains that alternate designs may be submitted for evaluation and that listing by an approved agency does not automatically mean full compliance.

Plain English: this standard governs single‑point latch/lock hardware used on required exit doors — know your occupancy group and whether the door is fire‑rated; those two items determine additional requirements.

Requirements in detail

Summary of the rule (synthesized from the controlling text): § 12-10-200. restricts the standard’s application by occupancy and occupant load, requires additional conformity for fire‑rated doors, allows submission of alternate designs for evaluation, and warns that third‑party listings are evidence but not conclusive proof of compliance.

Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference)

Decision dimension	Values / thresholds	What that means for applicability	Code Reference
Occupancy group	Group R or Group M vs other occupancies	Standard is aimed at hardware for required egress doors in occupancies other than Group R and M; the text also treats small occupant‑load situations specially. See notes below for interpretation.	§ 12-10-200.
Occupant load threshold	10 (persons)	The occupant load of 10 is the numeric threshold called out in the scope; occupancy & load together determine whether the standard governs the device.	§ 12-10-200.
Fire‑rated doors	Door bearing a fire‑retardant classification	Builders hardware intended for use on fire‑rated doors must also conform to the fire‑door construction/performance tests in SFM 12‑7‑4 (Section 12‑7‑400).	§ 12-10-200(b).
Listing by approved agency	Listed vs unlisted	A listing is useful evidence but does not necessarily mean full compliance; the listing agency test report may be submitted for review and evaluated by the State Fire Marshal.	§ 12-10-200(c).
Alternate designs	Any (non‑standard) design or material	Alternate designs may be submitted with substantiating test data for evaluation and possible recognition.	§ 12-10-200(a).
Defined terms	Inside knob, Outside knob	Definitions in § 12-10-200(d) control how devices are evaluated (which side is considered the egress side, what constitutes the inside knob, etc.).	§ 12-10-200(d).

How to read the occupancy + occupant‑load rule

The plain text of § 12-10-200. ties application to required means of egress doors and explicitly references Group R and Group M and an occupant load of 10 as limits or special‑case points. The standard language is the controlling authority; where the written text is unclear in a borderline project (for example a Group M room with occupant load exactly 10), consult the enforcing agency/AHJ for confirmation.

Definitions called out (first occurrence bolded)

Inside knob — knob/lever/bar/paddle on the side that must be turned or depressed to permit egress. § 12-10-200(d)(1).
Outside knob — knob on the corridor side (or exterior) of the door. § 12-10-200(d)(2).

Exceptions & special cases

Fire doors: if the door bears a fire‑retardant classification, the hardware must also meet the fire‑door test/construction standard SFM 12‑7‑4 (Section 12‑7‑400) in addition to the single‑point latch/lock requirements. § 12-10-200(b).
Listing: hardware listed by a recognized agency is helpful evidence but not an automatic pass — the State Fire Marshal may require the listing test report and still evaluate for conformance. § 12-10-200(c).
Alternate designs/materials: the standard explicitly allows submission of alternate designs with substantiating test data for evaluation and possible approval. § 12-10-200(a).

If any specific installation or product question (e.g., whether a particular product listing covers a particular in‑service use, or whether a small room in Group R is covered) remains, the regulation directs submitting test data or consulting the State Fire Marshal/AHJ for a formal decision. § 12-10-200(a) & (c).

Common mistakes

Treating an approved third‑party listing as automatic compliance. The code expressly warns listings are not necessarily proof of full compliance. § 12-10-200(c).
Overlooking the fire‑rated door requirement — fire‑rated doors trigger the separate fire‑door test requirements in SFM 12‑7‑4. § 12-10-200(b).
Misreading the occupancy/occupant‑load text — the occupancy group and the occupant load of 10 are decision points; if the code wording produces uncertainty for your project, get the AHJ to confirm. § 12-10-200.
Assuming the standard applies to non‑required or interior doors — the scope is specifically for hardware intended for required means of egress doors. § 12-10-200(a).

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A small professional office (Group B) has a tenant suite with a required means of egress door. Occupant load = 20 persons, door is NOT fire‑rated.

Step 1 — Occupancy check: Group B is not Group R or M → the standard applies to hardware intended for required egress doors in this occupancy. § 12-10-200(a).
Step 2 — Occupant load check: occupant load 20 > 10 — no special small‑load exception is invoked. § 12-10-200(a).
Step 3 — Fire rating check: door is not fire‑rated, so § 12-10-200(b) fire‑door tests are not triggered.

Conclusion: the single‑point latch/lock intended for this required means of egress door must meet the design requirements and testing procedures of SFM Standard 12‑10‑2 as applied in § 12-10-200; if the manufacturer proposes an alternate design, they may submit substantiating test data for evaluation. § 12-10-200(a).

Related provisions (select CRSC sections to consult)

§ 12-10-201. — Manufacturer installation instructions and required contents.
§ 12-10-202. — Design criteria for knobs, levers, backset, etc., (useful when evaluating conformity of a particular hardware design).
§ 12-10-304. — Endurance and performance test requirements (cycle tests, test report requirements).
§ 12-10-305. — Emergency operation test (force measurements and deformation limits).

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
(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.

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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.
1. 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.
2. 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 Medium relevance — show source text
Fire tests of building
construction and materials.|SFM|Part 2, Section 703| |Chapter 12-7-2|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-7-3|Fire-resistive standards.
Fire testing furnaces.|SFM|Part 9, Section 3001| |Chapter 12-7-4|Fire-resistive standards.
Fire door assembly tests.|SFM|Part 2, Section 716| |Chapter 12-7-5|Fire-resistive standards. Interior
finish of decorative material.|SFM|Part 2, Chapter 8
Part 9, Chapter 8| |Chapter 12-7A|Materials and construction methods for
exterior wildfire exposure|SFM|Part 7, Chapter 5| |Chapter 12-8-1|Fire-resistive standards for fire protection|SFM|Part 2, Sections 408.14 and 435.6.2| |Appendix 12-8-1A|Calculation of the total rate of heat and carbon
monoxide or carbon dioxide production|SFM|| |Appendix 12-8-1B|Guide to mounting techniques for wall and
ceiling interior finish material|SFM|| |Chapter 12-10-1|Exits. Power-operated exit doors.|SFM|Part 2, Sections 408.4.2, 1010.1.4.2, 1010.1.9.1| |Chapter 12-10-2|Exits. Single-point latching or locking devices.|SFM|Part 2, Section 1010.2.2
Part 9, Section 1010.2.2| |Chapter 12-10-3|Exits. Emergency exit and panic hardware.
|SFM|Part 9, Section 1009.12| |Chapter 12-11A,
12-11B|Detectable warning products and directional
surfaces|DSA|Part 2, Sections 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247,
11B-406.5.12, 11B-705, 11B-810.5.2| |Chapter 12-12|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-13|Standards for insulating material|CA/SFM|Part 2.5, Section R302.10.1
Part 6, Section 110.8
Part 9, Section 720, Table 721.1(1)
Part 11, Section A5.504.4.8| |Chapter 12-16-1|California standard for earthquake-actuated
automatic gas shutoff systems|DSA|Part 2, Chapters 16 and 16A
Part 5, Section 1211.8| |Chapter 12-16-2|California standard for residential excess flow
actuated automatic gas shutoff valves|DSA|Part 5, Section 1209.1| |Chapter 12-31C|Radiation shielding|DPH|Part 2, Section 3102C| |Chapter 12-71|Air filters|SFM|Part 4, Sections 401.2, 509.2.3, 509.2.3.4
Part 6, Section 120.1| |Chapter 12-72-1|Protective signaling systems.
Standard test procedures.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-2|Protective signaling systems.

CRSC § 12-3 Medium relevance — show source text

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PART 12 CROSS REFERENCE TABLE

(Cross reference table is nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user.)

PART 12 STANDARD	SUBJECT	ADOPTING AGENCY	ASSOCIATED TITLE 24 BUILDING STANDARD
Chapter 12-3	Releasing systems for security bars in dwellings	SFM	Part 2, Sections 1031.2.1, 1031.6, 1032.7 Part 2.5, Sections R319.1.1 and R319.4.4 Part 9, Sections 1031.2.1, 1031.6, 1032.7 Appendix 4 Section 452.1.5 and Title 19 provisions 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6 reprinted in Part 9 Part 10, Section 505.4
Chapter 12-4A	Laboratory animal quarters standards	DPH	Part 2, Section 1236
Chapter 12-4-1	Stage and Platforms	SFM	Part 2, Sections 410.2.7, 410.2.7.1, 410.2.7.2 Part 9, Sections 105.6.51, 4809
Chapter 12-7-1	Fire-resistive standards. Fire tests of building construction and materials.	SFM	Part 2, Section 703
Chapter 12-7-2	Reserved
Chapter 12-7-3	Fire-resistive standards. Fire testing furnaces.	SFM	Part 9, Section 3001
Chapter 12-7-4	Fire-resistive standards. Fire door assembly tests.	SFM	Part 2, Section 716
Chapter 12-7-5	Fire-resistive standards. Interior finish of decorative material.	SFM	Part 2, Chapter 8 Part 9, Chapter 8
Chapter 12-7A	Materials and construction methods for exterior wildfire exposure	SFM	Part 7, Chapter 5
Chapter 12-8-1	Fire-resistive standards for fire protection	SFM	Part 2, Sections 408.14 and 435.6.2
Appendix 12-8-1A	Calculation of the total rate of heat and carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide production	SFM
Appendix 12-8-1B	Guide to mounting techniques for wall and ceiling interior finish material	SFM
Chapter 12-10-1	Exits. Power-operated exit doors.	SFM	Part 2, Sections 408.4.2, 1010.1.4.2, 1010.1.9.1
Chapter 12-10-2	Exits. Single-point latching or locking devices.	SFM	Part 2, Section 1010.2.2 Part 9, Section 1010.2.2
Chapter 12-10-3	Exits. Emergency exit and panic hardware.

CRSC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
1. Location of the breakway tension adjustment, opening and closing speed adjustment, opening and closing snub speed adjustments, opening and closing power pressure adjustments, and similar controls shall be concealed and not readily accessible where they may be subject to tampering.
2. Doors shall be suspended from overhead track. Operators, control levers or mechanisms shall be guarded.
1 Width: Shall be measured between the exposed edges of the carpet tread surface excluding molded edge bevels or aluminum edge trim. 2 Length: Shall be measured from the centerline of the doors pivot to the exposed edge of the carpet tread surface excluding molded edge bevels or aluminum edge trim. 3 Safety Mat: A safety mat is one that will prevent the door from opening if there is pressure on the safety mat before pressure is applied to the activating mat, and one that will prevent the door from closing following normal door actuation until pressure on the safety mat is removed.

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EXITS

(b) Closing mechanism. The closing force of sliding doors at 24 inches (609 mm) of opening shall not exceed 30 pounds with a closing speed not in excess of 1.5 feet per second.

(c) Opening width. The minimum clear width of the door opening with the swinging section, or sections in the 90-degree open position shall be not less than 28 inches (711 mm) with no single leaf less than 24 inches (609 mm) in width.

(d) Opening forces. The swinging section in sliding doors shall swing open into the full open position when an opening force not exceeding 40 pounds is applied at the normal push plate location or on the crossbar of panic hardware.

(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.

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SINGLE-POINT LATCHING OR LOCKING DEVICES

STANDARD 12-10-2

STATE FIRE MARSHAL

SCOPE
CRSC § 12-7 Medium 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.
1. 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.
2. 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 § 12-8 Medium relevance — show source text
12-8-100: Room Fire Tests for Wall and Ceiling Materials

NA

12-10-1: Power Operated Exit Doors

NA

12-10-2: Single Point Latching or Locking Devices

NA

12-10-3: Emergency Exit and Panic Hardware

NA

(The Office of the State Fire Marshal standards referred to above are found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12.):

SJI Steel Joist Institute, 140 Evans Street, Suite 203, Florence, SC 29501

SJI 100—2020: Standard Specification for K-Series, LH-Series, and DLH-Series Open Web Steel Joists and for Joist Girders

1604.3.3, 2207.1, 2207.2, 2207.3, 2207.4, 2207.5

SJI 200—2015: Standard Specification for CJ-Series Composite Steel Joists

1604.3.3, 2207.1, 2207.2, 2207.3, 2207.4, 2207.5

SPRI Single-Ply Roofing Industry, 465 Waverly Oaks Road, Suite 421, Waltham, MA 02452

ANSI/SPRI GT-1—2022: Test Standard for External Gutter Systems

1504.6.1, 1511.7.6.1

ANSI/SPRI RP-4—2019: Wind Design Standard for Ballasted Single-ply Roofing Systems

1504.5

ANSI/SPRI VF-1—2021: External Fire Design Standard for Vegetative Roofs

1505.10

ANSI/SPRI/FM 4435/ES-1—2017: Test Standard for Edge Systems Used with Low Slope Roofing Systems

1504.6, 1511.7.6.1

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REFERENCED STANDARDS

SRCC Solar Rating & Certification Corporation, 400 High Point Drive, Suite 400, Cocoa, FL 32926

ICC 900/SRCC 300—2020: Solar Thermal System Standard

3111.2.1

ICC 901/SRCC 100—2020: Solar Thermal Collector Standard

3111.2.1

TIA Telecommunications Industry Association, 1320 N. Courthouse Road #200, Arlington, VA 22201

ANSI/TIA 222-I—2023: Structural Standard for Antenna Supporting Structures, Antennas and Small Wind Turbine Support

Structures

1609.1.1, 3108.1, 3108.2

TMS The Masonry Society, 105 South Sunset Street, Suite Q, Longmont, CO 80501-6172

216—2014(19): Code Requirements for Determining Fire Resistance of Concrete and Masonry Construction Assemblies Table 721.1(2), 722.1

302—2018: Standard Method for Determining the Sound Transmission Ratings for Masonry Assemblies

1208.2.1

402—16: Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures

2109.1, 2109.1.1, 2109.2
CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
(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.
1. 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.
2. 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.

(c) Tested design. Builders hardware single-point latching or locking devices shall be designed to retract the latch bolt and/or dead bolt after application of the horizontal forces and the endurance tests without exceeding the releasing torque specified in 1210-204 (h). (d) Knobs. Knobs shall have a minimum diameter of 2 inches (51 mm) and a maximum diameter of 2 [3] / 4 inches (70 mm). (e) “T” handle. “T” handles shall be oval-shaped and have minimum dimensions of 1 [3] / 4 inch by 1 inch (44 mm by 25 mm) at center portion with 1 [1] / 4 inch (32 mm) projection. (f) Levers. The lever of lever actuated latches or locks shall be curved with a return to within [1] / 2 inch (13 mm) of the door to prevent catching on the clothing of persons during egress.

(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).
CRSC § 2603.10 Medium relevance — show source text
2603.10

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 35-39

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REFERENCED STANDARDS

SDI Steel Deck Institute, 2661 Clearview Road #3, Allison Park, PA 15101

ANSI/SDI QA/QC—2022: Standard for Quality Control and Quality Assurance for Installation of Steel Deck

1705.2.3

ANSI/SDI SD—2022: Standard for Steel Deck

2208.1

SFM State of California, Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Office of the State Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 944246, Sacramento, CA 94246-2460

12-3: Releasing Systems for Security Bars in Dwellings

1029.4

12-7-3: Fire-testing Furnaces

NA

12-7A-1: Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing

703A.7, 707A.2

12-7A-2: Exterior Window

703A.7, 708A.2.1

12-7A-3: Under Eave

703A.7, 707A.8

12-7A-4: Decking:

703A.7, 709A.3

12-7A-4A: Decking Alternate Method A

703A.7, 709A.3

12-7A-5: Ignition Resistant Building Material

703A.7, 709A.3

12-8-100: Room Fire Tests for Wall and Ceiling Materials

NA

12-10-1: Power Operated Exit Doors

NA

12-10-2: Single Point Latching or Locking Devices

NA

12-10-3: Emergency Exit and Panic Hardware

NA

(The Office of the State Fire Marshal standards referred to above are found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12.):

SJI Steel Joist Institute, 140 Evans Street, Suite 203, Florence, SC 29501

SJI 100—2020: Standard Specification for K-Series, LH-Series, and DLH-Series Open Web Steel Joists and for Joist Girders

1604.3.3, 2207.1, 2207.2, 2207.3, 2207.4, 2207.5

SJI 200—2015: Standard Specification for CJ-Series Composite Steel Joists

1604.3.3, 2207.1, 2207.2, 2207.3, 2207.4, 2207.5

SPRI Single-Ply Roofing Industry, 465 Waverly Oaks Road, Suite 421, Waltham, MA 02452

ANSI/SPRI GT-1—2022: Test Standard for External Gutter Systems

1504.6.1, 1511.7.6.1

ANSI/SPRI RP-4—2019: Wind Design Standard for Ballasted Single-ply Roofing Systems

1504.5

ANSI/SPRI VF-1—2021: External Fire Design Standard for Vegetative Roofs
CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
EXITS

(f) Nonmetallic materials. Nonmetallic materials may be used as coatings for wearing surfaces, rollers, finishes or for similar purposes if the materials otherwise conform to these requirements.

ENDURANCE AND PERFORMANCE TESTS

Sec. 12-10-304.

(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 test facilities acceptable to the State Fire Marshal.

(b) Report. The test report shall include a detailed description of the releasing mechanism 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 dimension of parts before and after the endurance tests establishing conformance of materials. The report shall include copies of 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 tests.

(c) Test equipment. The releasing mechanism shall be applied on a suitable door hung on heavy duty ball bearing butts or pivots installed in a suitable metal frame in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. A motor-driven mechanism shall be used to actuate the cross-bar so as to release the latches or dead-locking bolts, push the door open and jerk the door shut so that the latches or dead-locking bolts operate as in service. The rate of operation or number of cycles shall be approximately ten per minute. For the test the assembly is to have only the lubrication which is provided at the factory or as recommended by the manufacturer in his installation instructions.

Note: Mechanisms involving dead-locking bolts may require modification in the test procedure in order to simulate the intended in-service condition. Modifications in the test procedure shall be filed for evaluation and approval before proceeding with the test.

(d) Releasing pressure. The motor-driven mechanism shall be arranged to apply not to exceed 15 pounds pressure against the cross-bar to release the door latch(es) or dead-locking bolts before the door is pushed open.

(e) Cycle test. The release mechanism and latches or dead-locking bolts shall function as intended for 100,000 cycles of operation without failure or excessive wear of the parts.

EMERGENCY OPERATION TEST

Sec. 12-10-305.

(a) Releasing pressure. The release mechanism shall be so designed that a horizontal force of 50 pounds or less will actuate the release bar and latches or dead-locking bolt when the latched or locked door is subjected to outward pressure as described in Sections 12-10-305 (c) and (d). The horizontal force shall be applied at any point along the cross-bar perpendicular to the door in the direction of swing.

(b) Test specimen. The test specimen for the emergency operation test shall be the sample which has been previously subjected to the cycle test specified in Section 12-10-304.

(c) Testing instrument. The horizontal force applied to the cross-bar shall be measured with a calibrated spring scale or other approved means.

(d) Outward pressure, single door. A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 250 pounds against the latching edge in the direction in which the door opens. The thrust load shall be applied to the stile immediately above the latching mechanism.
CRSC § 12-3 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 12-3-9—ENDURANCE TEST

12-3-9.1 A sample of the security bar releasing system shall function as intended during 250 cycles of operation without failure or excessive wear of the parts, including serving or fraying of individual cable wires. Following the cycling, the system shall be subjected to the Operation Test.

12-3-9.2 The system shall be operated and reset as described in the manufacturer's operating instructions. As part of the cycling, it is only necessary to unlatch, disengage and reset the system, and not open the security bars to the full open position. The cycling rate shall not exceed 30 cycles per minute.

SECTION 12-3-10—ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE TEST

12-3-10.1 After each of the following exposures, test assemblies shall be subjected to the Manual Actuation Test. The test shall be performed while the test assemblies are in the test chambers, or immediately after their removal from the test chamber. Opening forces after these conditionings shall not exceed the values shown in Section 12-3-8.2 or 12-3-8.3. A single sample shall be subjected to each exposure. The same sample, or different sample, shall be allowed to be used for each exposure condition.

12-3-10.2 Elevated ambient. Samples shall be conditioned in a 120°F (49°C) environment for 24 hours.

12-3-10.3 Low ambient. Samples shall be conditioned in a 32°F (0°C) environment for 24 hours.

12-3-10.4 Humidity test. Samples shall be conditioned for 24 hours in moist air having a relative humidity of 85 +/– 5 percent at a temperature of 90°F +/– 5°F (32 +/– 2°C).

SECTION 12-3-11—ABUSE TEST

12-3-11.1 A sample shall comply with the Manual Actuation Test requirements in Sections 12-3-8.2 and 12-3-8.3 after being subjected to the simulated abuse provided in Section 12-3-11.2.

12-3-11.2 The sample shall be subject to six impacts of 5 feet-pounds (6.8 N · m) each applied with a 2-inch diameter (51 mm) steel ball on portions of the release system that are most likely to adversely affect the operation of the system.

MARKINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION 12-3-12—MARKINGS

12-3-12.1 Security bars and the latching mechanism shall be permanently marked with the company name, model number and date of manufacture. When a manufacturer produces assemblies at more than one factory, each such assembly shall have a distinctive marking to identify it as the product of a particular factory.

12-3-12.2 Symbols or diagrams shall be marked on the manual actuator to identify how to manually release the security bars. The diagram or symbols shall be readily visible to occupants when the assembly is mounted as intended.

12-3-12.3 Security bars and the latching mechanism shall be marked with the name or logo of the testing agency certifying to compliance of the products with this standard, and identification of the standard as SFM SB-2000.

12-3-12.4 Adhesive-backed labels used to provide required markings shall be suitable for the application and shall comply with UL Standard 969, 1995 Edition.
CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
Note: Mechanisms involving dead-locking bolts may require modification in the test procedure in order to simulate the intended in-service condition. Modifications in the test procedure shall be filed for evaluation and approval before proceeding with the test.

(d) Releasing pressure. The motor-driven mechanism shall be arranged to apply not to exceed 15 pounds pressure against the cross-bar to release the door latch(es) or dead-locking bolts before the door is pushed open.

(e) Cycle test. The release mechanism and latches or dead-locking bolts shall function as intended for 100,000 cycles of operation without failure or excessive wear of the parts.

EMERGENCY OPERATION TEST

Sec. 12-10-305.

(a) Releasing pressure. The release mechanism shall be so designed that a horizontal force of 50 pounds or less will actuate the release bar and latches or dead-locking bolt when the latched or locked door is subjected to outward pressure as described in Sections 12-10-305 (c) and (d). The horizontal force shall be applied at any point along the cross-bar perpendicular to the door in the direction of swing.

(b) Test specimen. The test specimen for the emergency operation test shall be the sample which has been previously subjected to the cycle test specified in Section 12-10-304.

(c) Testing instrument. The horizontal force applied to the cross-bar shall be measured with a calibrated spring scale or other approved means.

(d) Outward pressure, single door. A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 250 pounds against the latching edge in the direction in which the door opens. The thrust load shall be applied to the stile immediately above the latching mechanism.

(e) Outward pressure, double doors. A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 250 pounds against the lock stile of each door of doors in pairs 2 inches (51 mm) in from the edge at midpoint between top and bottom of each door leaf in the direction of door swing.

(f) Release bar deformation. The cross-bar on a 36-inch (914 mm) wide door shall not be permanently set or deformed in excess of [1] / 4 inch (6 mm), by the test; a spacing of at least 1 inch (25 mm) is to be provided and maintained between the cross-bar and the face of the door when the horizontal force is applied against the cross-bar.

MARKING

Sec. 12-10-306. The listee’s name (or approved symbol), type or model designation shall be plainly marked on the releasing assembly. Devices and assemblies which are not listed by an approved listing agency for the intended purpose shall bear a label or other identifying markings as approved by the State Fire Marshal.

84 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

CHAPTERS

12-11A and 11B BUILDING AND FACILITY ACCESS SPECIFICATIONS

Detectable warning products and directional surfaces installed after January 1, 2001, shall be evaluated by an independent entity, selected by the Department of General Services, Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, for all occupancies, including transportation and other outdoor environments, except that when products and surfaces are for use in residential housing evaluation shall be in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development. See Government Code Section 4460.

PRODUCT APPROVAL FOR DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS AND DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
CRSC § 5601.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
1124—06: Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and Retail Sales of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles

5601.1.3

1124—22: Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, and Storage of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles

202, 5604.2, 5605.1, 5605.3, 5605.4, 5605.5, 5609.1

1125—22: Code for the Manufacture of Model Rocket and High-Power Rocket Motors

5601.1.4

1126—21: Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience

5604.2, 5605.1, 5608.1, 5608.2.2, 5608.4, 5608.5

1127—18: Code for High-Power Rocketry

5601.1.4

1142—22: Standard on Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Firefighting

B103.3

1225—22: Standard for Emergency Services Communications

510.4.2, 510.5

2001—22: Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, as amended* Table 901.6.1, 904.10, 1207.5.5

*NFPA 2001, Amended Sections as follows:

Add Sections 4.3.5.1.1 and 4.3.5.2.1 to read as follows:

4.3.5.1.1 Alarms signals from the fire extinguishing system shall not interfere with the building fire alarm signal.

80-22 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

REFERENCED STANDARDS

4.3.5.2.1 The lens on visual appliances shall be “red” in color.

Exception: Other lens colors are permitted where approved by the enforcing agency.

2010— 23 : Standard for Fixed Aerosol Fire-Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.13, 1207.5.5

SFM State of California, Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Office of the State Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 944246 Sacramento, CA 94246-2460

SFM 12-3: Releasing Systems for Security Bars in Dwellings

SFM 12-7-3: Fire-testing Furnaces

SFM 12-7A-1: Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing

SFM 12-7A-2: Exterior Window

SFM 12-7A-3: Under Eave

SFM 12-7A-4: Decking

SFM 12-7A-4A: Decking Alternate Method A

SFM 12-7A-5: Ignition Resistant Building Material

SFM 12-8-100: Room Fire Tests for Wall and Ceiling Materials

SFM 12-10-1: Power Operated Exit Doors

SFM 12-10-2: Single Point Latching or Locking Devices

Frequently asked questions

Who decides whether my particular latch/lock “complies” with the standard?

The State Fire Marshal evaluates submitted test data and listings; an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) enforces the code locally. § 12-10-200(a)–(c).

If a product is listed by an approved agency, can I assume it’s acceptable?

No — the code says listing shall not be construed as necessarily indicating compliance in all respects; the listing report may be reviewed and evaluated. § 12-10-200(c).

Do I need to meet extra tests for a fire‑rated door?

Yes — hardware intended for use on doors bearing a fire‑retardant classification must also conform to SFM 12‑7‑4 (Section 12‑7‑400). § 12-10-200(b).

Can I propose a new design or material that isn’t explicitly described in the standard?

Yes — alternate designs and materials may be submitted with substantiating test data for evaluation and possible recognition. § 12-10-200(a).

What does “inside knob” mean in the standard?

“Inside knob” is the knob/lever/bar/paddle on the side of the door which must be turned or depressed to unlatch or unlock the door to permit egress. § 12-10-200(d)(1).

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Related in the CRSC

Marking and identification requirements for latches and locks

Installation instructions and design criteria for single‑point latches

Endurance, torque and roller‑latch test requirements

Single‑point latching and locking devices (SFM 12‑10‑2)

California Referenced Standards Code