CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

What CRSC standard governs releasing systems for security bars in dwellings?

Chapter 12-3 of the CRSC requires that security-bar release systems be operable from inside the dwelling without tools, keys, or special knowledge; it specifies allowable actuator types, strict force limits for finger/hand/foot releases, packaging/installation and testing (operation, endurance, environmental and abuse), and that the manual release must work even if automatic actuation is present.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Referenced Standards Code (CRSC) Chapter 12-3 (titled Releasing systems for security bars in dwellings) establishes the requirements for releasing systems that allow occupants to manually unlatch and open security bars on doors and windows used as emergency escape routes. The scope and key mandate are in § 12-3-1.1 (scope) and the requirement that the system be operable from inside without tools, keys or special knowledge is stated in § 12-3-3.3.

The single most important rule: releasing systems must allow an occupant inside the dwelling to quickly and simply unlatch and open security bars without tools, keys or special knowledge. § 12-3-3.3

Requirements in detail

Definitions to know (first mention bolded)

  • Security bars — metal or other bars, grilles or grates used to secure doors/windows; defined in § 12-3-2.4.6.
  • Escape / Emergency means of escape — movement from inside a dwelling to a safe point outside; defined in § 12-3-2.4.2 and § 12-3-2.4.3.

Assembly & basic behavior

  • The releasing system (bars, latches, manual actuators, cables, hinges, mounting hardware) is treated as a system; it must be packaged and supplied together or meet the instruction‑manual exception. § 12-3-3.1.
  • The system must be maintainable and designed to immediately unlatch when actuated from the interior, without tools, keys, or special knowledge. § 12-3-3.2 and § 12-3-3.3.
  • The manual actuator must be mounted inside the dwelling and accessible (no obstructing covers that inhibit operation). § 12-3-3.4.

Manual actuation — permitted actuator types and motion limits

  • Actuator types allowed: finger, hand, or foot actuated (definitions and examples in § 12-3-4.5.1). § 12-3-4.5.2–4.5.4 govern permitted motions and that release is not reengaged by letting go.

Forces and performance limits (decision-relevant values)

Decision dimension Required value / threshold Code Reference
Finger-actuated average unlatch force ≤ 5 pounds (22 N) (average of 5 attempts) § 12-3-8.2.1
Finger-actuated maximum single attempt ≤ 10 pounds (44 N) § 12-3-8.2.1
Hand-actuated average unlatch force ≤ 5 pounds (22 N) (average of 5 attempts) § 12-3-8.2.2
Hand-actuated maximum single attempt ≤ 10 pounds (44 N) § 12-3-8.2.2
Foot-actuated average unlatch force ≤ 15 pounds (66 N) (average of 5 attempts) § 12-3-8.2.3
Foot-actuated maximum single attempt ≤ 30 pounds (132 N) § 12-3-8.2.3
Alternative for kick-type foot actuators Pendulum impact with 25 lb weight, 4 ft pendulum, from 10 in — must unlatch 5× § 12-3-8.3
Force to set bars in motion after unlatching ≤ 30 pounds (132 N) § 12-3-8.4
Force to open bars to minimum required width ≤ 15 pounds (66 N) § 12-3-8.4
Secure attachment (resist exterior push) Resist 50‑pound (22 N) force without opening or damage § 12-3-6.2
Endurance 250 cycles without failure before Operation Test § 12-3-9.1
Environmental conditioning (examples) 120°F (49°C) for 24 h; 32°F (0°C) for 24 h; 85% RH at 90°F for 24 h § 12-3-10.2–10.4
Opening/entrainment hazard No opening shall pass a 4‑inch (102 mm) sphere § 12-3-3.12
Cable tension rule Cables may be used only where transmitted force is < 1/10 the manufacturer’s rated working tension/compression § 12-3-4.6.1

Tests required (high level)

  • Operation Test: verify reliable operation, reset and repeatability (see Section 12-3-7).
  • Manual Actuation Test: measure forces per Section 12-3-8.
  • Endurance Test: operate 250 cycles per § 12-3-9.1 and then re-test.
  • Environmental Exposure and Abuse tests are required to show continued compliance after conditioning and impacts. §§ 12-3-10 & 12-3-11.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The system may be provided with automatic actuation only if a manual release that meets these requirements is also included; automatic failure must not inhibit the manual release. § 12-3-3.7.
  • Security bars may be shipped separately from releasing hardware only when the instruction manual meets § 12-3-13.2 (the standard permits this exception). § 12-3-3.1 (exception).
  • These requirements do not evaluate the product’s resistance to external forced entry or its removability from the exterior by emergency responders — they are limited to interior manual actuation for escape. §§ 12-3-1.4–1.5.

Common mistakes

  • Relying on springs as the sole release force (the release must not depend on springs to unlatch — springs may only assist). § 12-3-3.5.
  • Using multi-step, non‑intuitive motions (finger/hand systems are limited to one or two distinct motions; foot systems to single foot motion). § 12-3-4.5.2.
  • Failing to test after environmental conditioning or abuse — opening forces must still meet limits after the conditioning specified in § 12-3-10 and abuse in § 12-3-11.
  • Mounting manual actuator where it can be blocked by a cover or placed outside the dwelling — actuator must be inside and accessible. § 12-3-3.4.
  • Miscalculating actuator force compliance by checking only one attempt instead of the required five attempts and averaging per § 12-3-8.1–8.2.

Worked example — finger-actuated release (concrete numbers)

Scenario: A manufacturer supplies an interior finger-actuated release. The test technician performs five measured unlatch attempts and records forces: 4.8 lb, 5.2 lb, 4.6 lb, 5.0 lb, 4.4 lb.

Step 1 — average: (4.8 + 5.2 + 4.6 + 5.0 + 4.4) / 5 = 4.8 lb. This is ≤ 5 lb average required by § 12-3-8.2.1, so OK.

Step 2 — single-attempt maximum: highest attempt = 5.2 lb, which is ≤ 10 lb maximum allowed by § 12-3-8.2.1, so OK.

Step 3 — verify that releasing the actuator does not reengage the bar and that the bars can be set in motion with ≤ 30 lb and opened to min width with ≤ 15 lb per § 12-3-8.4. If the system meets those values and passes the Operation and Endurance tests, it complies with the key force/performance metrics.

Related provisions (Chapter 12-3 specific)

  • Scope and intended application — § 12-3-1.1.
  • Definitions (dwelling unit, escape, security bars) — § 12-3-2.4.1–2.4.6.
  • Assembly and basic operational requirements — § 12-3-3.1–3.8.
  • Materials corrosion/resistance requirements — § 12-3-4.2–4.4.
  • Manual actuation definitions and requirements — § 12-3-4.5.1–4.5.4.
  • Cable/connector rule (< 1/10 rated tension) — § 12-3-4.6.1.
  • Secure attachment (50 lb exterior force) — § 12-3-6.2.
  • Manual actuation testing and force limits — § 12-3-8.1–8.4.
  • Endurance, environmental, and abuse testing — §§ 12-3-9, 12-3-10, 12-3-11.
  • Markings and instructions (manufacturer info and installation instructions) — § 12-3-12 and sample submission requirements § 12-3-5.3.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CRSC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

    12-3-3.11 Security bars shall be constructed so that they do not swing up to open. They shall not include projections that can easily snag the clothing of those escaping through the opening.

    12-3-3.12 Security bars shall have been constructed such that a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter shall not pass through any opening and shall not create other potential head entrapment hazards.

    SECTION 12-3-4—MATERIALS

    12-3-4.1 The materials employed shall have adequate mechanical strength to perform their expected function.

    12-3-4.2 O-rings, gaskets and seals shall comply with UL Standard 157, 1996 Edition. Polymeric materials shall comply with UL Standard 746C, 1995 Edition, Section 25-27.

    Exception: O-rings, gaskets, seals and polymeric materials that are used as decorative parts, or whose failure will not affect the ability of the system to comply with these requirements.

    12-3-4.3 Components constructed of dissimilar metals shall not be used in applications where contact between them is likely to cause galvanic corrosion. The materials employed shall reduce the likelihood of the release mechanism becoming inoperative due to corrosion.

    12-3-4.4 Ferrous metal parts shall be 300 series stainless steel or protected against corrosion using minimum G60 or A60 hot-dipped mil galvanization, 0.0104 mm thick zinc coating, 0.0127 mm thick cadmium coating or two coats of organic outdoor paint.

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    RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    12-3-4.5 Manual actuators.

    12-3-4.5.1 Security bar releasing assembly mechanisms shall include a manual actuation mechanism that is capable of unlatching the security bars so that they can be opened by the occupants. The actuating force shall be applied in one of the following

    manners:

    Finger actuated: Pushing with the index finger or pulling a loop with the index finger in a curled position.

    Hand actuated: Pulling, pushing, twisting, rotating or turning a lever, knob, handle, rod or similar actuator with the hand or multiple fingers.

    Foot actuated: Kicking, depressing or stepping on an actuating pedal, lever, stirrup or similar actuator.

    12-3-4.5.2 On foot-actuated systems, only a single foot motion shall be used to disengage the bar assembly from the latch. On finger- and hand-actuated systems, one or two distinct hand or finger motions shall be used to disengage the bar assembly from the latch.

    12-3-4.5.3 Releasing the actuator after the latch has been disengaged from the bar assembly shall not reengage the bar assembly.

    12-3-4.5.4 No features or methods shall be provided or referenced in the instruction manual to inhibit the operation of the releasing mechanism.

    12-3-4.6 Cables and connectors.

    12-3-4.6.1 Cables connecting actuators to latches and release mechanisms shall only be used in applications where the force transmitted by them during normal operation is less than [ 1] / 10 the manufacturer’s rated working tension or compression.

  • CRSC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

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    12-3-2.4.2 Escape. For the purposes of these requirements, escape refers to movement of occupants from the interior of a residential dwelling unit to a safe point outside of the dwelling unit during an emergency fire condition.

    12-3-2.4.3 Emergency means of escape. A passage independent of and remote from the primary means of escape that provides a means of travel from living and sleeping spaces inside a dwelling unit to the outside.

    12-3-2.4.4 Means of escape. A concept included in building codes that, in most cases, requires sleeping rooms and living areas in dwelling units to be provided with at least one primary means of escape and one secondary means of escape to the outside.

    12-3-2.4.5 Primary means of escape. A door, stairway or ramp providing a means of unobstructed travel from living spaces inside a dwelling unit to the outside at street or ground level.

    12-3-2.4.6 Security bars. For the purposes of these requirements, the term “security bars” includes “burglar bars” and refers to metal and other bars, grilles, grates and other barriers that are designed to provide security for doors and windows in dwelling units. The purpose of security bars, by their mere presence on a building, is to deter a potential forced entry into the dwelling.

    CONSTRUCTION

    SECTION 12-3-3—ASSEMBLY

    12-3-3.1 Security bar releasing systems consist of the security bars, latches, manual actuators, cables, connectors, hinges and mounting hardware. The entire system shall be packaged in a single container. Standard mounting hardware including screws, bolts and washers are allowed to be provided separately.

    Exception: The security bars shall be allowed to be provided separately if the instruction manual complies with Section 12-3-13.2.

    12-3-3.2 The system shall be of a type capable of being readily maintained in proper operating condition.

    12-3-3.3 The system shall be designed to immediately unlatch the security bars when actuated. It shall be able to be operated from the inside of a building by the occupants without the use of tools, keys, or special knowledge or effort.

    12-3-3.4 The manual actuator used to release the security bars shall be designed to be mounted inside the dwelling unit for operation by the occupants. Covers or other barriers that can obstruct access to actuators shall not be provided if they inhibit the proper operation of the system.

    12-3-3.5 The release mechanism shall not depend on springs to release the latch, although springs are allowed to be provided to assist in the operation.

    12-3-3.6 The system shall be designed to prevent it from being locked in a closed position with a pad lock or similar device.

    12-3-3.7 Systems provided with an automatic actuating mechanism shall also include a manual release system that complies with these requirements. The automatic actuation portion of the system, even in the event of its failure, shall not inhibit operation of the manual releasing system.

    12-3-3.8 Manual actuation of the system shall release the security bars quickly and with simple, easily understood and intuitive motions. The system shall be capable of being operated in all lighting conditions.

  • CRSC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

    12-3-8.2.1 The average force required to unlatch finger-actuated systems shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 10 pounds (44 N).

    12-3-8.2.2 The average force required to unlatch hand-actuated systems shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 10 pounds (44 N).

    12-3-8.2.3 The average force required to unlatch foot-actuated systems shall not exceed 15 pounds (66 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 30 pounds (132 N).

    12-3-8.3 In lieu of complying with Section 12-3-8.2, foot-actuated systems designed to be operated by a kick shall successfully unlatch and disengage the latching mechanism each of five times when subjected to the following impact. The impact shall be applied by swinging a 25-pound (11.4 kg) weight on a 4-foot (1.2 m) pendulum from 10 inches (254 mm) away, measured horizontally. The point of impact on the foot actuator shall be at the bottom of the pendulum swing.

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    RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    12-3-8.4 Once the system is unlatched, a maximum force required to set the security bars in motion shall not exceed 30 pounds (132 N), and the maximum force required to open the security bars to the minimum required width shall not exceed 15 pounds (66 N).

    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.

  • CRSC § 12-72 High relevance — show source text

    |SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-2|Protective signaling systems. Single-and
    multiple-station fire alarm devices
    mechanically operated type.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-3|Protective signaling systems. Smoke detectors,
    combustion products type.|SFM||

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    12-1 ADMINISTRATION

    RESERVED

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    12-3 RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    (This standard includes provisions of Underwriters Laboratories Subject 2326, Appendix B, dated December 17, 1999, reprinted with their permission.)

    INTRODUCTION

    SECTION 12-3-1—SCOPE

    12-3-1.1 These requirements cover releasing systems for bars, grilles, mesh, glazing or other items intended to provide security at doors and windows required for emergency escape from dwelling units. When actuated by the occupant, the system allows the obstructions over the door or window to be moved so occupants can escape in the event of an emergency.

    12-3-1.2 These requirements only cover the ability of the releasing system to be manually activated from the interior of a dwelling unit by an occupant to affect an escape through the protected opening.

    12-3-1.3 These requirements cover releasing systems intended for use on the interior side of doors or windows in all climatic locations.

    12-3-1.4 These requirements do not evaluate the ability of the releasing system or obstructions to resist an external forced entry attack.

    12-3-1.5 These requirements do not evaluate the ability of the releasing system or obstructions to be opened or removed from the exterior of the residential dwelling unit by emergency response personnel during rescue operations.

    12-3-1.6 Products covered by these requirements are intended for installation in dwelling units to protect door and window openings that are designated by the California Building Standards Code to be used as the secondary means of escape from the living area.

    12-3-1.7 Products covered by these requirements are not intended to be used to protect doors in means of egress path for nonresidential occupancies, the common egress path of multifamily residential dwelling units or the primary means of egress path in a single-family dwelling unit.

    12-3-1.8 These requirements do not cover window guards or fall prevention devices that are intended to prevent falls from upper story windows.

    12-3-1.9 These requirements do not apply to storm doors and windows or light duty screens used for insect control.

  • CRSC § 1009.12 High relevance — show source text

    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. Single-and
    multiple-station fire alarm devices
    mechanically operated type.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-3|Protective signaling systems. Smoke detectors,
    combustion products type.|SFM||

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    12-1 ADMINISTRATION

    RESERVED

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    12-3 RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    (This standard includes provisions of Underwriters Laboratories Subject 2326, Appendix B, dated December 17, 1999, reprinted with their permission.)

    INTRODUCTION

    SECTION 12-3-1—SCOPE

    12-3-1.1 These requirements cover releasing systems for bars, grilles, mesh, glazing or other items intended to provide security at doors and windows required for emergency escape from dwelling units. When actuated by the occupant, the system allows the obstructions over the door or window to be moved so occupants can escape in the event of an emergency.

  • CRSC § 12-3 High 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 § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

    RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    12-3-4.5 Manual actuators.

    12-3-4.5.1 Security bar releasing assembly mechanisms shall include a manual actuation mechanism that is capable of unlatching the security bars so that they can be opened by the occupants. The actuating force shall be applied in one of the following

    manners:

    Finger actuated: Pushing with the index finger or pulling a loop with the index finger in a curled position.

    Hand actuated: Pulling, pushing, twisting, rotating or turning a lever, knob, handle, rod or similar actuator with the hand or multiple fingers.

    Foot actuated: Kicking, depressing or stepping on an actuating pedal, lever, stirrup or similar actuator.

    12-3-4.5.2 On foot-actuated systems, only a single foot motion shall be used to disengage the bar assembly from the latch. On finger- and hand-actuated systems, one or two distinct hand or finger motions shall be used to disengage the bar assembly from the latch.

    12-3-4.5.3 Releasing the actuator after the latch has been disengaged from the bar assembly shall not reengage the bar assembly.

    12-3-4.5.4 No features or methods shall be provided or referenced in the instruction manual to inhibit the operation of the releasing mechanism.

    12-3-4.6 Cables and connectors.

    12-3-4.6.1 Cables connecting actuators to latches and release mechanisms shall only be used in applications where the force transmitted by them during normal operation is less than [ 1] / 10 the manufacturer’s rated working tension or compression.

    12-3-4.6.2 Cables and connectors shall not be damaged, or have wire strands frayed during normal installation or use, and shall not contact sharp objects when installed as intended.

    12-3-4.6.3 The means used to secure cables or connectors to latches, release mechanisms and actuators shall provide a tight, reliable nonslip connection.

    12-3-4.7 Hinges.

    12-3-4.7.1 Hinges shall operate smoothly and reliably, and shall not be susceptible to rust or corrosion.

    PERFORMANCE

    SECTION 12-3-5—TEST SETUP AND SAMPLE PREPARATION

    12-3-5.1 Sample selection.

    12-3-5.1.1 Representative samples of the releasing system shall be assembled to a test fixture as described in the installation instructions, unless otherwise noted in specific tests. The assembly shall include the mounting, hardware, releasing mechanisms and fasteners recommended in the instructions.

    12-3-5.1.2 Samples to be tested shall include each type and sizes of releasing system shown in the installation instructions. Each type of releasing mechanism shall be subjected to the complete test program, unless it can be shown that tests on one type of mechanism are representative of the worst case testing on another mechanism. The sample shall be tested with mounting hardware and security bars that represent the worst case conditions of use. This shall be considered to be the security bars with the heaviest weight, greatest dimensions, and systems that create the greatest torque, moment and frictional forces on the hinges and releasing mechanism.

    12-3-5.1.3 The test report shall document the systems tested, along with the basis for sample selection.

    12-3-5.2 Test fixture.

  • CRSC § 2603.10 High relevance — show source text

    2603.10

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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 § 12.2 High relevance — show source text

    R506.2

    SBCA Structural Building Components Association 6300 Enterprise Lane Madison, WI 53719

    BCSI—2018: Building Component Safety Information—Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing, Restraining & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses

    R502.12.2, R802.10.3

    CFS-BCSI—(updated June 2016): Cold-formed Steel Building Component Safety Information (CFSBCSI)—Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of Cold-formed Steel Trusses

    R505.1.3, R804.3.6

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

    944246-2460

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

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

    SFM 12-7A-2: Exterior Window

    SFM 12-7A-3: Horizontal Protection Underside

    SFM 12-7A-4: Decking

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

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

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

    402—2022: Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures

    R404.1.2, R606.1, R606.1.1, R606.12.1, R606.12.2.3.1, R606.12.3.1, R703.12,

    403—2017: Direct Design Handbook for Masonry Structures

    R606.1, R606.1.1, R606.12.1, R606.12.3.1

    404—2023: Standard for the Design of Architectural Cast Stone

    R606.1

    602—2022: Specification for Masonry Structures

    R606.2.10, R606.2.13, R703.12

    TPI Truss Plate Institute 2670 Crain Highway, Suite 203 Waldorf, MD 20601

    ANSI/TPI 1—2022: National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction

    R502.12.1, R802.10.2

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 44-19

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

    REFERENCED STANDARDS

    UBC International Code Council, Inc. 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW 6th Floor Washington, DC 20001

    UBC Standard 15-2: Test Standard for Determining the Fire Retardancy of Roof-covering Materials

    R902

    UBC Standard 15-3: Wood Shakes

    R902

    UBC Standard 15-4: Wood Shingles

    R902

    UL UL LLC 333 Pfingsten Road Northbrook, IL 60062

    55A—2004: Materials for Built-Up Roof Coverings

    R905.9.2

  • CRSC § 5601.1.3 High 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

  • CRSC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text

    1909A.1.1, 1909A.1.2

    PCI 124—18: Specification for Fire Resistance of Precast/Prestressed Concrete

    722.1, 722.2.3.1

    PCI 128—19: Specification for Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Panels

    1903.2

    PTI Post-Tensioning Institute, 38800 Country Club Drive, Farmington Hills, MI 48331

    PTI DC10.5—19: Standard Requirements for Design and Analysis of Shallow Post-Tensioned Concrete Foundations on Expansive and Stable Soils

    1808.6.2

    PTI DC35.1—14: Recommendations for Prestressed Rock and Soil Anchors

    1810A.3.10.4, 1811A.2, 1812A.4, 1812A.5, 1810.3.10.4.1, 1811.2, 1812.4, 1812.5,1813.2

    RMI Rack Manufacturers Institute, 8720 Red Oak Boulevard, Suite 201, Charlotte, NC 28217

    ANSI MH16.1—2021: Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Storage Racks

    ANSI MH16.3—2021: Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Cantilevered Storage Racks

    2209.2

    SBCA Structural Building Components Association, 6300 Enterprise Lane, Madison, WI 53719

    ANSI/SBCA FS 100—2012(R2018): Standard Requirements for Wind Pressure Resistance of Foam Plastic Insulating Sheathing Used in Exterior Wall Covering Assemblies

    2603.10

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 35-39

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

    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

  • CRSC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

    12-3-7.2 Springs provided in the latch or on the security bars that are intended to move the security bars from the latched position shall be removed or disabled prior to the test.

    12-3-7.3 Prior to the test, the assembly shall be operated and reset a number of times to acquaint the operator with the system and its opening and reselling operation. On some systems, it may be necessary to slam, tap or otherwise carefully align the security bars in the latch to successfully reset the system into the closed position.

    12-3-7.4 In the event that the actuating mechanism or assembly does not operate as intended during each of the 10 attempts, the test assembly, mounting method, actuating motion and system resetting procedure shall be reviewed to determine a potential cause of failure. After correcting any identified problems, the set of 10 operations shall be repeated with no unsuccessful attempts.

    SECTION 12-3-8—MANUAL ACTUATION TEST

    12-3-8.1 Following the Operation Test, each of the two sample assemblies shall be operated five times, and the forces required to unlatch the system shall be measured and recorded. These forces shall not exceed the values indicated in Sections 12-3-8.2 through 12-3-8.4.

    12-3-8.2 A force gauge shall be used to apply the actuating force. The force shall be applied in the orientation anticipated by the design, using an appropriate force gauge and attachments, such as hooks, loops or probes. The gauge shall be capable of measuring the maximum force applied on each attempt. The force shall be applied in a location and fashion that is most likely to unlatch the actuator, and shall be allowed to range from a slow gradual application of force to a faster application of force of not less than 1 second in duration.

    12-3-8.2.1 The average force required to unlatch finger-actuated systems shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 10 pounds (44 N).

    12-3-8.2.2 The average force required to unlatch hand-actuated systems shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 10 pounds (44 N).

    12-3-8.2.3 The average force required to unlatch foot-actuated systems shall not exceed 15 pounds (66 N) over the five attempts. The force required to unlatch the system during any of the attempts shall not exceed 30 pounds (132 N).

    12-3-8.3 In lieu of complying with Section 12-3-8.2, foot-actuated systems designed to be operated by a kick shall successfully unlatch and disengage the latching mechanism each of five times when subjected to the following impact. The impact shall be applied by swinging a 25-pound (11.4 kg) weight on a 4-foot (1.2 m) pendulum from 10 inches (254 mm) away, measured horizontally. The point of impact on the foot actuator shall be at the bottom of the pendulum swing.

    6 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

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

    RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

Frequently asked questions

Do these CRSC requirements evaluate burglary resistance or how the device performs against an external attacker?

No. Chapter 12-3 explicitly does not evaluate resistance to external forced entry — it only covers the ability for interior manual actuation to permit occupant escape. § 12-3-1.4 and § 12-3-1.2.

If I have an automatic release (electrically actuated), is that allowed?

Yes, but any system with automatic actuation must also include a manual release that complies with the Chapter 12-3 manual-actuation requirements, and automatic failure must not disable the manual release. § 12-3-3.7.

How is the force measured for compliance?

Forces are measured with a force gauge in the orientation and manner anticipated by the design; five attempts are recorded and the average and single-attempt maxima compared to the limits in § 12-3-8.2. § 12-3-8.2 and § 12-3-8.1 describe the test method.

Can cables be used to connect the actuator and the latch?

Yes, but only where the force transmitted during normal operation is less than 1/10 of the manufacturer’s rated working tension/compression and where the cable design resists fraying and is properly secured. § 12-3-4.6.1–4.6.3.

What if the device is installed on a bedroom window used as a secondary escape?

Chapter 12-3 applies specifically to releasing systems installed to protect openings that the building code designates as secondary means of escape; the system must meet the same manual-actuation and force requirements in those applications. § 12-3-1.6 and § 12-3-3.3.

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