CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

Material strength, galvanic considerations and corrosion protection

The CRSC requires that parts of security-bar release systems be strong enough to work reliably, that dissimilar metals not contact each other where galvanic corrosion could disable the release, and that ferrous parts be 300‑series stainless or protected by specified galvanizing, zinc or cadmium coatings, or two coats of outdoor paint (see **§ 12-3-4.1**, **§ 12-3-4.3**, **§ 12-3-4.4**) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The California Referenced Standards Code requires that materials used in releasing systems for security bars must have adequate mechanical strength to do their job (§ 12-3-4.1) and must be selected or treated so corrosion will not render the release mechanism inoperative (§ 12-3-4.3). For ferrous metal parts, the code mandates either 300 series stainless steel or specified corrosion protections (hot-dip galvanizing, specified zinc or cadmium coatings, or two coats of outdoor paint) (§ 12-3-4.4) .

The single most important rule: choose materials and coatings so the release mechanism remains operable — avoid dissimilar metals in contact where galvanic corrosion is likely, and protect ferrous parts as the code prescribes. § 12-3-4.3 and § 12-3-4.4 are the controlling rules.

Requirements in detail

1) Material strength — what to provide

  • The code requires adequate mechanical strength for the intended function (no numeric strength is specified). This is a performance statement — manufacturers or designers must demonstrate that chosen materials can sustain expected loads and service conditions (§ 12-3-4.1) .
  • Practical implication: document material selection and, where appropriate, provide test reports, calculations or manufacturer data showing the material meets service demands (wear, cyclic loading, impact during egress, etc.). The CRSC text itself does not give numeric stress or safety-factor values in § 12-3-4.1. .

2) Galvanic considerations — what is prohibited

  • Components constructed of dissimilar metals shall not be used where contact between them is likely to cause galvanic corrosion, and materials must reduce the chance the release mechanism will become inoperative from corrosion (§ 12-3-4.3) .
  • The code statement is prescriptive (avoid galvanically active metal contacts) but does not list acceptable/forbidden metal pairings or prescribe insulation methods — designers must apply corrosion-engineering best practices where the code is silent (see Exceptions & special cases below). .

3) Corrosion protection for ferrous parts — required options

The code gives explicit acceptable treatments for ferrous metal parts in releasing systems (§ 12-3-4.4) . Use one of the following:

Decision factor Acceptable material / protection Key dimension/value Code Reference
Preferred material (no coating needed) 300 series stainless steel — § 12-3-4.4
Hot-dip galvanization G60 or A60 hot-dipped galvanization minimum per designation (manufacturer/test marking) § 12-3-4.4
Electro/other zinc coating Zinc coating 0.0104 mm thick § 12-3-4.4
Cadmium coating Cadmium coating 0.0127 mm thick § 12-3-4.4
Paint system Two coats of organic outdoor paint per manufacturer’s outdoor-grade system § 12-3-4.4

Notes:

  • The CRSC lists these as alternate, acceptable protections for ferrous parts; it does not provide performance testing procedures for each option in this section (use referenced standards, shop practice, or testing to verify longevity). § 12-3-4.4 is the controlling provision for ferrous parts.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CRSC gives no numeric "mechanical strength" target in § 12-3-4.1; therefore product approval often relies on test reports or equivalency to listed materials elsewhere in the code. The code text does not specify required load tests — if a specific numeric requirement is needed for approvals, use the performance test clause or rely on listed/tested products (manufacturer test reports). .
  • § 12-3-4.3 prohibits using dissimilar metals where contact is likely to cause galvanic corrosion but does not define “dissimilar metals” or give allowable couples — designers must use corrosion engineering guidance (galvanic series, isolation, protective coatings) to demonstrate compliance. The code does not mandate sacrificial anodes or cathodic protection for these assemblies. .
  • For ferrous parts, multiple protection routes are allowed (stainless, galvanize, zinc/cadmium coating, or paint). The code does not rank one as superior; selection must consider environment (coastal, industrial) and expected service life. § 12-3-4.4 lists the choices but does not require additional validation testing in that clause. .
  • If a component’s failure (e.g., an O‑ring or gasket) will not affect the system’s compliance, polymeric exemptions may apply elsewhere in Chapter 12-3 (see § 12-3-4.2 for O‑rings/gaskets references) — but those are narrow exceptions and do not relieve corrosion protection where function is safety-critical. .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming “adequate mechanical strength” has a single numeric meaning — the code gives no number in § 12-3-4.1; you must justify strength by calculation, test data, or use of industry-listed components. .
  • Mixing metals (for example, carbon steel fastener in contact with aluminum housing) without insulating them — this creates galvanic cells and is explicitly disallowed where corrosion is likely (§ 12-3-4.3). .
  • Relying on very thin coatings or a single coat of paint in corrosive exposures — the code requires specific coating thicknesses or two coats of outdoor paint for ferrous parts as alternatives to stainless (§ 12-3-4.4); make sure the coating system meets that intent. .
  • Treating fasteners and small parts as exempt when their failure would disable the mechanism — CRSC treats “minor parts” exemptions in other chapters carefully; for releasing systems, corrosion of any part that can make the release inoperative must be avoided per § 12-3-4.3. .
  • Overlooking moving parts: other CRSC provisions require moving parts to show corrosion resistance (e.g., equivalence to 300 series stainless or pass salt-fog tests in related sections) — consider the whole assembly. See Related provisions below. .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A security-bar release assembly uses:

  • latch pin and bracket made from mild steel,
  • housing made of aluminum,
  • external environment: coastal (salt air).

Step 1 — Galvanic risk:

  • The code prohibits dissimilar metals in contact where galvanic corrosion is likely (§ 12-3-4.3). Mild steel in direct contact with aluminum in a coastal environment creates a high galvanic risk. You cannot leave them in direct contact. .

Step 2 — Options to comply (pick one): A) Replace ferrous parts with 300 series stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 316). This satisfies § 12-3-4.4 without additional coating. Result: compliant. .
B) If retaining steel parts, apply an approved protection per § 12-3-4.4: e.g., G60 hot-dip galvanization or zinc coating of 0.0104 mm (10.4 µm) or cadmium coating 0.0127 mm (12.7 µm) or two coats of outdoor paint. In a coastal environment, stainless (AISI 316) is typically preferred for longevity; a single paint system may fail sooner. § 12-3-4.4 lists these as acceptable protections. .

Step 3 — Fasteners and interfaces:

  • Avoid direct metal-to-metal contact between aluminum housing and any steel part by using an insulating washer or selecting compatible metal pairings (or make the steel parts stainless). The code requires that components "shall not be used in applications where contact between them is likely to cause galvanic corrosion" (§ 12-3-4.3) — so insulation or compatible metals are required. .

Numbers summary for this example:

  • If selecting zinc coating per the code, provide 0.0104 mm zinc thickness on ferrous parts or cadmium 0.0127 mm thickness, or use G60 hot-dip galvanization, or specify 300 series stainless steel for critical ferrous parts to comply. § 12-3-4.4 .

Related provisions (CRSC)

  • § 12-3-4.1 — Material mechanical strength requirement.
  • § 12-3-4.2 — Requirements for O‑rings, gaskets and polymeric materials (referenced UL standards).
  • § 12-3-4.3 — Galvanic corrosion prohibition and corrosion-function requirement (controlling).
  • § 12-3-4.4 — Required corrosion protection for ferrous metal parts (controlling).
  • § 12-3-3.5–3.12 — Design and operation requirements for releasing systems (actuation, clear openings, etc.) — relevant because corrosion or strength failures can conflict with these operational requirements.
  • Related construction-material corrosion/resistance language appears in other Part 12 standards for locks and latches; see construction-materials and corrosion resistance passages in SFM 12-10 (e.g., material strength, salt-fog test references) for additional context.

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

    (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.

    (e) Springs. The release mechanism shall not depend on springs to release or retract the door latch or latches, locking mechanism, dead bolt or vertical rods.

    (f) Dogging devices. Exit panic hardware mechanisms shall not be equipped with any locking or dogging device, set screw or other arrangement which can be used to prevent release of the door latch or latches, locking device or dead locking bolt when pressure is applied to the cross-bar.

    CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

    Sec. 12-10-303.

    (a) Strength. The materials used in the assembly of a releasing mechanism shall have mechanical strength equivalent to brass or bronze to perform their intended function.

    (b) Springs. Component springs used in the assembly of a releasing mechanism shall be of material having spring properties equivalent to stainless steel conforming to ASTM A313-67.

    (c) Corrosion resistance of moving parts. Moving parts in the releasing mechanism assembly shall have corrosion resistance equivalent to 300 series stainless steel, or shall show no visual signs of corrosion after being subjected to a salt fog atmosphere per ASTM B117 for a period of 120 hours.

    (d) Nonmoving parts. Nonmoving parts, cases and similar parts shall be of materials, or shall be coated to provide corrosion protection equivalent to 0.0005-inch-thick (0.01 mm) cadmium coated steel as determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM B117 for a period of not less than 16 hours.

    (e) Galvanic action. Coated or uncoated metals used in the assembly of releasing mechanisms shall not be used in combination such as to cause detrimental galvanic action which may adversely affect the function of any part of the assembly.

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  • CRSC § 12-10 High 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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.

    1. 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 § 12-10 High relevance — show source text

    (f) Dogging devices. Exit panic hardware mechanisms shall not be equipped with any locking or dogging device, set screw or other arrangement which can be used to prevent release of the door latch or latches, locking device or dead locking bolt when pressure is applied to the cross-bar.

    CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

    Sec. 12-10-303.

    (a) Strength. The materials used in the assembly of a releasing mechanism shall have mechanical strength equivalent to brass or bronze to perform their intended function.

    (b) Springs. Component springs used in the assembly of a releasing mechanism shall be of material having spring properties equivalent to stainless steel conforming to ASTM A313-67.

    (c) Corrosion resistance of moving parts. Moving parts in the releasing mechanism assembly shall have corrosion resistance equivalent to 300 series stainless steel, or shall show no visual signs of corrosion after being subjected to a salt fog atmosphere per ASTM B117 for a period of 120 hours.

    (d) Nonmoving parts. Nonmoving parts, cases and similar parts shall be of materials, or shall be coated to provide corrosion protection equivalent to 0.0005-inch-thick (0.01 mm) cadmium coated steel as determined by comparison in salt fog atmosphere per ASTM B117 for a period of not less than 16 hours.

    (e) Galvanic action. Coated or uncoated metals used in the assembly of releasing mechanisms shall not be used in combination such as to cause detrimental galvanic action which may adversely affect the function of any part of the assembly.

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    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.

  • 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 § 4.7 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. A glass panel for an opening having an area of more than 144 square inches (92 903 mm [2] ) or having any dimension greater than 12 inches (305 mm), shall be supported by a continuous groove not less than [3] / 16 inch (4.7 mm) deep along all four edges of the panel.
    2. A transparent material other than glass employed as a cover over an opening in an enclosure shall have mechanical strength equivalent to that of glass, not become a fire hazard or distort, or not become less transparent at the temperature to which it may be subjected under normal or abnormal service conditions.

    (d) Protection against corrosion.

    1. Except as indicated herein, iron and steel parts shall be suitably protected against corrosion by enameling, galvanizing, sherardizing, plating or other equivalent means.
    2. These requirements apply to all enclosures whether of sheet steel or cast iron, and to all springs and other parts upon which proper mechanical operation may depend. It does not apply to minor parts such as washers, screws, bolts and the like, if the failure of such unprotected parts would not be liable to result in a hazardous condition or adversely affect the operation of the unit. Parts made of stainless steel (properly polished or treated if necessary) do not require additional protection against corrosion. Bearing surfaces should be of such materials and design as to ensure against binding due to corrosion.

    (e) Insulating materials.

    1. Material for the mounting of current-carrying parts shall be porcelain, phenolic composition, cold-molded composition or material which is suitable for the particular application.
    2. Vulcanized fiber may be used for insulating bushings, washers, separators and barriers, but not as the sole support for uninsulated current-carrying parts of other than low-voltage circuits. Plastic materials may be used for the sole support of uninsulated live parts, if found to have adequate mechanical strength and rigidity, dielectric withstand, resistance to heat, flame propagation, arcing, creep and moisture, and other properties suitable for the application, without displaying a loss of these properties beyond the minimum acceptable level as a result of aging.
    3. Metal parts as described below need not comply with the requirement of Section 12-72-302 (d), Item 2. A. Adhesive attached metal foil markings, screws, handles, etc., which are located on the outside of the detector enclosure and isolated from electrical components or wiring by grounded metal parts so that they are not liable to become energized.
    4. A terminal block mounted on a metal surface which may be grounded shall be provided with an insulating barrier between the mounting surface and all live parts on the underside of the base which are not staked, upset, sealed or equivalently prevented from loosening so as to prevent such parts and the ends of replaceable terminal screws from coming in contact with the supporting surface.
    5. A countersunk part shall be covered with a waterproof insulating compound which will not melt at a temperature 15°C (27°F) higher than the maximum normal operating temperature of the assembly, and at not less than 65°C (149°F) in any case. The depth or thickness of sealing compound shall be not less than [1] / 8 inch (3 mm).

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    PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEMS

  • CRSC § 12-7 Medium 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).

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    EXITS

    (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 § 12-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    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.

    12-3-3.9 Manual actuation of the system shall not require two different forces to be applied at the same time, such as applying force to the actuator while also pushing on the bars. 12-3-3.10 When fully opened, the assembly shall provide a minimum clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.53 m [2] ) with the width not less than 20 inches (508 mm) and the height not less than 24 inches (610 mm), measured parallel to the plane of the opening.

    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.

  • CRSC § 7.1.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Underground plastic piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance or shall be insulated from any source of heat so as to prevent the heat from impairing the serviceability of the pipe. [NFPA 54:7.1.1.1, 7.1.1.2] 1310.1.1 Cover Requirements. Underground piping systems shall be installed with a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) of cover. The minimum cover shall be increased to 18 inches (457 mm) if external damage to the pipe or tubing from external forces is likely to result. Where a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) of cover cannot be provided, the piping shall be installed in conduit. [NFPA 54:7.1.2.1 – 7.1.2.1(B)]

    1310.1.2 Trenches. The trench shall be graded so that the pipe has a firm, substantially continuous bearing on the bottom of the trench. [NFPA 54:7.1.2.2]

    1310.1.2.1 Backfilling. Where flooding of the trench is done to consolidate the backfill, care shall be exer

    cised to see that the pipe is not floated from its firm bearing on the trench bottom. [NFPA 54:7.1.2.3]

    1310.1.3 Protection Against Corrosion. Steel pipe and steel tubing installed underground shall be installed in accordance with Section 1310.1.3.1 through Section 1310.1.3.9. [NFPA 54:7.1.3]

    1310.1.3.1 Zinc Coating. Zinc coating (galvanizing) shall not be deemed adequate protection for underground gas piping. [NFPA 54:7.1.3.1] 1310.1.3.2 Underground Piping. Underground piping shall comply with one or more of the following unless approved technical justification is provided to demonstrate that protection is unnecessary:

    (1) The piping shall be made of corrosion-resistant material that is suitable for the environment in

    which it will be installed.

    (2) Pipe shall have a factory-applied, electrically insulating coating. Fittings and joints between sections of coated pipe shall be coated in accordance with the coating manufacturer’s instructions.

    (3) The piping shall have a cathodic protection system installed, and the system shall be maintained in accordance with Section 1310.1.3.3 or Section 1310.1.3.6. [NFPA 54:7.1.3.2] 1310.1.3.3 Cathodic Protection. Cathodic protection systems shall be monitored by testing and the results shall be documented. The test results shall demonstrate one of the following:

    − (1) A pipe-to-soil voltage of 0.85 volts or more negative is produced, with reference to a saturated copper-copper sulfate half cell.

    − (2) A pipe-to-soil voltage of 0.78 volts or more negative is produced, with reference to a saturated KCl calomel half cell.

    − (3) A pipe-to-soil voltage of 0.80 volts or more negative is produced, with reference to a silversilver chloride half cell.

    (4) Compliance with a method described in Appendix D of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 192. [NFPA 54:7.1.3.3]

  • CRSC § 3.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    R905.3.7 Fasteners. Nails shall be corrosion resistant and not less than 11-gage [0.120 inch (3 mm)], [5] / 16 -inch (11 mm) head, and of sufficient length to penetrate the roof deck not less than [3] / 4 inch (19 mm) or through the thickness of the roof deck, whichever is less. Attaching wire for clay or concrete tile shall not be smaller than 0.083 inch (2 mm). Perimeter fastening areas include three tile courses but not less than 36 inches (914 mm) from either side of hips or ridges and edges of eaves and gable rakes.

    R905.3.8 Application. Tile shall be applied in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer’s installation instructions, based on the following:

    1. Climatic conditions.

    2. Roof slope.

    3. Underlayment system.

    4. Type of tile being installed.

    Clay and concrete roof tiles shall be fastened in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Perimeter tiles shall be fastened with not less than one fastener per tile. Tiles with installed weight less than 9 pounds per square foot (0.4 kg/m [2] ) require not less than one fastener per tile regardless of roof slope. Clay and concrete roof tile attachment shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions where applied in areas where the ultimate design wind speed exceeds 130 miles per hour (58 m/s) and on buildings where the roof is located more than 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade. In areas subject to snow, not less than two fasteners per tile are required. In other areas, clay and concrete roof tiles shall be attached in accordance with Table R905.3.8.

    TABLE R905.3.8—CLAY AND CONCRETE TILE ATTACHMENT Col2 Col3
    ** SHEATHING** ** ROOF SLOPE** ** NUMBER OF FASTENERS**
    Solid without battens All One per tile
    Spaced or solid with battens Slope < 5:12 Fasteners not required
    Spaced sheathing without battens 5:12 ≤ slope < 12:12 One per tile/every other row
    Spaced sheathing without battens 12:12 ≤ slope < 24:12 One per tile

    R905.3.9 Flashing. At the juncture of roof vertical surfaces, flashing and counterflashing shall be provided in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer’s installation instructions and, where of metal, shall be not less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet gage) corrosion-resistant metal. The valley flashing shall extend not less than 11 inches (279 mm) from the centerline each way and have a splash diverter rib not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in height at the flow line formed as part of the flashing. Sections of flashing shall have an end lap of not less than 4 inches (102 mm). For roof slopes of 3 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) and greater, valley flashing shall have a 36-inch-wide (914 mm) underlayment of one layer of Type I underlayment running the full length of the valley, in addition to other required underlayment.

  • CRSC § 12-16 Medium relevance — show source text

    CHAPTER 12-16-1 ENGINEERING REGULATIONS—QUALITY

    AND DESIGN OF THE MATERIALS OF

    CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

    CHAPTER 12-16-2 ENGINEERING REGULATIONS—QUALITY

    AND DESIGN OF THE MATERIALS OF

    CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

    CHAPTER 12-31C RADIATION SHIELDING STANDARDS . . 105

    CHAPTER 12-71 AIR FILTERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

    CHAPTER 12-72-1 PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEMS . . . 109

    CHAPTER 12-72-2 PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEMS . . . 123

    CHAPTER 12-72-3 PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEMS . . . 133

    HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

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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.
  • CRSC § 12-7 Medium relevance — show source text

    C. At end of test include amount of drop out, condition of fasteners, sag, etc. 4. Report appearance of the unexposed face:

    A. Every 15 minutes; B. At any noticeable development including cracking, smoking, buckling, giving details and time; and

    C. At end of test.

    1. Report time of failure by:

    A. Temperature rise; B. Failure to carry load; and C. Passage of flame-heat-smoke. 6. If hose stream is required, repeat necessary parts of Items 3 and 5. If failure occurs in hose stream test, describe.

    (g) Comments by testing engineer.

    1. Included shall be a statement concerning construction being representative of field construction. If construction does not represent typical field construction, all deviations shall be noted.

    2. If construction is unsymmetrical, clearly indicate face exposed to fire.

    3. Fire test.

    (h) Summary of results. Shall include:

    1. Endurance time.

    2. Nature of failure.

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    FIRE-RESISTIVE STANDARDS

    1. Hose stream results.

    (i) Pictures. Pictures shall be provided as necessary to clarify and show what cannot be covered in the report. Pictures shall include:

    1. Assembly in construction with closeups of details supplementing the report.
    2. Exposed face prior to test.
    3. Unexposed face at start of endurance test.
    4. Unexposed face at end of fire endurance test.
    5. Exposed face at end of fire endurance test.
    6. If hose stream test is required, repeat Items 1 through 5.
    TABLE SFM 12-7-1A—CONDITIONS FOR HOSE STREAM TEST Col2 Col3
    WATER PRESSURE AT BASE OF NOZZLE
    (POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH)    		 DURATION OF APPLICATION,
    MINUTES PER 100 SQUARE FEET OF EXPOSED
    AREA
    4 hours and over 45 5
    2 hours and over, if less than 4 30 21/2
    11/2 hours and over, if less than 2 30 11/2
    1 hour and over, if less than 11/2 30 1
    Less than 1 hour, if desired 30 1
    For SI: 1 square foot = 92 903 mm2 For SI: 1 square foot = 92 903 mm2 For SI: 1 square foot = 92 903 mm2

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    12-7-2 FIRE-RESISTIVE STANDARDS

    RESERVED

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  • CRSC § 12-8 Medium relevance — show source text

    (b) Materials intended for application to a wood surface are to be applied to a substrate made of 1 inch by 4 inches (25 mm by 101 mm) nominal “C” and better VG Douglas fir flooring (FSC 70 to 90) or to other species for which the surface burning characteristic is to be measured.

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    GUIDE TO MOUNTING TECHNIQUES FOR WALL AND CEILING INTERIOR FINISH MATERIAL

    (c) Coating materials intended for application to particular combustible surfaces, but not wood, are to be applied to the specific surface for which they are intended. The coating material and combustible material are to be attached to the substrate board as specified in Section 12-8-1B.1 (d).

    (d) Coating materials intended only for field applications to nonflammable surfaces are to be applied to 0.5 in calcium silicate board.

    WALL COVERING MATERIAL

    Sec. 12-8-1B.6. Wall coverings such as vinyl coatings, wallpaper, etc., of various types are to be mounted on 0.625-inch (16 mm) gypsum wallboard or on the actual substrate to which they are to be applied, using the adhesive and application technique specified by the manufacturer.

    FIGURE 12-8-1B-1—TYPICAL STEEL FRAME SUPPORT SYSTEM

    FIGURE 12-8-1B-2—MATERIAL FASTENING TECHNIQUE

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    GUIDE TO MOUNTING TECHNIQUES FOR WALL AND CEILING INTERIOR FINISH MATERIAL

    FIGURE 12-8-1B-3—TYPICAL MOUNTING TECHNIQUE FOR RIGID WALL MATERIALS

    Note: When required, additional fasteners may be used to hold up the specimen flush to the wall.

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    GUIDE TO MOUNTING TECHNIQUES FOR WALL AND CEILING INTERIOR FINISH MATERIAL

    FIGURE 12-8-1B-4—TYPICAL MOUNTING TECHNIQUE FOR FLEXIBLE WALL MATERIALS

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    GUIDE TO MOUNTING TECHNIQUES FOR WALL AND CEILING INTERIOR FINISH MATERIAL

    FIGURE 12-8-1B-5—TYPICAL MOUNTING TECHNIQUE FOR CEILING MATERIALS

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    POWER-OPERATED EXIT DOORS

    STANDARD 12-10-1

    STATE FIRE MARSHAL

    SCOPE

    Sec. 12-10-100.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rely on a single coat of painted metal if it’s an exterior part?

No. For ferrous parts the CRSC explicitly allows two coats of organic outdoor paint as one acceptable protection route, but environmental severity matters. The code lists this option in § 12-3-4.4; in aggressive (coastal/industrial) environments stainless or galvanizing is usually the more durable choice.

Does the code define "dissimilar metals" or list prohibited metal pairings?

No. § 12-3-4.3 prohibits use of dissimilar metals where galvanic corrosion is likely but does not define specific pairings. You must apply corrosion-engineering judgment (galvanic series, separation/insulation, coatings) to show compliance.

Are numerical mechanical-strength values specified?

No. § 12-3-4.1 requires “adequate mechanical strength” but provides no numeric stress or factor-of-safety values; acceptability is shown via test data, listed products, or engineering justification.

If I use cadmium plating, what thickness is required?

The code lists 0.0127 mm cadmium coating as an acceptable option for ferrous parts under § 12-3-4.4. Ensure the coating process and adhesion meet that nominal thickness and any applicable testing or listing requirements.

If a small screw corrodes, does that violate the rules?

If the screw’s failure could render the release mechanism inoperative, then yes — § 12-3-4.3 requires materials be selected to reduce the likelihood of corrosion making the release inoperative. The code focuses on function, not part size.

Where can I find referenced testing for polymeric seals?

The CRSC references UL standards for O‑rings, gaskets and polymeric materials in § 12-3-4.2 (UL 157; UL 746C) — follow those referenced standards where applicable.

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