CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code
Key definitions: 'security bars', 'escape', and 'means of escape'
Security bars are bars/grilles placed on doors/windows; under the CRSC they may be used on required escape openings only if occupants can unlatch and open them from the inside without tools or keys, and the opened assembly provides the required clear opening (see §§ 12-3-2.4.2, 12-3-2.4.4, 12-3-2.4.6) .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Referenced Standards Code (CRSC) defines “escape” as occupant movement from inside a residential dwelling unit to a safe point outside during a fire emergency (§ 12-3-2.4.2 ). The CRSC treats “means of escape” as the building-code concept requiring sleeping and living areas to have at least a primary and a secondary route to the outside (§ 12-3-2.4.4 ). The term “security bars” (including “burglar bars”) is defined as metal or other bars, grilles, grates or similar barriers placed on doors/windows to deter forced entry; the CRSC’s releasing-system requirements apply where those bars are used on emergency escape openings (§ 12-3-2.4.6 ).
The single most important rule: security bars may be used on required escape openings only if occupants can readily release them from the inside to effect an escape (see § 12-3-2.4.6, § 12-3-2.4.2, § 12-3-2.4.4) .
Requirements in detail
Definitions (plain)
- Security bars — metal or similar bars, grilles, grates or other barriers intended to deter forced entry; when used on openings required for escape, they fall under the CRSC releasing-system requirements (§ 12-3-2.4.6) .
- Escape — movement of occupants from inside a dwelling unit to a safe point outside during an emergency fire condition (§ 12-3-2.4.2) .
- Means of escape — the code concept that normally requires a primary and secondary means (e.g., door plus an emergency window) to exit a dwelling to the outside (§ 12-3-2.4.4) .
How those definitions drive requirements
- When security bars are installed over emergency escape openings the releasing system must allow occupants to unlatch and open the bars from the inside without tools, keys, or special knowledge (see Assembly requirements such as § 12-3-3.3, § 12-3-3.4) .
- The releasing mechanism must unlatch the bars immediately when actuated and be operable under all lighting conditions, with intuitive motions and without two simultaneous forces (§ 12-3-3.3, § 12-3-3.8, § 12-3-3.9) .
- When open, the opening created must meet minimum clear-opening dimensions required for emergency escape (so the releasing system cannot leave a sub‑standard egress opening) (§ 12-3-3.10) .
Decision-relevant dimensions / values
| Decision factor | Required value / behavior | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Definition: Escape | Movement from interior to a safe point outside during a fire emergency | § 12-3-2.4.2 |
| Definition: Means of escape | Typically requires at least a primary and secondary means from sleeping/living spaces to outside | § 12-3-2.4.4 |
| Definition: Security bars | Includes bars/grilles/grates/etc. placed on doors/windows to deter forced entry | § 12-3-2.4.6 |
| Minimum clear opening when bars fully opened | Minimum clear area: 5.7 sq ft; width ≥ 20 in; height ≥ 24 in (measured parallel to plane of opening) | § 12-3-3.10 |
| Maximum sill height (related standard codes) | Bottom of clear opening ≤ 44 in above floor (applies to emergency openings in building/residential codes) | See Residential / Building Code R319 / 1031.3 |
| Openings / entrapment limitation | Openings in bars shall not admit a sphere 4 in (102 mm) in diameter | § 12-3-3.12 |
| Manual actuation motions allowed | Finger, hand, or single foot motions (1–2 distinct motions permitted for finger/hand actuated) | § 12-3-4.5.1–.2 |
(Each table item is drawn from CRSC releasing-system provisions and the related referenced code minima returned in the search.)
Exceptions & special cases
- The CRSC scope clarifies that these releasing-system requirements apply only to openings designated by the California Building Standards Code as the secondary means of escape for the living area; they are not intended for primary egress doors or nonresidential common egress paths (§ 12-3-1.6, § 12-3-1.7) .
- Some jurisdictions or the fire code may require exterior release devices for firefighter use; consult the local authority having jurisdiction and the Fire/Building Code provisions for exterior-release rules (Fire Code / Building Code references appear in the related code excerpts returned) .
- The CRSC does not evaluate a system’s resistance to forced entry nor its removal/opening from the exterior during rescue—those are outside the standard’s scope (see § 12-3-1.4 and § 12-3-1.5) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming any barred window is compliant: installing bars is only code-compliant when the required releasing system and clear-opening minima are met — check § 12-3-2.4.6 and § 12-3-3.10 .
- Relying on a keyed release or tool: the CRSC requires unlatching from the inside without tools, keys, or special knowledge (§ 12-3-3.3) .
- Forgetting the primary/secondary distinction: CRSC covers bars on secondary means of escape (e.g., emergency windows), not primary egress doors in many applications — see § 12-3-1.6 and § 12-3-1.7 .
- Overlooking maintenance/operability: the release mechanism must be maintained operable at all times — both CRSC and the Residential/Fire Code stress maintaining release mechanisms and escape openings .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A downstairs bedroom has an emergency egress window protected by security bars.
- Confirm the bars meet the definition of security bars (bars/grille over a window) — § 12-3-2.4.6 .
- The releasing system must allow interior occupants to unlatch and open the bars without keys or tools and with intuitive motions (e.g., a single lever or pull loop) — § 12-3-3.3, § 12-3-3.8 .
- Measure the window clear opening when the bars are released and opened: it must provide at least 5.7 sq ft clear area with width ≥ 20 in and height ≥ 24 in. If the assembled opening when the bars are open does not reach those minima, the barred assembly fails the releasing-system requirement (§ 12-3-3.10) .
- Example numbers: window clear opening = 22 in wide × 26 in high = 22/12 ft × 26/12 ft ≈ 1.833 ft × 2.167 ft ≈ 3.97 ft² < 5.7 ft² → NOT acceptable. The homeowner must either replace the window or remove/modify the bars so the opening when released meets 5.7 ft² (or comply with the grade-floor exception in the residential/building code if applicable) .
- Verify the security-bar openings do not admit a 4 in (102 mm) sphere and have no snagging projections and that the release is not spring-only dependent (see § 12-3-3.11 and § 12-3-3.12) .
If an installer cannot meet the required clear opening with the existing window and bars, options include replacing the window with a larger sized unit, removing bars from that opening, or providing an approved alternate means of escape that meets code.
Related provisions
- § 12-3-1.6 — Scope: products intended for installation on openings designated by building code as secondary means of escape .
- § 12-3-1.7 — Not intended for primary means of egress in many dwelling situations; limited scope statements .
- § 12-3-3.3 — System must immediately unlatch and be operable from inside without tools/keys .
- § 12-3-3.10 — Minimum clear opening provided by the assembly when fully opened (area, width, height) .
- § 12-3-3.11 — Construction: no upward-swing openings or snagging projections .
- § 12-3-3.12 — Openings must not admit a 4 in sphere (entrapment limit) .
- § 12-3-4.5 — Manual actuation descriptions (finger, hand, foot actuated) and allowed motions .
- See also Residential Code R319 and Building/Fire Code provisions on emergency escape dimensions, operation and maintenance of escape openings (R319 / 1031.x) for complementary requirements .
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
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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
SECTION 12-3-2—GENERAL
12-3-2.1 Components.
12-3-2.1.1 Except as indicated in Section 12-3-2.1.2, a component of a product covered shall comply with the requirements for that component.
12-3-2.1.2 A component need not comply with a specific requirement that: (a) Involves a feature or characteristic not needed in the application of the component in the product covered by these requirements, or (b) Is superseded by these requirements.
12-3-2.1.3 A component shall be used in accordance with its recognized rating established for the intended conditions of use.
12-3-2.1.4 Specific components are recognized as being incomplete in construction features or restricted in performance capabilities. Such components are intended for use only under limited conditions, such as certain temperatures not exceeding specific limits, and shall be used only under those specific conditions for which they have been recognized.
12-3-2.2 Units of measurement.
12-3-2.2.1 When a value for measurement is followed by a value in other units in parentheses, the first stated value is the requirement.
12-3-2.3 Installation instructions.
12-3-2.3.1 A copy of the operating and installation instructions or equivalent information is to be furnished with the samples submitted for investigation for use as a guide in the examination and test of the mechanism. For this purpose, a printed edition is not required.
12-3-2.4 Definitions.
12-3-2.4.1 Dwelling unit. A single unit, providing complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
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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
CRSC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of this code.
R319.2 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have minimum dimensions in accordance with Sections R319.2.1 through R319.2.4.
R319.2.1 Minimum size. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m [2] ).
Exception: The minimum net clear opening for grade-floor emergency escape and rescue openings shall be 5 square feet (0.465 m [2] ).
R319.2.2 Minimum dimensions. The minimum net clear opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20 inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be the result of normal operation of the opening.
R319.2.3 Maximum height from floor. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have the bottom of the clear opening not greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.
R319.2.4 Emergency escape and rescue openings under decks, porches and cantilevers. Emergency escape and rescue openings installed under decks, porches and cantilevers shall be fully openable and provide a path not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and 36 inches (914 mm) in width to a yard or court.
R319.3 Emergency escape and rescue doors. Where a door is provided as the required emergency escape and rescue opening, it shall be a side-hinged door or a sliding door.
R319.4 Area wells. An emergency escape and rescue opening where the bottom of the clear opening is below the adjacent grade shall be provided with an area well in accordance with Sections R319.4.1 through R319.4.4.
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BUILDING PLANNING
R319.4.1 Minimum size. The horizontal area of the area well shall be not less than 9 square feet (0.9 m [2] ), with a horizontal projection and width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm). The size of the area well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue opening to be fully opened.
Exception: The ladder or steps required by Section R319.4.2 shall be permitted to encroach not more than 6 inches (152 mm) into the required dimensions of the area well.
R319.4.2 Ladder and steps. Area wells with a vertical depth greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be equipped with an approved, permanently affixed ladder or steps. The ladder or steps shall not be obstructed by the emergency escape and rescue opening where the window or door is in the open position. Ladders or steps required by this section shall not be required to comply with Section R318.7.
CRSC § 12-3 Medium 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 § 18.6 Medium relevance — show source text
way. 5. Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 6. Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 7. Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 7.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 7.2. Two means of egress. 8. In Group R-2.2 occupancies a certified fire escape is acceptable as a secondary means of egress of existing buildings for this section of the code.
[BE] 1031.2.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings and any exit doors shall be maintained free of any obstructions other than those allowed by this section and shall be operational from inside the room without the use of keys or tools. Window-opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of Part 2.
Exception: Group R-1 occupancies provided with a monitored fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8 and designed in accordance with NFPA 13 may have openable windows permanently restricted to a maximum 4-inch (102 mm) open position.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §4.2] Labeling.
Burglar bars shall not be sold in California at wholesale or retail unless warning information as specified in California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1, Section 4.3 is provided either on the packaging or provided inside the packaging along with the burglar bars.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §4.3(a) through (c)] Warning Information.
(a) Warning information located on or in burglar bar packaging shall contain the following information: (1) Warning that the burglar bars are intended to deter or delay intruders, they are not intended to prevent entry. (2) A reprint of the following requirements from California Building Code, Part 2, Chapter 10: “Bars, grilles, grates or similar devices may be installed on emergency escape or rescue windows, doors or window wells or any required exit door, provided: 1. The devices are equipped with approved release mechanisms which are openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort; and 2. The building is equipped with smoke alarms installed in accordance with California Building Code, Part 2, Section 907.
CRSC § 4.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
R319.4.2.2 Steps. Steps shall have an inside width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm), a minimum tread depth of 5 inches (127 mm) and a maximum riser height of 18 inches (457 mm) for the full height of the area well.
R319.4.3 Drainage. Area wells shall be designed for proper drainage by connecting to the building’s foundation drainage system required by Section R405.1.
Exception: A drainage system for area wells is not required where the foundation is on well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils in accordance with the United Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, as detailed in Table R401.4.1(2).
R319.4.4 Bars, grilles, covers and screens. Where bars, grilles, covers, screens or similar devices are placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures or area wells that serve such openings, the minimum net clear opening size shall comply with Sections R319.2 through R319.2.2 and R319.4.1. Such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key or tool or force greater than that required for the normal operation of the escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of this code.
R319.5 Replacement windows for emergency escape and rescue openings. Replacement for emergency escape and rescue openings installed in buildings meeting the scope of this code shall be exempt from Sections R319.2 and R319.4.4, provided that the replacement window meets the following conditions:
- The replacement window is the manufacturer’s largest standard size window that will fit within the existing frame or existing rough opening. The replacement window shall be permitted to be of the same operating style as the existing window or a style that provides for an equal or greater window opening area than the existing window.
- The replacement window is not part of a change of occupancy.
R319.5.1 Window opening control device and fall protection device height. Window opening control devices or fall protection devices shall be located at a height in accordance with Section R319.1.1 or at as low a height as the device can be installed within the existing clear opening.
R319.6 Dwelling additions. Where dwelling unit additions contain sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in each new sleeping room. Where dwelling unit additions have basements, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in the new basement.
Exceptions:
- An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement that contains a sleeping room with an emergency escape and rescue opening.
- An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement where there is an emergency escape and rescue opening in an existing basement that is accessed from the new basement.
- An operable window complying with Section R319.7.1 shall be acceptable as an emergency escape and rescue opening.
CRSC § 7.62 Medium relevance — show source text
- For occupancies in Groups R-2 and R-3, within the interior conditioned space of individual dwelling units, where the open-sided walking surface is located not more than 25 feet (7.62 meters) measured vertically to the floor or walking surface below, required guards shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface. 3. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings. 4. The guard height in assembly seating areas shall comply with Section 1030.17 as applicable. 5. Along alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders, guards where the top rail serves as a handrail shall have height not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm), measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edge of the treads. 6. In Group F occupancies where exit access stairways serve fewer than three stories and such stairways are not open to the public, and where the top of the guard also serves as a handrail, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.
[BE] 1015.4 Opening limitations. Required guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter from the walking surface to the required guard height.
Exceptions:
- From a height of 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm), guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 [3] / 8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.
- The triangular openings at the open sides of a stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter.
- At elevated walking surfaces for access to and use of electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or equipment, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
- In areas that are not open to the public within occupancies in Group I-3, F, H or S, and for alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
- In assembly seating areas, guards required at the end of aisles in accordance with Section 1030.17.4 shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter up to a height of 26 inches (660 mm). From a height of 26 inches (660 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent walking surfaces, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter.
- Within individual dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies, guards on the open sides of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 [3] / 8 (111 mm) inches in diameter. 7. [SFM] In lifeguard towers not open to the public, guards shall not have openings which allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
CRSC § 18.6 Medium relevance — show source text
R319.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required. Basements, habitable attics, the room to which a sleeping loft is open, and every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall open directly into a public way, or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.
Exceptions [SFM]: 1. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 2. Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard, court or exterior egress balcony that opens to a public way. 3. Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 4. Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 5. Where the dwelling unit or townhouse unit is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section R309, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 5.1. One means of egress complying with Section R318 and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 5.2. Two means of egress complying with Section R318.
R319.1.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall be maintained free of any obstructions other than those allowed by this section and shall be operational from the inside of the room without the use of keys, tools or special knowledge. Window opening control devices and fall prevention devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening and shall be not more than 70 inches (178 cm) above the finished floor. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of this code.
R319.2 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have minimum dimensions in accordance with Sections R319.2.1 through R319.2.4.
R319.2.1 Minimum size. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m [2] ).
Exception: The minimum net clear opening for grade-floor emergency escape and rescue openings shall be 5 square feet (0.465 m [2] ).
R319.2.2 Minimum dimensions. The minimum net clear opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20 inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be the result of normal operation of the opening.
CRSC § 12-72 Medium 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||2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE ix
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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 § 1803.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: A drainage system for area wells is not required where the foundation is on well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils in accordance with the United Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, in accordance with Section 1803.5.1 of the Califor- nia Building Code .
[BE] 1031.6 Bars, grilles, covers and screens. Where bars, grilles, covers, screens or similar devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, or area wells that serve such openings, the minimum net clear opening size shall comply with Sections 1031.3 and 1031.5. Such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal operation of the escape and rescue opening.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 1032—MAINTENANCE OF THE MEANS OF EGRESS
1032.1 General. The means of egress for buildings or portions thereof shall be maintained in accordance with this section.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.11(a) through (d)] Exits, Aisles, Ramps, Corridors and Passageways.
(a) No person shall install, place or permit the installation or placement of any bed, chair, equipment, concession, turnstile, ticket office or anything whatsoever, in any manner which would block or obstruct the required width of any exit.
(b) No person shall install, place or permit the installation or placement of any combustible material or equipment in or exposed to any exit.
Exceptions: (1) Furniture or equipment constructed of wood or other material of similar combustibility may be permitted in an exit or exposed to an exit when approved by the enforcing agency. (2) When approved by the enforcing agency, combustible materials may be permitted in exit foyers and lobbies.
(c) No person shall install, place or permit the installation or placement of any storage material of any kind in any exit regardless of the required width of such exit.
Exception: Personal material located in metal lockers in Group B and E occupancies as defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.
(d) Aisles shall not be occupied by any person for whom seating is not available.
1032.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits and exit discharges shall be continuously maintained free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency where the building area served by the means of egress is occupied. An exit or exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with a means of egress.
1032.2.1 Security devices and egress locks. Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to approval of the fire code official. Security devices and locking arrangements in the means of egress that restrict, control, or delay egress shall be installed and maintained as required by this chapter.
1032.2.2 Fire escapes. Security enclosures, fences or screening for fire escape stairways shall be approved by the fire code official and shall be constructed such that they do not impede egress to the public way. Means shall be provided for emergency personnel to access the fire escape stair from the exterior of the enclosure.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep burglar bars on my bedroom escape window if they have a padlock on the outside?
No. The CRSC requires the releasing system be operable from the inside without the use of keys and specifically that the system be designed to prevent it from being locked in a closed position with a padlock or similar device (§ 12-3-3.3, § 12-3-3.6) .
What if my window, when the bars are opened, is narrower than 20 inches?
That assembly does not meet the CRSC minimum clear-opening width requirement; the code requires the opened assembly provide at least 20 in width, 24 in height and 5.7 sq ft clear area (subject to grade-floor exceptions in residential code) — see § 12-3-3.10 and R319 exceptions .
Are releasing systems allowed to use springs to unlatch?
The release mechanism shall not depend on springs to release the latch, although springs may assist operation; the system must unlatch reliably when actuated (§ 12-3-3.5) .
Who enforces whether a specific install is acceptable?
The local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) enforces Building and Fire Code compliance. CRSC requirements inform product design and acceptance; the AHJ will review installation compliance with Building/Fire Code and these releasing-system standards (§ 12-3-1.2 and local code references) .
If my house has a monitored sprinkler system, do window rules change?
Certain exceptions in the Building/Fire Code allow different treatments when approved automatic sprinklers are provided (see Building/Fire Code exceptions to emergency opening requirements) — consult those sections and your AHJ for project-specific application .
More in California Referenced Standards Code
- Administration and scope — CRSC Chapter 12 overview
- Air filter standards (Chapter 12‑71)
- Building and facility access / accessibility standards (Chapters 12‑11A, 12‑11B)
- Engineering regulations — quality and design of construction materials (12‑16 series)
- Exits and means of egress (Chapters 12‑10 series)
- Protective signaling systems and detectors (Chapters 12‑72‑1, ‑2, ‑3)
- Radiation shielding standards (Chapter 12‑31C)
- Referenced standards index / cross‑reference table (Part 12 listing of referenced standards)
- Releasing systems for security bars (egress-release standards)
- Standards for insulating materials (Chapter 12‑13)
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