CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

When do the releasing-system rules for security bars apply?

If bars or grilles are installed over a door or window that the building code requires as an emergency escape for a dwelling unit (for example a bedroom secondary escape), the CRSC releasing-system rules apply: the device must allow occupant-actuated interior release and meet the Chapter 12-3 scope and performance requirements. See §§ 12-3-1.1, 12-3-1.6, 12-3-1.7.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The releasing-system requirements apply to releasing systems for security bars (bars, grilles, mesh, glazing or similar) that are installed over doors and windows that are required for emergency escape from dwelling units — i.e., openings that serve as an escape route when occupants must get out during an emergency. See § 12-3-1.1 .
These products are specifically intended for installation in dwelling units to protect openings that the California Building Standards Code designates as a secondary means of escape from the living area; they are not intended for common-area egress or nonresidential egress routes. See § 12-3-1.6 and § 12-3-1.7 .

If the bar or grille is installed over a door or window that is required by the building code to provide an emergency escape from a dwelling unit, these releasing-system rules apply. See § 12-3-1.1, § 12-3-1.6, § 12-3-1.7.

Requirements in detail

1) Scope — when the rules are triggered

  • Applies when security devices are over an opening that is required for emergency escape from a dwelling unit (this is the defining trigger). § 12-3-1.1 .
  • Applies to devices intended for installation in dwelling units to protect openings that are designated as the secondary means of escape under the Building Code. § 12-3-1.6 .
  • Does NOT apply to devices intended for doors in nonresidential egress paths, the common egress path of multifamily units, or the primary means of egress in a single-family dwelling. § 12-3-1.7 .

2) What “security bars” means (definition)

  • Security bars (also called “burglar bars”) include metal or other bars, grilles, grates and similar barriers designed to provide security for doors and windows in dwelling units. § 12-3-2.4.6 .

3) Key installation / user-intended limits

  • The standard is focused on the releasing system for interior operation to allow escape when actuated by the occupant (i.e., the manual release from the interior). The standard's scope is the occupant-actuated releasing ability — not exterior forced-entry resistance or exterior removal by emergency responders. See § 12-3-1.1, § 12-3-1.4, § 12-3-1.5 .

Decision-relevant dimensions / values (quick reference table)

Decision question Key value / outcome Code Reference
Is the opening required for emergency escape from a dwelling unit? If YES, rules apply. § 12-3-1.1
Is the product intended for installation in a dwelling unit and protecting a Building Code–designated secondary escape opening? If YES, rules apply. § 12-3-1.6
Is the opening on a nonresidential egress path, common egress of multifamily, or the primary single-family egress? If YES, these releasing-system rules are not intended to apply. § 12-3-1.7
Does the standard evaluate forced-entry resistance or exterior removal by emergency personnel? No — it does not evaluate those. § 12-3-1.4, § 12-3-1.5
Who must be able to actuate the release? Occupant from inside the dwelling unit (manual activation). § 12-3-1.2

(For further product performance and sizing requirements — e.g., minimum clear opening, actuator mounting height, actuation forces — see related provisions listed below.)

Exceptions & special cases

  • The standard explicitly excludes use for doors located within nonresidential means of egress and common egress paths in multifamily buildings, and for the primary means of egress in single‑family homes. Such uses are outside the intended scope of Chapter 12-3. § 12-3-1.7 .
  • The standard does not assess the device’s resistance to an outside forced-entry attack or the ability for emergency personnel to open the device from the exterior; those concerns are out of scope. § 12-3-1.4, § 12-3-1.5 .
  • The rules are tied to openings that the Building Code requires for escape. If a bar is installed over an opening that is not code‑required for emergency escape (for example, an auxiliary window that is not a code-required escape opening), Chapter 12-3’s releasing-system rules are not the controlling standard — though other local or code requirements may still apply. § 12-3-1.1, § 12-3-1.6 .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming Chapter 12-3 covers all security bars everywhere. It is limited to bars over openings required for emergency escape in dwelling units (see § 12-3-1.1, § 12-3-1.6, § 12-3-1.7).
  • Treating these requirements as an exterior-security (burglar-resistance) standard — the CRSC explicitly does not evaluate forced-entry resistance or exterior removal by responders. § 12-3-1.4, § 12-3-1.5 .
  • Forgetting that the release must be occupant‑operable from the interior (manual actuation) — the standard is about occupant escape, not remote or exterior unlocking. § 12-3-1.2, § 12-3-3.3

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A landlord wants to install permanent metal bars over a bedroom window in a duplex. The bedroom window is required by the Residential Code to serve as a secondary means of escape (it is listed as an emergency escape opening for that bedroom).

Analysis:

  1. Is the opening required for emergency escape from a dwelling unit? — Yes. Therefore Chapter 12-3 applies. § 12-3-1.1 .
  2. Is the product intended for installation in a dwelling unit and to protect a Building Code–designated secondary means of escape? — Yes; Chapter 12-3 is intended for that use. § 12-3-1.6 .
  3. Is the window part of a common egress path or a nonresidential egress? — No; this is a private dwelling window. Chapter 12-3 is appropriate. § 12-3-1.7 .
    Conclusion: The releasing-system rules apply. The releasing system selected must comply with the Chapter requirements (manual interior release, packaged assembly or compliant instructions, markings, minimum clear opening when opened, actuation characteristics, etc.). See related sections for the specific performance and installation details (e.g., actuator mounting height in § 12-3-13.3, minimum clear opening in § 12-3-3.10, and manual-actuation forces in § 12-3-8.2).

Related provisions (useful to consult)

  • § 12-3-1.2 — Releasing system must be manually activated from the interior by an occupant.
  • § 12-3-1.4 — Standard does not evaluate forced-entry resistance.
  • § 12-3-1.5 — Does not evaluate exterior removal by emergency responders.
  • § 12-3-3.10 — Minimum clear opening required when fully opened (5.7 ft², width ≥ 20 in, height ≥ 24 in).
  • § 12-3-4.5 and § 12-3-8.2 — Manual actuator types and allowable actuation forces (finger/hand/foot limits).
  • § 12-3-9.1 — Endurance/cycle testing (250 cycles).
  • § 12-3-12.2 and § 12-3-13.3 — Markings and installation instructions (diagram on actuator; actuator mounting height ≤ 48 in).

Code references

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

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

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

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    12-1 ADMINISTRATION

    RESERVED

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    12-3 RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

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

    INTRODUCTION

    SECTION 12-3-1—SCOPE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • CRSC § 1009.12 High relevance — show source text

    Emergency exit and panic hardware.
    |SFM|Part 9, Section 1009.12| |Chapter 12-11A,
    12-11B|Detectable warning products and directional
    surfaces|DSA|Part 2, Sections 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247,
    11B-406.5.12, 11B-705, 11B-810.5.2| |Chapter 12-12|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-13|Standards for insulating material|CA/SFM|Part 2.5, Section R302.10.1
    Part 6, Section 110.8
    Part 9, Section 720, Table 721.1(1)
    Part 11, Section A5.504.4.8| |Chapter 12-16-1|California standard for earthquake-actuated
    automatic gas shutoff systems|DSA|Part 2, Chapters 16 and 16A
    Part 5, Section 1211.8| |Chapter 12-16-2|California standard for residential excess flow
    actuated automatic gas shutoff valves|DSA|Part 5, Section 1209.1| |Chapter 12-31C|Radiation shielding|DPH|Part 2, Section 3102C| |Chapter 12-71|Air filters|SFM|Part 4, Sections 401.2, 509.2.3, 509.2.3.4
    Part 6, Section 120.1| |Chapter 12-72-1|Protective signaling systems.
    Standard test procedures.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-2|Protective signaling systems. Single-and
    multiple-station fire alarm devices
    mechanically operated type.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-3|Protective signaling systems. Smoke detectors,
    combustion products type.|SFM||

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    12-1 ADMINISTRATION

    RESERVED

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    12-3 RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

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

    INTRODUCTION

    SECTION 12-3-1—SCOPE

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

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

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    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 Medium relevance — show source text

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

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

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

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-9—ENDURANCE TEST

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-10—ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE TEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-8—MANUAL ACTUATION TEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-9—ENDURANCE TEST

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-10—ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE TEST

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

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

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

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

    SECTION 12-3-11—ABUSE TEST

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

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

    MARKINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS

    SECTION 12-3-12—MARKINGS

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

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

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

    12-3-12.4 Adhesive-backed labels used to provide required markings shall be suitable for the application and shall comply with UL Standard 969, 1995 Edition.

  • CRSC § 12-3 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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    12-3-4.5 Manual actuators.

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

    manners:

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

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

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

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

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

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

    12-3-4.6 Cables and connectors.

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

  • CRSC § 12-16 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 § 12-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    12-3-13.2 When the releasing mechanism assembly is provided separately from the security bar assembly in accordance with Section 12-3-3.1, the instruction manual shall describe the compatible security bars that have been investigated and found suitable for use with the releasing assembly. Security bars shall be identified by the manufacturer’s name and model number and maximum dimensions.

    12-3-13.3 The installation instructions shall include directions on mounting the actuator inside the room at a height not exceeding 48 inches (1.2 m) from the finished floor.

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    12-4A LABORATORY ANIMAL QUARTERS STANDARDS

    STANDARD 12-4A-1

    DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES

    Authority: Sections 102, 208 and 25811.

    Reference: Sections 102, 208 and 436.5.

    LABORATORY ANIMAL QUARTERS

    Sec. 12-4A-101. Laboratory animal quarters shall comply with Chapter IV, “Guide for Care and Use of Laboratory Animals,” U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Publication Number 85-23, Revised 1985.

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    12-4-1 STAGE AND PLATFORMS

    SMOKE OR HEAT VENTILATORS

    STANDARD 12-4-1

    STATE FIRE MARSHAL

    SMOKE OR HEAT VENTILATORS

    Sec. 12-4-100.

    (a) Application. The minimum design, construction and performance standard set forth herein for stage and platform smoke or heat ventilators are those deemed necessary to establish conformance to the provisions of these regulations.

    (b) Scope. This standard covers ventilators and shutters designed to open under conditions of excessive smoke or heat to provide openings for the release to the atmosphere of accumulated smoke or heat.

    A smoke or heat ventilator covered by this standard consists of a prefabricated frame of metal or other noncombustible materials; a cover of noncombustible or plastic materials; an automatic releasing device; and the control rigging. The control rigging may include electrically operated units for normal opening and closing.

    (c) Tested and listed component parts. Component parts, devices, combinations of devices and electrical equipment which have been tested and listed by an approved testing agency for the intended purpose need not be individually retested. Such individually tested and listed component parts, devices and equipment shall be subjected to the performance standard tests to determine their suitability for use in the smoke or heat ventilator.

    (d) Alternate constructions. Ventilators having materials or forms of construction differing from this standard may be investigated and tested in accordance with these regulations, and if found to be substantially equivalent in performance may be given recognition for approval.

  • CRSC § 12-3 Medium 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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    RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS

    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 § 0.90 Medium relevance — show source text

    00|0.90|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    1× wood
    furringd|Minimum
    2× wood
    stud|No.10
    wood
    screw|1|24|4.00|0.90|DR|DR|DR|2.85|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    1× wood
    furringd|Minimum
    2× wood
    stud|1/4″
    lag screw|11/2|12|4.00|2.65|1.90|1.50|0.90|4.00|1.65|1.05|0.80|DR| |Minimum
    1× wood
    furringd|Minimum
    2× wood
    stud|1/4″
    lag screw|11/2|16|4.00|1.95|1.25|0.95|0.50|4.00|1.10|0.65|DR|DR| |Minimum
    1× wood
    furringd|Minimum
    2× wood
    stud|1/4″
    lag screw|11/2|24|4.00|1.10|0.65|DR|DR|3.25|0.50|DR|DR|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
    DR = Design Required.
    o.c. = On Center.
    a. Wood framing and furring shall be Spruce-pine-fir or any wood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater in accordance with AWC NDS.
    b. Nail fasteners shall comply with ASTM F1667, except nail length shall be permitted to exceed ASTM F1667 standard lengths.
    c. The thickness of wood structural panels complying with the specific gravity requirements of Note a shall be permitted to be included in satisfying the minimum required pene-
    tration into framing.
    d. Where the required cladding fastener penetration into wood material exceeds3/4 inch and is not more than 11/2 inches, a minimum 2× wood furring or an approved design shall
    be used.
    e. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 psi in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.
    f. Furring shall be spaced not more than 24 inches on center, in a vertical or horizontal orientation. In a vertical orientation, furring shall be located over wall studs and attached
    with the required fastener spacing. In a horizontal orientation, the indicated 8-inch and 12-inch fastener spacing in furring shall be achieved by use of two fasteners into studs
    at 16 inches and 24 inches on center, respectively.
    g. Cladding weight is the maximum weight of cladding materials in pounds per square foot of wall area. The 3 psf category typically applies to panel and lap siding materials; the
    11 psf category typically applies to conventional three-coat stucco of7/8-inch thickness; and 15 psf to 25 psf categories typically apply to adhered masonry veneers.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
    DR = Design Required.
    o.c. = On Center.
    a.

Frequently asked questions

When is a releasing system required to meet these Chapter 12-3 rules?

If the bars/grilles are over an opening that the Building Code requires for emergency escape from a dwelling unit (i.e., a secondary means of escape), then the releasing-system requirements apply. § 12-3-1.1, § 12-3-1.6.

Do these rules govern exterior security or forced-entry resistance?

No. The standard explicitly does not evaluate resistance to exterior forced entry or exterior removal by emergency personnel. § 12-3-1.4, § 12-3-1.5.

Can these releasing systems be used on common-area doors in apartment buildings?

No. Products covered by this standard are not intended for doors in common egress paths of multifamily dwellings or nonresidential egress paths. § 12-3-1.7.

Must the release be operable without tools or keys?

Yes — the system must allow occupants to operate the manual release from inside without tools, keys, or special knowledge. See § 12-3-3.3.

If I buy a releasing mechanism sold separately from the bars, is that allowed?

Yes, but the instruction manual must identify compatible bars (manufacturer/model and maximum dimensions) per § 12-3-13.2. Also see § 12-3-3.1.

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Exclusions and what the standard does NOT cover

Key definitions: 'security bars', 'escape', and 'means of escape'

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