Retrofit – Enhancing Accessibility with a Briton 1413 Outside Access Lever Installation in York
Recently, we completed an exciting retrofit project on a commercial unit’s fire escape door in York for a local engineering company. The client sought a reliable solution to enable external access to an existing fire escape door, which previously only allowed exit from inside the building. With functionality, safety, and quality in mind, we chose the Briton 1413 Outside Access Locking Unit Lever as the perfect addition.
Why the Briton 1413?
The Briton 1413 is widely regarded for its robust security and ease of use, making it ideal for busy commercial spaces. Specifically designed to retrofit onto existing fire doors, this lock ensures that the door remains secure from the outside while maintaining compliance with fire safety standards. The client wanted to utilize the door for convenient external access without compromising security, and this lock provided a straightforward solution.
Project Overview: Installation on a Fire Escape Door
1. Initial Assessment
Before installation, we conducted a thorough assessment of the fire escape door to determine compatibility with the Briton 1413 unit. With fire doors, safety compliance is crucial, so we checked that the door frame, materials, and door integrity met the necessary standards.
2. The Retrofit Process
Installing the Briton 1413 on an existing fire escape door is a careful process, as it requires precision to avoid any misalignment that might compromise security or door operation. Our first step was marking and drilling the precise mounting points for the lock on the exterior side. We aligned the lever mechanism with the internal panic bar to ensure it functioned seamlessly.
3. Securing and Testing the Lock
Once the lock was in place, we conducted several tests to ensure the lever engaged smoothly and didn’t interfere with the fire escape’s internal release mechanism. The Briton 1413 design allows the door to lock automatically when closed, preventing unauthorized access from the outside without restricting exit capability.
Results and Client Satisfaction
The engineering company was pleased with the final outcome, as this upgrade now allows their team controlled access from outside without altering the door’s original purpose as an emergency exit. This retrofit will support better access for their employees while maintaining the high security and fire safety standards required for commercial facilities.
Key Takeaways for Retrofitting Access Solutions on Fire Doors
For businesses looking to add outside access to their fire doors, it’s essential to choose equipment like the Briton 1413 that complies with both security and fire safety codes. Working with a professional installer ensures the unit fits and functions correctly, making the door a safer and more convenient asset for the organisation.
