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Escape and rescue routes – on the safe side with GU group

Peoples' lives depend on the quality of escape and rescue route systems. GU group takes this responsibility seriously: by delivering comprehensive escape door system solutions which go far beyond just satisfying the relevant standards. This gives architects and planners certainty and peace of mind – from the design stage through to the finished building.

Systematic escape route security

Maximum security of these systems can only be ensured if all components have been harmonised individually with the building situations and work perfectly together. This is why the GU group offers one-stop comprehensive solutions: from one-off components through to complex complete systems.

Escape door locks – Panic functions of the panic locks from the GU Group
The videos show you the differences, but also the handling of the individual panic functions.
In addition, you will learn which panic function is applicable for which building situation by means of concrete application examples.

Large-capacity revolving door approved as an escape door

Impressive prelude for a public building: the GGR and GRA-F large-capacity revolving doors combine elegant optics with maximum escape route widths: without requiring any separate escape door.

  • Type-tested revolving door with escape route function

    In large public buildings the role of revolving doors is to provide an imposing and elegant prelude. GU group combines elegant optics while maximising escape route widths: the GGR and GRA-F type-tested revolving doors are approved for use in escape and rescue routes.

    Elegant, energy-saving and effective: Whether hotels, banks, insurance companies or airports – revolving doors give buildings an impressive entrance without draughts, and are also suitable for a high footfall. Recommended, if the attractive architecture should remain free from additional escape doors, as is the case with the fully automatic GRA-F and GGR revolving doors. These complete solutions from the GU group are approved for use in escape and rescue routes and offer secure closing outside of opening hours. The wide range of revolving doors from the GU group provides architects and planners with customised entrance solutions. Irrespective of the variant, you can rely on TÜV type-tested quality to DIN 18650/EN 16005.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Suitable for use in escape routes: eliminates the need for separate escape doors

    - Consultation, planning, manufacturing and assembly competence

    - Type-tested by TÜV in accordance with DIN 18650 and EN 16005

    - Comprehensive range of revolving doors with 2400 – 6200 mm diameter for escape route widths 1000 – 3420 mm

    - Higher degree of prefabrication, for short assembly times at the construction site

  • Functional principle

    GGR revolving door for large diameters – – normal mode: In normal mode the leaves are fixed by electromagnets, to prevent them opening accidentally if they are bumped or subject to wind loads. The leaves can be swung outwards to provide an opening in the summer, for ventilation purposes or to allow long objects to pass through.

    GRA-F revolving door for smaller diameters – normal mode: The GRA-F is used for diameters smaller than 2.4 m. The folding mechanism of the turnstile construction allows the leaves to be repositioned to open up the building in the summer, for ventilation purposes or to allow longer objects to be passed through.

    GGR revolving door for large diameters – escape situation: Irrespective of whether the door is a 3 or 4-leaf model: following the emergency release the leaves can easily be folded back to open the escape route. This allows a large number of people to reach the open air within a short space of time.

    GRA-F revolving door for smaller diameters – escape situation: The GRA-F also allows the building occupants to escape safely when the diameter of the revolving door is less than 2.4 m safe escape: the leaves can be fully folded back thus ensuring that the frequently prescribed minimum width of 1 m is achieved.

HM-F FT escape route sliding door

The first sliding door also to be approved as an escape door in the locked condition: in nighttime mode the HM-F FT escape route sliding door becomes a swing door with escape door security.

  • How a sliding door becomes a swing door

    Sliding doors are used as barrier-free entrances for shopping centres, hotels and airports as well as hospitals, retirement homes and homes for the disabled. When combined with the appropriate technical equipment they can be used in escape routes in day mode. Up till now, sliding doors were not approved as escape doors when locked in nighttime mode. The GU group offers the first sliding door also to be approved as an escape door in the locked condition: In nighttime mode, the sliding door becomes a swing door with escape door security. The escape route sliding door HM-F FT therefore guarantees the availability of rescue routes while also securely closing the building – all in one door element without having to install another escape door. This gives architects and planners more freedom when designing prestigious entrances that must comply with the AutSchR (German directive governing automatic sliding doors in rescue routes), EltVTR (German directive governing electrical locking systems on doors in escape routes), and also DIN 18650 and EN 16005.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Sliding door during the day, swing door with escape door security in nighttime mode

    - No separate escape door required

    - Complies with AutSchR (German directive governing automatic sliding doors in rescue routes), EltVTR (German directive governing electrical locking systems on doors in escape routes), DIN 18650 and EN 16005

    - Provides planning certainty as the consent of the building supervisory authority is not required in individual cases

  • Functional principle

    Automatic/Exit operating mode: The movement sensors are active in Automatic or Exit operating mode. The door opens automatically when approached. Redundancy guarantees that the sliding door opens automatically in the escape direction.

    Off/Night operating mode: The sliding door becomes a swing door with escape door security. The door is locked and the movement sensors are inactive – the door therefore no longer opens when approached. The sliding door is secured against being pushed open via the integrated sliding door locking system and against break-out by escape door strikes in the pivot hardware.

    Off/Night operating mode – authorised access: The door can be unlocked by authorised persons via access control or push-buttons on the inside and accessed as a sliding door. Following access, the door locks automatically.

    Off/Night operating mode – emergency: If the emergency push-button is pressed, or if triggered via the building control system, the escape door strikes are released. The side-hung panels can also be pushed open in the event of a power failure or in a panic situation.

Electrically-locking Touch Bar EVT

For all modern panic doors: the electrically-locking Touch Bar EVT is an innovative locking system characterised by a reduction in the number of individual components and intuitive operation. The locking element is integrated into the Touch Bar so it cannot be operated in the secure condition.

  • Intuitive escape door control

    As a source of ideas for architects and planners, GU group is always providing new opportunities in this respect: the electrically-locking Touch Bar EVT is an innovative locking system which is perfectly suited for all modern panic doors. The EVT combines panic hardware and escape door locking into one system thus reducing the number of individual components. The integrated LED indicator in the Touch Bar also makes intuitive operation possible.

    Fewer individual components, more operating comfort: escape doors in public buildings such as concert halls and trade fairs, airports and hotels should only be used in emergencies. The electrically-locking Touch Bar EVT effectively prevents misuse. As the primary locking system it integrates the locking elements into the panic hardware thus reducing the number of individual components. Under safe conditions the door cannot be opened, if a hazardous situation arises it can be quickly and safely released via the emergency push-button of the escape door control system. An additional technical and aesthetic benefit is the integrated LED indicator that clearly signals the "locked" or "unlocked" status. This makes the EVT suitable for all modern panic doors.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Integration of lock element in the panic hardware

    - Fast and safe opening of door in escape situations

    - Intuitive operation thanks to unique LED signalling

  • Functional principle

    Locked condition: In the locked condition, the door is secured to prevent damage due to unauthorised opening attempts. The optional self-locking feature of the panic lock is established automatically by the insurance-compliant locking system.

    Escape situation: In dangerous situations, the door can be released via the emergency push-button of the FTNT escape door control unit by anyone at any time.

    Intuitive operation: The integrated LED indicator lights up red or green to clearly signal the "locked" or "unlocked" status.

    Unobstructed escape route: Easy opening, and therefore fast and safe escape from the building, also guaranteed with multi-point locking or heavy doors.

EVP electrically-locking panic lock

Specially for 1-leaf emergency exit and panic doors: the EVP electrically-locking panic lock is a compact solution which combines a self-locking panic lock with electric escape door locking.

  • Plan and retrofit 1-leaf panic doors cost-effectively

    GU group specially developed the EVP electrically-locking panic lock for 1-leaf emergency exit and panic doors. The combination of self-locking panic lock and electric escape door locking is a cost-effective compact solution that can significantly reduce planning overheads and save time. The product does not detract from the appearance of the architecture and saves useable space due to the reduced number of system components and concealed installation.

    The logical compact solution: Concealed installation for emphasis on aesthetics: the EVP electrically-locking panic lock offers several benefits at once when planning and installing 1-leaf escape doors: the compact solution which combines self-locking panic lock and electric escape door locking reduces the number of individual components and therefore represents a visually appealing solution. During installation, the wiring is routed exclusively in the door frame – additional cutouts outside the lock area are no longer required.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Self-locking: always securely locked

    - Compact: reduces the number of system components

    - Lock case with DIN dimensions: can be used in all situations, also with smoke and fire protection doors.

    - Optimum positioning of lock

  • Functional principle

    Controlled use: The automatic latchbolt ensures that the door is securely locked – also in the event of a power failure. It is not necessary to close the door manually.

    Unlocking: The FTNT AP escape door control unit monitors the door. The door is securely released via the integrated emergency push-button.

    Escape situation: Once released, the door can be easily opened. This allows people to quickly flee the building.

    Escape door control unit FTNT AP

    In the escape door package, the EVP electrically-locking panic lock is combined with the FTNT AP escape door control unit and can be networked via the BKS-NET door bus interface. Featuring an innovative signalling concept and integrated emergency push-button, the FTNT AP monitors the door and releases it in emergencies – automatically or by manual control. Compared to other systems, FTNT AP escape door control unit is also especially compact.

    EVP electrically-locking panic lock

    The compact combination of self-locking panic lock and electric escape door locking – approved for 1-leaf emergency exit doors to EN 179 and panic doors to EN 1125. Suitable for all BKS mortise locks in narrow stile, timber and steel doors. The panic lock is also available as multi-point lock to increase burglar protection.

Emergency exit device to EN 179

Specially for areas not accessible to the public: the tested and approved unit comprising panic lock and door hardware effortlessly satisfied the standard requirements of EN 179.

  • The escape door solution for non-public areas

    Tested safety: Buildings or parts of buildings that are not open to the public, such as private housing facilities, offices or classrooms in schools, are equipped with emergency exit devices according to EN 179. This standard prescribes that escape routes must be easily released. However, the standard itself has rigorous security requirements. The lock, hardware and fixing accessories must only be used if they have been tested as one unit. With a perfectly harmonised and approved combination of panic lock and door hardware, the GU group satisfies this demand and, in terms of security, goes far beyond the standard requirements.

    Self-locking panic locks: Security from the inside and outside – round the clock: the self-locking panic locks allow the door to be opened in the escape direction without a key. They also prevent unauthorised access against the escape direction.

    Overhead door closer (OTS 735, 2-leaf OTS 735 SRI): The aesthetically sophisticated overhead door closers with slide rail are, thanks to their flexible adjustment options, the right solution for every leaf type, width and weight.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Safe escape is always guaranteed

    - Lock, door hardware and fixing accessories tested as unit to EN 179

    - Versatile due to wide range of versions

    - Extremely compact overhead door closer, available in al colours and in stainless steel

    - Simplified assembly and storage of overhead door closers owing to modular principle

  • Functional principle

    System solution as standard: The simplest system solution for escape doors is a door with a panic lock.

    Security as standard: Anybody can flee safely at any time: the panic lock also ensures even when the door is locked that the door can always be opened in the escape direction – with absolutely no key required.

    Rich variety of versions as standard: As market leader in the area of panic locks the GU group has a wide variety of versions at its disposal and the right solution for every application – whether 1-leaf or 2-leaf door, whether self-locking, motor-driven as version with remote-controlled lock or as multi-point lock.

Barrier-free fire and smoke protection doors

Important aspect of preventative fire safety concept: natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems conduct combustion gases, dangerous oxides and thermal energy into the open air. Fire and smoke protection doors prevent the spread of smoke and fire. As certified smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system solutions they can be adapted precisely to the individual building situation thus ensuring that the escape and rescue routes remain smoke-free.

  • Automatic swing-door drives

    Fire and smoke protection doors close automatically to prevent the spread of smoke and fire. During normal operation and in escape situations they must not cause an obstruction. The automatic swing-door drives of the GU group satisfy both requirements: they guarantee that the doors close automatically while offering comfort and barrier freedom.

    The GU group automatic revolving door drives ensure secure closure yet allow comfortable access via the radar motion sensor, push-button or access control system. Approved panic locks and a touch bar guarantee that an unobstructed escape route can always be made available. Entrance doors in the facade can also make use of the benefits of the swing-door drive: when combined with a multi-point lock, burglar protection and escape route safety are equally possible.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Automation of fire and smoke protection doors

    - Outer doors with burglar protection can be automated

    - Escape route safety is guaranteed

    - All components from one source

  • Escape routes without obstacles

    Motor-driven lock of series 19

    The 19 series motor-driven lock is a self-locking system with panic function and is suited for use in fire protection, smoke protection and escape doors. Mechanical unlocking is possible at any time using a key and lever handle or push bar.

    Swing door drive DTN 80

    Fire and smoke protection doors must close securely and automatically in the event of a fire. However, a closed or difficult to open door is an obstacle. This is where swing-door drives are used, which open and close automatically, thus ensuring freedom of movement and security. The DTN 80 swing-door drive has a patented double-spring system. The second spring assembly activates just before the door reaches closing position – in other words, exactly when a higher closing force is required. This means that the door is guaranteed to close quietly and completely, even under difficult construction conditions which could include draught, excessive pressure or a multi-point lock system.

Tested and certified system solutions for smoke and heat exhaust ventilation

Secure escape doors are only one aspect of efficient escape and rescue route systems. Efficient smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems are equally important – as fire and the associated build up of heat and smoke represents the greatest danger to persons and buildings. GU group offers complete SHEV systems as a one-stop service thus simplifying the planning and implementation according to the standards an integral part of the preventative fire protection concept for smoke-free escape and rescue routes.

  • The complete SHEV system as a one-stop service

    The prerequisite for this is the perfect functioning of all system components. As is the case with the natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilation units of the GU group, the tested system solutions are precisely harmonised and adapted to the individual building situation. In addition to smoke exhaust and ventilation solutions for stairwells, GU group also offers intelligent drive and control systems for large projects, such as sports halls, foyers and shopping centres. In this regard architects can rely on comprehensive and competent planning.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Tested comprehensive solutions for maximum safety

    - Individual solutions for different building situations

    - All-encompassing expert planning of overall SHEV system

  • Functional principle

    Smoke generation without smoke and heat exhaust ventilation: If smoke and heat is not removed, the resulting accumulation of combustion gases and dangerous oxides put the health of the building occupants severely at risk. In addition, an excessive build up of heat can block emergency exits and escape routes and in the worst case cause the building to collapse.

    Smoke emission with smoke and heat exhaust ventilation: A smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system removes smoke and heat by drawing it upwards. A low-smoke layer forms above the floor through which fleeing building occupants and rescue workers can move. This also reduces damage to the building by heat.

    Controlled extraction: The removal of smoke is based on the principle of thermal uplift: supply air openings in the wall and exhaust air openings in the upper part of the wall or ceiling area ensure that smoke is removed in a reliable and controlled manner.

    SHEV air supply – ELTRAL TA 60 door drive: Ensuring reliable functionality of smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems: with the ELTRAL TA 60 door drive, doors in entrance areas can also be used as SHEV air supply.

Monitor and control escape and rescue routes

Control and monitor escape doors centrally: depending on the requirements of the building the system can be used to manage doors centrally or is seamlessly integrated into the overall building management.

  • From central door management through to building management system

    Escape and rescue routes are not independent systems. They are for example linked to fire alarm systems, access control systems or the building control system. This is why GU group developed the GEMOS system: tailored to the requirements of the building, the system is used for central door management, or is seamlessly integrated via interfaces into the overall building management.

    Centrally controlled, flexibly networked: escape door security and burglar protection, ventilation and fire protection, entrance, thoroughfare and exit: the tasks performed by doors are many and varied. With GEMOS, GU group ensures that these tasks can easily be managed and controlled. The management platform can be flexibly adapted to the building situation and therefore offers intelligent solutions from door management through to integration into the overall building management. The user-friendly interface also ensures straightforward and safe operation of complex safety-relevant facilities.

    Advantages at a glance

    - Central monitoring and control of escape doors

    - Integration in building management possible

    - Individually adapted to the size and purpose of the building

    - Intelligent alarm management

  • Functional principle

    Central escape door monitoring

    All door statuses can be determined at a glance and managed in coordination with other systems such as fire alarm systems or access control – both individually or as a complete system.

    No additional software: all operating tasks are carried out via individually modified web interfaces in MS Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. No additional software is therefore required at the workstations.

    Intuitive operation: the user-friendly interface ensures straightforward handling and makes statuses such as alarms, faults and messages clearly understandable.

    Appropriate to situation: Different operating modes can be selected in GEMOS for all building systems: they can for example be synchronously switched to day mode, nighttime mode or alarm at the push of a button.

Building legislation requirements

In Germany, fundamental building legislation requirements are described in the Model Building Code (MBO). The requirements of building legislation are specified in the state Building Codes (LBO) and supplementary special building regulations, e.g. for kindergartens, working and business premises, administrative buildings and meeting places.

The most important requirements focus on the following questions:

  • How must it be possible to open doors in rescue routes?
  • In which direction must doors open in rescue routes?
  • How wide and how high must doors in rescue routes be?

Standards and directives for escape and rescue routes

  • Windows and outside doors without smoke and fire protection requirements regulated by EN 14 351-1
  • Doors in rescue routes EN 179/EN 1125
  • German directive governing electrical locking systems on doors in escape routes (EltVTR)
  • German directive governing automatic sliding doors in rescue routes AutSchR
  • Function of revolving doors in escape routes DIN 18650

Supplementary standards and directives

  • Preventative fire protection: smoke exhaust to DIN 18232-2
  • DIN 18040 barrier-free construction
  • EN 1627 sets out the provisions for burglar inhibition of doors and assigns these to 6 burglar resistance classes