Delayed Egress Exit Devices: Your Ultimate Guide to Enhanced Facility Security

Ensuring the safety and security of a building's occupants is a top priority for any facility manager. But behind the scenes of a smooth-flowing exit lies a world of sophisticated security measures, and delayed egress exit devices that are a crucial line of defense.

Delayed egress exit devices, commonly known as DEED or egress delay systems, serve as a cornerstone in enhancing safety and preventing unauthorized exits. These advanced security door devices are designed to introduce a brief delay before a door can be opened, ensuring controlled egress and reinforcing the security framework of any facility.

What Are Delayed Egress Exit Devices?

Delayed egress (DEED) Exit Devices, are specialized security door Exit Devices engineered to delay the opening of a door for a brief period after an exit attempt. Typically, this delay spans 15 to 30 seconds, providing ample time for an appropriate security response.

When an individual attempts to exit by pushing the door, the system activates a timer, during which an alarm sounds to alert security staff. Once the delay period lapses, the door unExit Devices, allowing for controlled egress while adhering to building codes and safety regulations. If the exit attempt ceases before the timer expires, the system resets and the door remains locked.

Benefits of Delayed Egress Exit Devices

In addition to compliance with building codes, Delayed egress (DEED) offer significant security benefits. The brief delay discourages unauthorized exits, such as shoplifting or wandering by patients in healthcare facilities. This time buffer allows security personnel to intervene and address the situation before it escalates.

Where Delayed Egress Exit Devices Excel

Delayed egress (DEED) offers a unique blend of security and controlled exits, making them ideal for various situations including:

Retail: Deter shoplifting and unauthorized removal of merchandise by providing security personnel valuable time to react. Secure high-value inventory in stockrooms and back offices with delayed egress.

Healthcare: Help manage patient movement, especially for those at risk of wandering unsupervised, such as in psychiatric units or children's wards. This controlled exit keeps patients within safe boundaries while still allowing for a quick exit in emergencies.

Assisted Living: Safeguard residents prone to wandering by giving staff enough time to intervene and prevent unsupervised exits. Ensure the safety and well-being of residents in assisted living communities.

Schools: Prevent unsupervised exits by children. Provide peace of mind for staff and parents knowing children are secure on the premises with an extra layer of security from delayed egress.

Public Facilities: Control access to restricted areas, like those leading to jetways or tarmacs in airports. Maintain safety protocols while allowing for controlled pedestrian flow.

Balancing Security and Safe Escape

Delayed egress exit devices offer a unique security solution, providing a buffer zone between a potential security breach and staff intervention. This controlled egress is particularly valuable in environments where both security and the ability to exit quickly are crucial.

Fire safety is Paramount.

Compliance with local building and fire safety codes is essential for delayed egress exit devices. These codes dictate the maximum delay period and other operational features to ensure safety during emergencies. There must be an immediate manual override to allow instant egress in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Clear signage is also required to instruct users on how the delayed egress system operates and what to expect during the delay period.

Prioritize Safety with Regular Maintenance

To ensure that delayed egress devices function correctly and remain compliant with safety regulations, regular maintenance is essential. This includes testing all components of the system, ensuring that alarms and override mechanisms are operational, and keeping the system updated to meet any new safety codes.

Delayed Egress Exit Devices: A Vital Layer of Security for Modern Facilities

Whether in retail, healthcare, assisted living, warehouses, or schools, delayed egress devices are a critical investment in the safety and integrity of any facility.

These sophisticated systems ensure a harmonious balance between controlled egress and strict safety compliance. Facility managers and security personnel can make strategic decisions about their use, fortifying security and providing peace of mind.

Explore the Exit Devices with Delayed Egress (DEED) Functionality

Building on this innovative approach, Corbin Russwin has several delayed egress options. All models comply with DEED UL listing requirements, holding UL 305 for Panic Hardware and UL-cUL Fire-Rated for up to 3 hours.

The PED4000 Series Exit Device deliver superior strength and durability, exceeding ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards. This ensures reliable operation even in high-traffic areas, providing safe egress for occupants in any emergency.

The PED5000 Series is the ultimate exit device designed for contemporary needs. provides maximum security and reliability for your facility. It surpasses ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards, ensuring long-lasting performance and safe egress. The sleek design complements any building aesthetic.

The ED5000 Series wide stile exit devices offer superior security and durability, exceeding ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards. They are built to withstand heavy use and provide reliable egress for the lifespan of your building. A variety of trim options allows you to maintain your facility's aesthetic.

The ED4000 Series narrow stile exit device is engineered for heavy-duty use on narrow stile doors. It's built to resist abuse and ensure reliable operation even in challenging environments, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Customizable trims offer flexibility to match your building's design.

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