Question 1

What is EDS?

Accepted Answer

An Escape Door System (EDS) is designed specifically to ensure people can escape safely through electrically controlled escape doors and to maintain secure locking in the event of an emergency.

Question 2

What is EN 13637?

Accepted Answer

EN 13637 is a European standard that specifies the requirements, test methods and performance criteria for electrically controlled exit systems used on escape routes. It applies to doors equipped with electric locking, access control and electronic release functions, ensuring that occupants can always exit safely in an emergency while maintaining security during normal operation.

Question 3

Which effeff components are required for an EN 13637 compliant solution?

Accepted Answer

Every Escape Door System is comprised of 3 components to meet EN 13637. Blocking (Locking Element), Control and Activation (Terminal). These elements MUST be tested and certified together as a package to ensure compliance and safety.

Question 4

What types of buildings can benefit from EN 13637 compliant escape door systems?

Accepted Answer

Any building that requires controlled escape can benefit from an EDS solution.

Question 5

How does EN 13637 differ from EN 179 and EN 1125?

Accepted Answer

Whereas EN 179 and EN 1125 standards apply to instant egress, EN 13637 allows you to block an escape door in a safe and controlled way.

Question 6

Is EN 13637 suitable for both emergency exits and panic exits?

Accepted Answer

An EN 13637 solution can be used on both EN 179 and EN 1125 doorsets where controlled escape is required.

Question 7

Can EN 13637 systems be integrated with access control systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The EDS solution will work with all access control systems.

Question 8

Does EN 13637 allow delayed egress functionality?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are 3 settings that you can configure your system to: T0 = Instant Egress, T1 = 1-15 second delay and T2 = up to 180 seconds (24/7 monitoring is required for T2 extended delay).

Question 9

What happens to an EN 13637 system during a power failure?

Accepted Answer

In the event of a power failure, the lock will fail-safe, allowing instant egress.

Question 10

Can the system be connected to a fire alarm system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even though it is not required by the standard, you can connect to a fire alarm system so that the lock fails safe when activated.

Question 11

The approved locking devices do not suit my application. Can I replace an approved lock with another locking device?

Accepted Answer

No. Any locking device used in conjunction with an escape door system MUST be tested and approved by the manufacturer as a component within the system. Any deviation from this will compromise the EN 13637 compliance.