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American National Standard for Auxiliary Hardware
Standard ANSI/BHMA A156.16-2023 establishes requirements for bored auxiliary hardware, and includes cycle tests, strength tests, operational tests, material evaluation tests, finish tests, and dimensional criteria. For further information, consult the full standard, ANSI/BHMA A156.16 for Auxiliary Hardware.
BHMA has created this series of Hardware Highlights to provide useful, accessible information about builders hardware for anyone with an interest in devices that hang, control, secure, and trim the doors. BHMA is the trade association which represents almost all of the North American manufacturers of builders hardware. One of its main activities since 1983 has been the development and maintenance of ANSI-approved standards for 35 separate product categories.
Product Performance: Purchasers of auxiliary hardware certified to A156.16 (http://buildershardware.com/cpd) can be assured products will perform to their expectations.
Below are an explanation and some examples of the evaluations conducted for certification:
About twenty different types of auxiliary hardware are covered in the standard, including: door holders and stops, garment hooks, shower curtain rods, towel holders, door viewers, handrail brackets, roller latches, door silencer, grab bars, window lifts, and casement window controls.
Building products are expected to last a long time, and builders hardware is no exception. Cycle tests are performed to assure that the design is capable of repeated operation without degradation; 50,000 cycles are required for Grade 1 door holder, as an example.
One test assures, “Doors shall glide smoothly with no discernible stop-go action or chatter.” Abuse tests that are conducted evaluate traits such as mirror impact and track jumping resistance, and another test checks the bottom track crushing strength.
An additional duty of builders hardware is to be aesthetically attractive and stay that way. Resistance to chemicals and to corrosion by salt spray testing is verified, providing confidence in the long-term appearance of the architectural metals and coatings.
Locks and latches contribute to building sustainability through their verified durability, as well as material characteristics such as recycled content and recyclability. The reliable closing and sealing of openings can also contribute to energy conservation. BHMA has developed Product Category Rules, which will further define sustainability requirements and guide life cycle assessments and environmental performance declarations.
Function Numbers: Another significant contribution of standards for product specification is a numbering system for lock function. Please consult A156.16 for the full list; an example is provided here:
Combination Stops and Holders: Wall Type Semi-Automatic Hold-Open Operation: Same as L0124 type except body is attached to wall. Projection when engaged 4 9/16 in (118 mm). Attached by surface screws.
L01261L01262L01623