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American National Standard for Multipoint Locks
Standard ANSI/BHMA A156.37 establishes performance requirements for Multipoint Locks and includes operational tests, cycle tests, strength tests, security tests, and finish tests. For further information, consult the full standard.
BHMA has created this series of Hardware Highlights to provide useful, accessible information about Builders Hardware for architects, specifiers, builders, building code officials – anyone with an interest in the devices that hang, control, secure, and trim the doors.
Product Performance: Purchasers of multipoint locks certified to A156.37 (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:
Attributes such as the force to retract the latch and force to close the door are measured to ensure ease of egress and smooth closing. The forces to open the door vary by the type of trim. For example: lever operated locks must open with a maximum torque of 28 in-lbf.
Building products are expected to last a long time, and builders hardware is no exception. Grade 1 multipoint locks, for example, must pass a rigorous test through one million cycles of opening and closing with a 10 pound axial load applied.
Locksets are counted on to allow carefree operation to those who are authorized, and ensure a high degree of security from the outside. Several aggressive tests are specified, including a 1350 pound Grade 1 bolt strength test.
An additional duty of builders hardware is to be aesthetically attractive and stay that way. Resistance to corrosion, chemicals, abrasion, and sunlight are all considered in an array of finish tests, providing confidence in the architectural metals and coatings.
Builders hardware provides several attributes that are essential to building safety and performance, including egress and fire protection. BHMA locksets are designed to comply with all applicable requirements. For example, hardware for fire doors is evaluated and listed to UL 10C by an accredited third-party testing laboratory.
There are various types of trim which meet the ADA and A117.1 requirements for operable parts to be “operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist.” Lever or paddle type trim meets these stipulations, while knob trim should be avoided for accessible routes. In addition, BHMA certified hardware must comply with the operational forces in their respective standards, which have been shown to be suitable for accessible applications
Multipoint locks 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: Due to the variety and complexity of Multipoint Lock designs, this standard does not offer type numbers and function descriptions typical of other BHMA Standards. Please consult individual manufacturer’s catalogs for specifying information. Multipoint Locks meeting this standard shall pass all the applicable tests as described in each section.