ANSI/BHMA A156.
3-2014
American National Standard
for Exit Devices
ANSI/BHMA A156.3-2014 establishes requirements for exit devices and trim, automatic and self-latching flush bolts,
removable mullions, coordinators, and carry-open bars. Performance criteria include cycle, operational, strength, material
evaluation, and finish tests. Functions and types are described and numbered. For further information, consult the full
standard, ANSI/BHMA A156.3 for Exit Devices.
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 exit devices, flush bolts, and door coordinators certified to A156.3
(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:
OPERATION DURABILITY SAFETY & SECURITY APPEARANCE
Both opening and closing Building products are Outside levers and thumb An additional duty of builders
forces are defined and expected to last a long time, pieces must withstand heavy hardware is to be aesthetically
measured to ensure the exit and builders hardware is no forces and prohibit entry. attractive and stay that way.
device functions in a manner exception. Grade 1 exit There is also a requirement Resistance to corrosion,
compatible with the human devices are subjected to that the latch man withstand chemicals, abrasion, and
operator and associated 500,000 loaded cycles with a 400 pound load in the sunlight are all considered in an
hardware, such as door no loss of operation. Many direction of egress without array of finish tests, providing
closers. Opening force tests additional tests verify the allowing the door to swing confidence in the architectural
are specified for the inside strength and durability open. metals and coatings.
actuating bar and the through pushing, turning,
outside trim. and pulling at the trim.
Building Builders hardware provides several attributes that are essential to building safety and performance,
Codes including egress and fire protection. Exit devices play an essential role in ensuring the safe egress from
assembly occupancies. BHMA certification includes compliance with UL 305 for Panic Devices.
Accessibility There are various types of builders hardware 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.”
With their broad actuating bars, exit devices meet these criteria, along with an operating force limit of 15
pounds, which has been shown to be suitable for accessible applications.
Sustainability Exit devices 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.
Specifying Numbers: Another significant contribution of standards for product
specification is a numbering system for exit types and function. Please consult A156.3 for
the full list; an example is provided here:
Type 2: Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device
Outside Trim Function 10: Entrance by knob or lever. Inside or outside key locks or
unlocks knob or lever. Outside key releases latch.
To purchase a copy of any BHMA Standard, go to www.buildershardware.com or call 800-699-9277.
This document is not a substitute for the full standard. Refer to the entire standard for full information.
