March 6, 2024 – Washington, DC – In response to a recent article highlighting the installation of NIGHTLOCK, a type of door barricade device at the University of Indianapolis, DHI and DSSF urge caution and emphasize the critical importance of adhering to established safety standards and protocols. While the desire to enhance security measures is understood, it is imperative to prioritize safety above all else.
“It is crucial to underscore that we at DHI and DSSF unequivocally oppose the use of non-code compliant locking devices, such as barricade devices, in any capacity,” shared Cortney Wascher, President of the DHI Board of Governors. “These devices not only violate established code requirements but also pose significant risks to safety and security. Specifically, they contravene standards outlined by the ICC A117.1 (Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities Standards), ADA (The Americans with Disabilities Act), NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency), and IBC (International Code Council).”
“The deployment of such barricade devices within educational institutions introduces a host of safety and security concerns,” added James Tartre, CDC, FDHI, President of the DSSF Board of Trustees. “Allowing students access to devices that impede egress capabilities and potentially lock emergency response personnel out of spaces not only violates safety regulations but also fosters an environment conducive to unwanted behaviors. These behaviors may include instances of bullying, violent acts among students, vandalism, and theft, all of which undermine the well-being and security of the academic community.”
DHI and DSSF have developed comprehensive documentation such as the Are Your Door Openings Secure? guideline which outlines secure opening characteristics crucial for maintaining safety in various settings. Additionally, DHI offers a convenient ‘Find a Pro’ feature, enabling instant connectivity to industry experts well-versed in door security and safety standards.
Door security and safety professionals, many of whom are specialized consultants and DHI-certified, play a critical role in assessing existing doors and hardware, recommending innovative yet cost-effective solutions, and resolving door safety and security concerns while adhering to code requirements.
DHI’s membership base encompasses design and construction experts, building code officials, local code experts, and professionals in the commercial door and hardware industry who possess the technical knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to provide lifesaving, door and hardware solutions.
Consulting a door security and safety professional should be a basic requirement to ensure school safety. We encourage door and hardware professionals within the industry to join our efforts in amplifying this message by:
- Participating in DHI’s Ambassador Toolkit – consisting of talking points, sample social media posts, a Letter to the Editor template, relevant statistics, and links to valuable assets and resources – to help raise awareness of the door and hardware industry and its professionals.
- Using key messages outlined in the DHI School Security and Safety Policy Principles to draft a letter to local school board members, the local Parent Teachers Association (PTA), and school district leadership. We recommend using the Letter to the Editor template, included in the Ambassador Toolkit, to help craft your letter.
- Focusing your message on proven best practices related to life safety and security as it pertains to doors and hardware, rather than any perceived failures.
- Communicating to stakeholders that you are available to consult in and assist with the decision-making process, knowing that they may be presented with numerous solutions in the aftermath of recent tragedies.
DHI and DSSF urge institutions to prioritize safety and adhere to established standards and guidelines when implementing security measures. We remain committed to promoting a safe and secure environment for all individuals and encourage collaboration with industry experts to ensure the effective implementation of sound security practices.
For more information, please visit the DHI website, DSSF website, or contact DHI Technical Director James Gammon, CFDAI at jgammon@sdhi.org.