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mssy  
#1 Posted : 07 August 2015 21:05:32(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
mssy

Just recently I have come across builders carrying out temporary works in occupied buildings on our estate using Redlam type bolts in inappropriate locations

http://www.safelincs.co.uk/redlam-panic-bolt/

These units have been fitted at the top of a door frame so that you have to be fairly tall and strong to be able to use the hammer with arms outstretched. I am also concerned that although modern frangible tubes are designed to not have sharp edges, breaking them above head height whilst looking straight at it - and in an emergency - is not ideal.

I have stopped this practice & intend to issue some policy in the use of these bolts, but am getting resistance from various directions.

So I being unreasonable?

toe  
#2 Posted : 07 August 2015 21:20:39(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
toe

Not unreasonable at all - you have identified a potential risk to someone's eyes and possible a risk to safely evacuate the premises.

I know that your Fire Safety knowledge is really good and you have given lots of good advice here on these forums in the past. Sometimes we need a reality check for ourselves, I often do that myself.

Yes stop the practice and stick to your guns.
mssy  
#3 Posted : 08 August 2015 13:22:06(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
mssy

Toe wrote:
Sometimes we need a reality check for ourselves, I often do that myself.



That's exactly where I am on this one.

I pride myself on taking a pragmatic and common sense approach to all I do in order to distance myself from the rather weak 'code hugging' approach I see too often in fire safety (and H&S).

I come from a background of working in a team of peers where impromptu brainstorming sessions (aka arguments!) would happen throughout the day to chew over issues such as this Redlam bolt one.

Now working in a team of one, its good to get the views of others via this site.


John D C  
#4 Posted : 08 August 2015 15:27:44(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
John D C

The normal position is normally about the middle of the door edge where the handle is usually situated. It is done this way because that's were people tend to look when approaching a door. In a 'panic' situation like escaping from a fire people will be confused if the Redlam bolt is not seen in the normal position. Thus we have a delay in opening the door. Agree with your position especially with the added risks of not being able to reach the bolt and getting glass in the eye or face if they do reach it. Stick to your guns on this one.
Take care
John C
Psycho  
#5 Posted : 11 August 2015 12:41:08(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Psycho

we use thease cost more and also a chain if they are up a height, normally at hip height

http://www.safelincs.co.uk/kingpin-panic-bolt/
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