Just a query...

Is it classed as an obstruction of a fire exit door to have a slam lock latch on one of 3 designated fire exits on the ground floor in our office building?

This particular door has an entry system allowing clients to buzz the particular company they would like to see and once inside the door closes onto the latch behind him/her.

Please advise.

Many Thanks.

It depends on the direction of the means of escape will anybody escaping from a fire have to pass through these doors from the secure side of the door or will they be able to simple operate a latch or handle to pass through the door? There are solutions regarding security check out http://www.firesafe....nd-fire-safety/ .

I am assuming the exit door opens outwards. If it does the latch can be simply overcome in an emergency by having a panic bar installed (I would recommend panic bar rather than panic latch, as there are clients in the building). See http://www.safelincs.co.uk/Fire-Exit-Door-Equipment/ for examples

Will a panic bar be compatible with a controlled entry system? Another thing I should have mentioned was if the mains electric should fail will it still be possible to exit though the controlled entry system door from the escape side?