According to NFPA 72, how long may doors remain locked during a power failure before they must unlock?

NFPA 72, which is the National Fire Protection Association's standard for the installation of fire alarm systems, includes specific guidelines regarding the locking mechanisms on doors during emergencies, including power failures. The standard stipulates that doors equipped with locking mechanisms must automatically unlock within a certain timeframe to ensure safe egress and to facilitate emergency response.

The rationale behind the 10-minute timeout for locked doors during a power failure is primarily centered on safety concerns. In the event of an emergency, time is of the essence, and individuals must be able to exit a building swiftly without hindrance. The 10-minute requirement strikes a balance between providing some security during normal operation and ensuring that safety protocols are upheld during a power outage.

Other durations, such as 5 minutes, 15 minutes, or 20 minutes, do not align with safety standards established by NFPA 72, as they either provide insufficient time for safe egress or do not account adequately for the urgency of a power failure situation. In particular, a 5-minute timeframe may not be sufficient in chaotic scenarios, while a longer unlock period could unnecessarily delay evacuation during emergencies. Therefore, the 10-minute requirement is necessary to promote safety and compliance with NFPA regulations.