Philadelphia Code Subcode F (IFC §1010) requires egress doors to unlatch with a single motion, no key or special knowledge, and panic hardware on assemblies over 50 occupants. Classroom barricade devices, chains, and double-cylinder deadbolts on exit doors are prohibited.
Philadelphia Fire Code Subcode F adopts IFC Chapter 10 (Means of Egress), specifically Section 1010 governing door hardware. Egress doors must unlatch from the egress side without a key, tool, or special knowledge, using a single releasing operation. Panic hardware (push bar) is required on doors serving Group A (assembly) over 50 occupants and on Group H (high hazard) and educational occupancies. Double-cylinder deadbolts that need a key inside are prohibited on exit doors. Classroom-barricade devices and chains are illegal under IFC 1010.1.4.4 except where approved purpose-built secondary locking devices meeting NFPA 80 and life-safety override exist. Property owners face Fire Marshal inspection any time and during sprinkler/CO certification.
Locked, chained, blocked, or non-compliant exit doors violate Subcode F and IFC 1010, drawing Fire Marshal citations from 500 to 5,000 dollars per door, with daily penalties, and immediate closure of any business with deadly egress obstructions.
Philadelphia, PA
Pennsylvania DHS regulates childcare centers under 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270 (centers), 3280 (group homes), and 3290 (family homes). Philadelphia layers zonin...
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia adopts the International Fire Code Chapter 61 through Subcode F (Philadelphia Code Title 4-100). Residential propane cylinders are limited to 40...
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Code Title 4 adopts IBC Chapter 9 and IRC R313 through Subcodes B and R, requiring NFPA 13 or 13R sprinkler systems in all new multi-family buil...
See how Philadelphia's door locking hardware rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.