Access Control
Magnetic Locks, Exit Buttons and Fire Safety: Getting Door Access Right
Choosing the right lock is as important as choosing the reader. Learn the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure, and how to keep doors safe in an emergency.
An access control reader decides whether someone may enter. The lock is what actually holds the door. Getting the lock and its wiring right is essential for both security and life safety.
Common lock types
- Electromagnetic lock (maglock): a strong magnet holds the door when powered. Popular for glass and wooden doors.
- Electric strike: replaces the strike plate in the door frame and releases the latch.
- Electric bolt: a bolt that drops into the frame, often used on glass doors.
Fail-safe vs fail-secure
| Fail-safe | Fail-secure | |
|---|---|---|
| When power is lost | Door unlocks | Door stays locked |
| Typical lock | Maglock | Some electric strikes |
| Use on | Escape routes, main exits | Stores, server rooms (with mechanical exit) |
Life safety firstDoors on escape routes must always let people out in an emergency. Follow local fire regulations and your fire consultant’s advice when choosing locks for these doors.
Essential exit components
- Exit button on the inside to release the door. Touchless buttons are more hygienic.
- Emergency break-glass that cuts power to the lock directly.
- Fire alarm interface so all escape doors release when the alarm activates.
- Door sensor to alert when a door is forced or left open.
Power and installation tips
- Use a dedicated access control power supply with battery backup.
- Choose the right bracket (L, Z or U) for the door type, especially glass doors.
- Check door alignment. A maglock only holds well when the plate meets the magnet fully.
- Protect the wiring inside the frame so it cannot be cut from outside.
Quick checklist for every controlled door
- Is the door on an escape route? Then use a fail-safe lock that releases on power loss and fire alarm.
- Fit an exit button inside and an emergency break-glass that cuts power to the lock.
- Use a dedicated power supply with battery backup for the lock and reader.
- Choose the bracket (L, Z or U) for the door type and check the door closes squarely onto the lock.
- Add a door sensor so forced or propped-open doors raise an alert.
Products mentioned in this guide
Genuine products with official warranty, delivered anywhere in Bangladesh.
