If you’re responsible for the safety and security of a building, whether it’s an office, commercial building, or any other type of property, then you’re likely familiar with maglocks. With the maglocks you can save your money in the long run with mag lock doors.
Maglocks, short for magnetic locks, are commonly used to secure doors in high-traffic areas such as entrances, exits, and stairwells.
Magnetic door locks are designed to provide a secure and reliable locking mechanism, but like any other component of a building’s security system, they require regular inspection and maintenance.
In this blog post, we’ll take you through the maglock inspection guide, so you can ensure that your maglocks are functioning correctly and your building is safe and secure.
What is Maglock Inspection?
Maglock inspection is the process of examining and testing the functionality, physical condition, and maintenance requirements of a magnetic locking system installed in a building or facility.
This inspection ensures that the electromagnetic locks are installed correctly and functioning properly, and any necessary maintenance or repairs are identified and addressed promptly to ensure the safety and security of the building.
Who Performs It?
Maglock inspection is typically performed by licensed security professionals who are trained and experienced in inspecting and maintaining maglock systems. They use specialized equipment and tools to examine the maglocks’ physical components, wiring, and connections and conduct functional tests to ensure they are operating correctly. The inspection also includes a review of any necessary maintenance or repairs needed to keep the maglocks in optimal working condition.
Participants Involved in the process
The process of installing a magnetic lock requires coordination with various individuals and entities. Careful planning and communication between the key participants can help ensure a smooth and successful inspection. There are three essential participants who play a significant role in the final inspection process:
Main Coordinator
Typically, the security installer, the main coordinator oversees the organization of the installation, permits, and inspection. In addition to ensuring that everyone is ready for the inspection, they will also chat with the inspector to narrow their attention to the specific items they will be inspecting.
Fire Alarm Operator
The fire alarm operator oversees the fire alarm panel and needs to have thorough training on how to operate the alarm system for this building. They should also be able to solve problems quickly if they occur.
Building Manager/Operator
The building manager or operator oversees coordinating the facility’s accessibility, including access to the CACF room and other floors. They also make sure the fire department has been informed about the test and let the other tenants know that there will be a fire alarm test to prevent them from being mistakenly dispatched.
Since communication between parties is crucial, it’s imperative to have walkie-talkies or to ensure that your cell phone connection is reliable. The person accompanying the inspector must be able to converse with the person operating the fire alarm in the CACF room.
Regulations and Standards for Maglocks
After the installation, the maglock device must pass a final inspection before it can be activated. Magnetic locks are subject to various regulations and standards to ensure their safe and effective use. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most relevant regulations and standards for maglocks:
Building Codes
Many building codes require maglocks to comply with certain standards to ensure safety and security. For instance, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides guidelines for installing and using electromagnetic locks on doors in different occupancy classifications.
UL Standards
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a safety consulting and certification company that tests and certifies various products and systems, including maglocks. The UL standards cover a wide range of requirements, such as the materials used, fire resistance, and electrical safety.
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
IEC is an international organization that publishes standards for electrical, electronic, and related technologies. Its standards for maglocks cover issues such as the maximum force the lock can exert and the rate at which it releases in case of an emergency.
It is important to note that regulatory bodies and standards can vary depending on the location and type of installation. Maglock installers and users should always consult the relevant regulations and standards to ensure compliance and safety.
Maglock Inspection Process
To install a maglock in a building, there are certain steps you need to take. It’s not too hard to physically put the maglock in place, but you need to work with different people and do a lot of planning to make sure everything is ready for inspection.
Here’s what’s typically involved in a maglock inspection:
Visual Inspection
The inspector will first conduct a visual inspection of the maglocks to check for any physical damage, wear, and tear, or signs of tampering. They will also look for any potential hazards that could compromise the lock’s performance or safety.
Functional Testing
The inspector will then test the maglocks to ensure that they function properly. This includes checking the lock’s holding force, verifying the release mechanism, and testing the lock’s response to fire alarm signals or power failures.
Documentation Review
The inspector will review the documentation related to the maglocks, such as installation manuals, operating instructions, and maintenance records. They will also check if the maglocks meet the relevant regulatory requirements.
Maglock Pre-installation Checklist
Before proceeding with the installation process, it is crucial to follow a pre-inspection checklist to ensure that everything is in place.
This checklist includes several essential points that need to be checked. By following this pre-installation checklist, you can ensure that the maglocks installed are in good working condition and meet all safety requirements. Here is a pre-inspection checklist to follow:
Check Wiring
Ensure that the maglock is wired in series directly to the local pull station to ensure immediate release in an emergency situation.
Fire Alarm System
Check that the maglock is connected to the building fire alarm system to ensure that it releases when the fire alarm is activated.
Inspection Date/Time
Confirm that the building inspector has confirmed a date/time for the inspection to ensure everyone is aware of when the inspection will take place.
Power Supply
Confirm that the maglock power supply is connected to a GFCI plug or breaker in the CACF room.
Key Switch
Ensure that the maglock power supply is connected to a key switch that will drop and reset the building maglocks.
CACF Room Access
Ensure that you have access to the CACF room to access the maglock power supply.
Tenant Notification
Notify the building tenants about the test to avoid any confusion or alarm.
Emergency Lighting
Ensure that emergency lighting is installed and functional at the door for well-lit area during an emergency situation.
After-Hours Inspection Form
Submit the after-hours inspection form if the inspection takes place outside of normal business hours.
Installer’s Declaration Form
Make sure that the installer’s declaration form is complete and accurately filled out.
Fire Department Notification
Notify the local fire department about the test to avoid any false alarms or unnecessary responses.
Maglock Stickers
Confirm that maglock stickers are permanently mounted on the maglock door to indicate that the maglock has passed inspection.
Pull Station Accessibility
Check that the pull station is no more than 600 mm from the inside frame of the door for easy accessibility.
Building Maglock Switch Key Access
Confirm that you have access to the building maglock switch key to test the maglocks.
Post-Installation Inspection Checklist for Maglocks
Before proceeding with the installation process, it is crucial to follow a pre-inspection checklist to ensure that everything is in place.
This checklist includes several essential points that need to be checked. By following this pre-installation checklist, you can ensure that the maglocks installed are in good working condition and meet all safety requirements. Here is a pre-inspection checklist to follow:
Maglock Inspection: Physical, Functional, and Maintenance Checklist
Inspection Item | Physical Inspection | Functional Testing | Maintenance |
---|---|---|---|
Maglock Wiring | Check for damage or wear on wires and connections | Test electrical continuity and polarity | Replace damaged wires or connections |
Power Supply | Inspect for damage, loose connections, or signs of overheating | Test electrical continuity and polarity | Replace damaged components or power supply |
Emergency Release | Verify emergency release mechanism is functional | Test emergency release mechanism | Lubricate or replace components as needed |
Maglock Alignment | Verify maglock is properly aligned with the strike plate | Test locking and unlocking mechanism | Adjust the strike plate or maglock position if necessary |
Maglock Stickers | Inspect for damage or wear on maglock stickers | Verify stickers are visible and legible | Replace damaged or illegible stickers |
Fire Alarm Integration | Inspect wiring and connections to the fire alarm system | Test fire alarm activation and maglock release | Repair or replace damaged or faulty wiring or components |
Manual Release Switch | Inspect the manual release switch for damage or wear | Test manual release mechanism | Replace damaged or faulty components |
Importance of Maglock Inspection
Maglock inspection is an essential component of building safety and security, and it is crucial for building owners and managers to prioritize regular inspections to ensure the safety and well-being of all occupants and visitors.
Ensuring the safety and security of people and property
Maglock inspection is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of people and property in a building. Failure to comply with relevant regulations or identify potential safety issues can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Avoiding legal and financial liabilities
Additionally, if malfunctioning maglock results in property damage or injury, the building owner or manager may face legal and financial liabilities.
Preventing downtime due to malfunctions
By conducting regular magnet operated lock inspections, building owners and managers can prevent downtime due to malfunctions and ensure that the maglocks are functioning properly in case of an emergency.
Cost saving
Moreover, regular inspections can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for prompt repairs and maintenance, and ultimately, saving costs in the long run.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, maglocks are an essential component of building safety and security, and it is important to conduct regular inspections to ensure they are functioning properly. Spotter Security is a reliable platform in Canada that offers a variety of high-quality and certified maglocks that meet industry standards.
By choosing Spotter Security, customers can have peace of mind and confidence in their security systems. If you have any experience with maglock issues or want to share your thoughts on inspection frequency, please leave a comment below. Make sure to choose a trusted supplier like Spotter Security for all your Maglock needs.
Written by : Carlo Di Leo
At the age of 24, with no experience in the security industry or any money in the bank, Carlo quit his job and started Spotter Security from his parent's basement. Founded in 2004, Spotter grew from a single man operation into a multi-million dollar security system integrator that caters to businessess and construction sites across Canada.