There are a lot of things to think about when it comes to codes and standards in a commercial building, right down to what type of hardware is installed for the doors. Here is a quick and easy guide to approved door hardware for commercial buildings. 

1. Self-releasing door hardware:

The outside lever is locked and unlocked by a key from the exterior.  The inside lever is always unlocked and provides a single motion exiting when the interior lever is turned.

 2. Self-releasing door hardware with a coded entry:

The door is locked from the exterior side at all times and a code is required for entry. The inside is provided with a single motion exiting when the lever is turned.

3. Self-releasing door hardware with interconnected single-locking hardware:

Single deadbolt protection with a single motion exiting (co-activating) when the lever is turned.  The deadbolt retracts when the interior lever is turned.

4. Self-releasing door hardware with interconnecting multi-point locking hardware:

Multi-point deadbolt protection with a single motion exiting when the panic bar is depressed.  Multi-point locking hardware is also available with a lever-type handle.

5. Key locked deadbolt locks:

In buildings in occupancy Group A, having an occupant load of 300 or less, Groups B, F, M, and S, and in places of religious worship, the main door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided:

The locking device is readily distinguishable as locked.

A readily visible durable sign is posted to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THIS SPACE IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1 inch high on a contrasting background.

The use of the key-operated device is revocable by the fire code official for due cause.

Note:  The most common deadbolt in use is the single-keyed deadbolt where a key is required to unlock the door from the outside, but a thumb turn is used to unlock the door from the inside.  This is not permitted on any door in Class B or M occupancy unless it is a component of interconnected single-locking hardware.