Lori Greene's blog linked to this AIA Brief that details code variances several states have accepted or proposed for using barricade locks (Link to her post). I am surprised at the number of variances on the books.
Some of those variances still outlaw most forms of barricade locks, but accept use of types that meet specific criteria. Others accept classroom function hardware, but not barricade locks.
Current Status of Barricades in State Codes:
California, 2010
“On and after July 1, 2011, all new construction projects submitted to the Division of the State Architect pursuant to this chapter shall include locks that allow doors to classrooms and any room with an occupancy of five or more persons to be locked from the inside.”
New Jersey, 2013
“Classroom doors can be locked to prevent entry from the outside of the classroom if in compliance with Section 1008.1.8 which requires the door to be openable from the side of egress without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. A device that slides under the door to prevent entry can be acceptable if staff is trained in its use and is constantly positioned inside to remove it if necessary. The installation or use of a hasp lock mechanism, a slide bolt or a door wedge is absolutely prohibited. Another device that is being used on classroom door frames is magnetic strips that cover the latch opening. This strip prevents the door latch from latching or locking and is removed in an emergency allowing the door to latch and lock. This is permitted as long as egress can be made from the occupied side and the door is not part of an opening protective in a fire rated assembly. In any case where the actual door hardware is being altered or changed, a construction permit is required.”
Arkansas, 2015
“A person may install and use a temporary door barricade device or security lockdown device for security purposes to protect individuals during active shooter events or other similar situations.”
Colorado, 2015
“In classrooms within group E occupancies, hardware shall include a means to manually lock egress doors from inside the classroom. Such means shall not prevent these doors from being readily openable from the egress side without key or special knowledge or effort.”
Minnesota, May 2015
“Classroom security concerns during a lockdown emergency are well understood, and fortunately this problem is easily addressed via the use of code-compliant egress/security hardware. Proper door hardware eliminates the need for security and barricade devices while maintaining free egress. Commonly known as a classroom security lockset, this type of hardware allows exit doors to be quickly and securely locked from the classroom side, and may even include a deadbolt feature for added security. Activation of the locking hardware is quick and simple by operation of a thumb-turn device or key from the classroom side (these locks are available in either configuration). Such hardware fully complies with both the state fire and building codes because normal operation of the handle on the classroom side automatically releases the latch and deadbolt, allowing for free egress.”
Ohio, pending 2016
“Temporary Door Locking Device …. to prevent ingress and egress. A temporary door locking device shall be permitted when approved by the building official only in school buildings where: The device is engaged only by a staff member of the school building; and The temporary door locking device shall only be engaged for a finite period of time …. and The temporary door locking device shall only be used in an emergency situation …. and …. the administrative authority of a school building has notified the police and fire officials prior to the use of the temporary door locking device; and …. training on the use of the temporary door locking device is provided
Operational requirements: The temporary door locking device shall not be permanently mounted to the door (see exceptions). The removal …. shall not require more than one operation. Two operations may be permitted …. if the school building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system"