The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recently published the first North America standard for multipoint locking hardware for side-hinged door systems. AAMA 909-13, “Voluntary Specification for Cycle Performance and Testing of Side-Hinged Exterior Door Multipoint Locking Hardware” establishes a minimum performance requirement and test procedure to evaluate the durability of multipoint locking door hardware.

“As the use of multipoint locking hardware increases, products tested to AAMA 909 will help manufacturers confidently incorporate compliant locks into their door systems,” says Mark Fortun (Endura Products, Inc.), member of AAMA’s Door Hardware Task Group.

Prior to the publication of AAMA 909, the only existing North American standards that were considered to be applicable dealt with single point locking hardware, such as a typical latch and dead bolt. “There was never a standardized set of basic product requirements unique to multipoint locking hardware despite their use for several years,” says Matt Taylor (HOPPE North America, Inc.), member of AAMA’s Door Hardware Task Group.

The reliable functionality of multipoint locking hardware is an essential factor for long-term performance of side-hinged door systems. “The test methods and evaluation criteria in AAMA 909 ensure a rigorous representation of real-world lock use,” says Fortun.

AAMA 909-13 may be purchased from AAMA’s Publication store.

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Filed under: AAMA, ASSOCIATION NEWS, Products