Propping Doors Open
Heating & cooling costs add up! Please avoid propping doors open on chilly (<50F) or warm (>75F) days to help us conserve energy and maintain a comfortable environment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!
Use the ADA buttons and the doors will open briefly for you.
Doors: Unlocking & Locking
aka: Dogging
Dogging is a term that refers to a specific function of door hardware, mainly exit devices, commonly used in public buildings like community centers. The term "dogging" originated in the maritime industry, where it was used to describe securing a ship's hatch or door to prevent it from closing. Over time, this term has been adapted to describe a similar function in door hardware.
In the context of doors, dogging allows the latch mechanism of an exit device or panic bar to be temporarily held in a retracted position, keeping the door unlocked for easy passage. This is particularly useful in community centers where doors need to be kept open during events or activities.
To dog a door, follow these steps:
Locate the dogging key or hex key on the windowsill to the left of the door.
Identify the dogging mechanism on the panic bar or exit device, usually a small hole or socket.
Insert the dogging key or hex key into the mechanism.
Turn the key clockwise until the latch retracts and stays in the open position.
To undog the door and return it to a locked position, simply reinsert the key and turn it counterclockwise until the latch mechanism extends back to its original position.