Door hardware release of electric locking systems is permitted on doors in the means of egress of most occupancy types but there are six specific conditions that must be followed to ensure occupant safety. See the conditions below:

Below is a sample of the IBC. See the actual IBC text at ICCSAFE.ORG for the complete code section.

1010.1.9.10 Door hardware release of electrically locked egress doors. Door hardware release of electric locking systems shall be permitted on doors in the means of egress in any occupancy except Group H where installed and operated in accordance with all of the following:

1. The door hardware that is affixed to the door leaf has an obvious method of operation that is readily operated under all lighting conditions.
2. The door hardware is capable of being operated with one hand and shall comply with Section 1010.1.9.6.
3. Operation of the door hardware directly interrupts the power to the electric lock and unlocks the door immediately.
4. Loss of power to the electric locking system automatically unlocks the door.
5. Where panic or fire exit hardware is required by Section 1010.1.10, operation of the panic or fire exit hardware also releases the electric lock.
6. The locking system units shall be listed in accordance with UL 294.