Access Control Installation RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in an Access Control Installation RAMS

Fire alarm interface — fail-safe door release

Mag-locks and electrical strikes on fire escape routes must fail to the open (fail-safe) position on fire alarm activation. The RAMS must confirm that the door release interface with the fire alarm system has been designed and coordinated with the fire alarm contractor, that the fail-safe mode is tested as part of commissioning, and that the arrangement complies with the building's fire strategy and the requirements of BS EN 54 and Approved Document B.

Electrical connections — low voltage and mains

Access control systems involve both low-voltage (data, card reader, REX buttons) and mains power (power supplies, mains-fed door controllers). The RAMS must distinguish between the two, confirm that mains electrical connections are carried out by a competent electrician, and describe the isolation procedure for any adjacent live circuits during cable routing.

Door hardware fitting — physical security

Installing mag-locks, electric strikes, and door closers involves drilling into door frames and structural elements. The RAMS must confirm that fixings are into sound substrate, that drilling is not into unknown electrical or mechanical services, and that door hardware is fitted in accordance with the manufacturer's installation guide.

Commissioning and handover

Access control commissioning involves testing each door, card reader, request-to-exit device, and alarm output. The RAMS must describe the commissioning sequence, the sign-off procedure, and what documentation is handed over to the client including programming records, user codes, and maintenance information.