Should rolling doors ever be used as a path of egress?

Rolling doors should never be used as a path of egress because they can obstruct quick and safe exits in emergency situations. When a rapid evacuation is necessary, especially in the case of fire or other life-threatening scenarios, rolling doors may not open quickly enough, or could become stuck or jammed, hindering the escape process.

Egress routes must be reliable and ensure that occupants can exit a building without delay or obstruction. Building codes and safety regulations typically dictate that paths of egress must remain clear and accessible, and the use of rolling doors does not meet these critical criteria. Furthermore, if the rolling doors are operated mechanically, any loss of power or mechanical failure could prevent individuals from escaping, making them a poor choice for emergency exits.

In sum, while rolling doors may be practical for certain applications, they do not provide the necessary safety and reliability for use as an egress route.