Is it permissible to chain an exit door under any circumstances?

• A. No, it is never ok
• B. Yes, during emergencies
• C. Only with supervision
• D. Only if a sign is posted

Answer: (A)

Exits must be kept unobstructed and operable from the inside without needing a key or special tool. Chaining an exit door directly blocks the path to escape and can delay people during an emergency when every second counts. Signage, supervision, or emergency circumstances don’t justify blocking egress, because the purpose of an exit is to allow immediate, safe exit for everyone inside. If access control is needed, use approved methods that still provide immediate egress, such as panic hardware or other code-compliant releases. In short, chaining an exit door is never permissible.