Automatic sliding door breakout lets the sliding leaves be pushed open outwards like a hinged door in an emergency, so people can get out even if the door is not sliding. It is available as an option on the MC-125 automatic sliding door. This guide explains how automatic sliding door breakout works, where it is used, and what to decide before the door is ordered.
In this guide
What breakout means
On a standard automatic sliding door, the leaves can only move sideways along the track. With breakout, the leaves are hung so that a firm push swings them outwards on a pivot, opening the doorway in the direction of escape.
Automatic sliding door breakout is a mechanical function. It does not depend on the motor, the controller or mains power, which is why it matters for escape.
Why choose automatic sliding door breakout
- Escape when the door is not sliding. If the operator has stopped, people can still push the leaves open.
- Getting equipment out. A breakout leaf can be opened to move large items through.
- Peace of mind. It removes a single point of failure from the main exit.
Where breakout is used
Automatic sliding door breakout is most common on main entrances that double as exits:
- Shopping centres and supermarkets, where the automatic door is the main exit.
- Hospitals and clinics, where beds and equipment may need a wider opening.
- Offices and receptions on escape routes.
- Schools, hotels and public buildings.
Whether a particular door must have breakout is decided by the building’s fire and escape strategy, confirmed by the fire consultant or local authority for that project. We fit what the approved design requires; we do not issue compliance statements. See automatic door compliance.
Breakout, power cuts and locking
Automatic sliding door breakout works alongside the other ways an MC-125 copes with problems:
| Situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| Power cut | Optional battery backup keeps the door running; it can also be moved by hand |
| Operator fault | Leaves can be pushed open where breakout is fitted |
| Night locking | The door is locked in lock mode; escape needs are set in the fire strategy |
Read automatic doors during load-shedding and automatic door operating modes.
Ordering breakout
- Check the escape strategy with your architect or fire consultant.
- Confirm the breakout layout for your opening with us at the site visit.
- Allow space outside the door for the leaves to swing.
- Specify it at order stage, because breakout changes the leaf and track hardware.
The MC-125 with breakout is supplied and installed by MC Automations, Coetz™’s parent company. The base MC-125 system is R27 590 excluding VAT, installed in Gauteng; breakout is quoted per project. See the MC-125 automatic sliding door.
Living with breakout
Day to day, a door with breakout looks and behaves like any other automatic sliding door. After a leaf has been pushed open, it is swung back and reset into the track; staff should be shown how to do this at handover. Keep the swing area outside the door clear, because a leaf that cannot swing fully defeats the purpose. If a leaf is regularly pushed open by accident, for example by trolleys, tell the technician so the setting can be checked.
Testing and servicing
Automatic sliding door breakout must be tested at every service visit to make sure the leaves swing freely and reset correctly. Service automatic doors every six months, and never block the swing area outside the door with stock, signs or planters. In Gauteng, call-outs are attended within 24 hours. See automatic door safety and automatic door maintenance. The South African Bureau of Standards publishes the national standards framework.
Automatic sliding door breakout: frequently asked questions
Is breakout available on the MC-125?
Yes. Breakout is an option on the MC-125 and is specified when the door is ordered.
Does breakout need power?
No. It is mechanical, so the leaves can be pushed open without power.
Is breakout required on my door?
That depends on the building’s fire and escape strategy, confirmed by the fire consultant or local authority.
Can breakout be added later?
It changes the leaf and track hardware, so it is best specified at order stage. Ask us about an existing door.
How often should breakout be tested?
At every service, which should be every six months.
Coetz™, Unit 2, 84 Ridge Road, Laser Park, Johannesburg. Call 010 412 0062, WhatsApp 076 613 4418 or use our contact page.
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