Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Advanced Officer Certification Practice Exam

What is a delayed egress lock designed to do?

1. Prevent power surges

2. Restrict access to secure areas

3. Keep doors closed for a set time

4. Control video surveillance

The correct answer is: Keep doors closed for a set time

A delayed egress lock is specifically designed to keep doors closed for a predetermined amount of time, allowing for controlled exit in emergency situations while preventing unauthorized entry or exit. This type of lock typically releases after a brief delay when the exit device is activated, which is crucial in environments like healthcare facilities where it is important to manage safety and security without compromising the ability to evacuate during emergencies. The functionality of delayed egress locks balances security needs with safety protocols; for instance, it allows for an effective response to potential threats while maintaining a level of security until the exit is intentionally triggered. This delay serves to alert security personnel to a situation, providing them with critical seconds to assess or intervene, thus retaining control over the situation. In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of facility management: power surges are managed through electrical systems, secure area access restrictions involve different security barriers, and video surveillance is related to monitoring rather than physical security.