Exit doors that are normally kept open can be equipped with

• A. Door closers and automatic hold-open devices
• B. Panic hardware
• C. Deadbolts
• D. Spring hinges

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that doors in egress paths can be kept open for convenience but must be able to close automatically to maintain fire and smoke containment. This is achieved by pairing a door closer with an automatic hold-open device. The hold-open device keeps the door open during normal use, and the door closer powers the door to return to a closed position when it's released—typically by a fire alarm or loss of power. This setup ensures easy traffic flow while still meeting safety requirements for automatic closure.

Panic hardware isn’t about keeping the door open; it provides a quick, unobstructed exit but doesn’t guarantee automatic closure in a fire. Deadbolts obstruct egress and are not permitted on doors that must be readily used for exit. Spring hinges can help with closing but don’t provide an appropriate, compliant method for maintaining an open position that releases during an alarm.