BHMA issues revisions for five standards

Words: Daniel AbitboulThe Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) has announced the publication of five revisions to the ANSI/BHMA Standards. The industry standards recently approved by ANSI (American National Standards Institute) are:
  • A156.18 Materials and Finishes
  • A156.20 Strap Hinges, Tee Hinges, and Hasps
  • A156.24 Delayed Egress Locking Systems
  • A156.26 Continuous Hinges
  • A156.29 Exit Locks, Exit Alarms, Alarms for Exit Devices
“BHMA rolled out five revised publications in the last quarter of 2012 as the standards completed their revision cycle,” said BHMA Executive Director, Ralph Vasami. “Publishing a revised standard for the industry translates into enhancements to each product’s engineering and design. Raising the bar for hardware performance and product life can directly impact the safety and security of the facility — especially the people that occupy it.”

ANSI/BHMA Standard A156.18 describes finish test methods and code numbers for finishes on base materials, developed to ensure quality control of the hardware finish.

ANSI/BHMA Standard A156.20 establishes the requirements for Strap Hinges, Tee Hinges, and Hasps. In addition, it specifies performance tests covering operational and strength principles.

ANSI/BHMA Standard A156.24 addresses conventional exit devices or locks causing the doors to remain locked after releasing actuation.

ANSI/BHMA Standard A156.26 sets requirements for architectural continuous hinges used in building construction.

ANSI/BHMA Standard A156.29 addresses the performance of Exit Locks, Exit Alarms and Alarms for Exit Devices.

For more information, or to purchase copies of these or other ANSI/BHMA standards, visit BHMA’S bookstore at www.buildershardware.com. Standards can also be ordered by calling 800-699-9277. Purchased standards are available as printed documents or electronic files (PDF) for immediate download.
From Day One to Long-Term Success: Onboarding Strategies for Contractors
January 2026

The construction industry is facing one of its toughest challenges in decades. Companies are struggling to find enough skilled workers while competing to keep the ones they have. At the same time, projects are becoming more complex, deadlines are tighter,

Finding the Right PPE for Your Work
January 2026

When it comes to PPE, one thing’s for sure: safety isn’t one size fits all. The work you’re doing, where you’re doing it, and even what time of year it is, can all make a big difference in what gear actually works. Price, comfort, and job performance all

Back Injuries: The Real Cost and How to Prevent Them
January 2026

The mention of back injuries makes mason contractors cringe, and for good reason. Masons lift heavy objects every day, all day long. When a person sustains a back injury, it is serious. It affects every part of their life, from their ability to perform wo

Detailing for Durability: The 2026 Guide to High-Performance Stone Veneer Transitions
January 2026

Some of the most expensive failures involving manufactured stone veneer installations don’t come from the stone at all, but rather from the material transitions and flashing around it. Transitions are weak points in the overall cladding where water can fi