Doors Locked During Fire Alarm?

Q: We seem to have an urban myth here, due I think to poorly planned electrified hardware. I am hoping you will confirm for me that this is not true, and correct me if I am mistaken. Many times, when the fire alarm system is in alarm (testing or set off), doors with card-readers become locked, not in the path of egress (free egress is permitted) but in the path of getting into the secured space. That may be where there is a patient awaiting care. I know of no code which would require this, but some people here say it’s required by code to keep people from getting back into where the fire is. I don’t believe it is a code requirement to have the door remain locked, but can you confirm? It’s certainly poor patient care.

A: I should never say “I’ve heard it all,” but after hearing that myth, what other silliness is still out there?! No, that is not true. There is no NFPA code or standard that requires you to lock the door into a room (not in the path of egress) that is on fire. Pardon the expression, but what a ridiculous idea.