In a recent Q&A on the FacilityCare website, consultant Brad Keyes answered a question about lower bottom rods.

Q: I have been asked about the requirements for the use of the lower bottom rod hardware in cross-corridor egress doors that provide positive latching and building separation. For aesthetic reasons, we wish to remove the bottom flush bolts, removing from the floor the ugly recessed catch. Is it required by code to have the lower bottom rod, or is this more of a question for the hardware manufacturer?

A: Work with the manufacturer of the door hardware. Do what the company says is required in order to maintain the fire rating of the door assembly. A missing lower bottom rod is likely to be observed during a survey, and if you have documented proof from the door hardware manufacturer that the lower bottom rod is not required, then you should be safe.

Read the complete answer.