Sliding automatic doors

[Lyledunn]

Our Fire Safety Regulations (NI) 2010 do not permit the use of sliding doors as emergency escape doors. I understand statutory regulations elsewhere in the U.K. have similar stipulations. The requirement seems to be widely flouted. I note many designs/FRAs referring to the need for fail safe operation but the regulations don’t have caveats that would support their use in any situation. 
Any views?

[AnthonyB]

Whilst they are in deed Regulations the current regime stems primarily from an intention to deregulate fire safety - this is one of the consequences. You just give your advice you feel comfortable with, it will be followed or not, it's the way of things it seems!