Panic Bars Offer Safety and Security

In the early 1900s, the panic bar was invented to prevent people from being trapped inside a building during a fire. Panic bars are now a required safety feature in all commercial buildings. Modern panic bars can be used on fire doors, time-delayed doors, and delayed exit systems. Mechanical and electric exit devices offer superb security and safety.

A basic, mechanical panic bar can be installed on fire exit doors or any door that needs the security of being locked on the outside but able to open from the inside. For example, back doors of offices, warehouses and retail business may opt for this type of locking mechanism. The best panic bars meet ANSI A156.3 - 2001 Grade 1 criteria. For the greatest security, choose panic bars that offer more than 2,000 pounds of static load force resistance. This prevents intruders from pulling or prying the door open from the outside.

Electric panic bars can be tied into a fire alarm system to automatically unlock when the alarm is tripped. In addition, some models can be programmed to trip the alarm system when they are pushed open from the inside. Typically, these types of panic bars are used on buildings with high occupancy levels that utilize a fully featured fire and security alarm system. Another function of electric panic bars is to control exit through a delayed exit system. These mechanisms allow security personnel to monitor access to and from the facility.

On new construction, door frames can be designed to accommodate the installation of the newest panic bar designs that include a more secure double latch mechanism and technology that makes bar operation quieter and smoother. When retro-fitting existing doors, look for panic bars that easily install in the existing panic bar footprint without having to do expensive door preparation.

The final consideration in selecting and installing panic bars is what type of trim to use on the exterior of the door. If the door is not intended as an entrance, then no trim is necessary or you may choose to install a night latch that includes a key lock with or without a handle. Other options include a dummy handle, a handle with a thumb latch and key lock, or a lever handle with a key lock. Panic bars can be designed to lock on the inside either with a hex key or a cylinder lock. Electric models often do not include an interior mechanical locking option and can only be locked and unlocked through the security system. Expect to pay $600 and up for quality panic bars; electric options raise the cost to $1000 and up.