What Is an Exit Device That Integrates with Building Security Systems?

An exit device that integrates with building security systems is commonly known as a Powerized Exit Device or Electrified Emergency Exit Device. It combines standard panic hardware with electrified components—such as request-to-exit switches, latch bolt monitoring, and power transfer hinges—so a door can communicate directly with a building's access control, alarm, or fire panel.

This integration lets facility managers monitor door status in real time, restrict entry from the outside while always allowing free egress, and trigger alarms or lockdowns automatically when a door is opened without authorization.

How Does a Powerized Exit Device Work with Security Systems?

A Powerized Exit Device works by using low-voltage electrical signals to communicate a door's status—locked, unlocked, latched, or open—to a central security or access control panel. Electric latch retraction models can also be remotely unlocked by a security operator, without compromising the device's mechanical panic function.

Key integration components typically include:

• Request-to-Exit (REX) switches: Signal the security system when someone exits, so an alarm isn't falsely triggered.

• Latch bolt monitoring: Confirms whether the door is securely latched or has been propped open.

• Electric power transfer hinges: Route electrical wiring safely from the frame to the door without exposed cabling.

• Electric latch retraction (ELR): Allows remote unlocking for authorized access while preserving instant panic-release egress.

Because these devices are electrified, they must remain fail-safe for life safety: regardless of power status, the device must always allow immediate exit from inside the building.

Why Integrate Exit Devices with Building Security?

Integrating an Electrified Emergency Exit Device with building security systems delivers three main advantages:

1. Continuous door monitoring: Security teams can see, in real time, whether emergency exits are open, closed, or breached.

2. Centralized access control: Doors can be remotely locked or unlocked as part of a broader building management or lockdown protocol.

3. Code-compliant life safety: Even when electrified and networked, the exit device still meets panic hardware requirements, ensuring occupants can always exit without needing a key, code, or special knowledge.

What Standards Should an Electrified Exit Device Meet?

An Electrified Emergency Exit Device intended for commercial or institutional buildings should meet recognized life-safety and hardware standards, including:

• ANSI/BHMA A156.3 – Standard for Exit Devices

• UL 305 – Panic Hardware (Fire Vestibule Self-releasing, FVSR)

• UL 10C / ULC-S104 – Fire-rated door assemblies (commonly rated up to 3 hours)

Manufacturers such as Keyman Lock produce UL-listed, ANSI Grade 1 exit devices—including Aluminum and Stainless Steel series—alongside a dedicated Electrical Exit Devices line built for security-system integration.

What Options Exist for Electrified Exit Device Hardware?

Beyond the exit device itself, a complete electrified security integration typically involves:

• Exit Device Trim: Electrified trim that pairs with the device for controlled outside access.

• Electrified locks: Motor or solenoid-driven wireless ANSI mortise locks for doors requiring both latching and locking control.

• Intermediate Pivots: Heavy-duty electrified pivots that carry wiring through the door for concealed, reliable power transfer.

Choosing hardware that is designed to work together—rather than mixing standalone components—reduces installation complexity and improves long-term reliability of the security integration.

Frequently Asked Questions