Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 24-12-2024 Origin: Site
Exit devices play a critical role in building safety and accessibility. Often referred to as panic bars or push bars, these devices are essential for ensuring safe and efficient egress during emergencies. Whether you’re constructing a new building or upgrading an existing one, understanding the types of exit devices available can help you make informed decisions to improve safety and compliance.
In this article, we’ll explore different types of exit devices, including panic exit devices, rim exit devices, and specialized options for aluminum doors and lever handles. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of these devices and their essential functions in modern infrastructure.
An exit device is a door hardware component specifically designed to allow people to exit a building quickly and easily, particularly in emergency situations. It typically consists of a bar or pad that, when pushed, releases the door latch and opens the door. Exit devices are predominantly found on public buildings, schools, hospitals, and other high-occupancy areas where swift evacuation is crucial for safety.
● Quick and Easy Use: A simple push activates the latch. No prior knowledge or dexterity is needed.
● Emergency-Friendly: Built for fast egress during emergencies like fires or active threats.
● Secure Yet Accessible: Allows exit without compromising building security when correctly installed.
● ADA Compliance: Ensures buildings are user-friendly for people with disabilities.
A panic exit device, as the name suggests, is optimized for high-pressure situations when people need to leave quickly, often in panic. These are mandated by building codes in many locations to prevent tragedies such as stampedes or blocked exits during emergencies.
Many regional and international building codes require panic exit devices for buildings of specific sizes or occupancy levels. For instance, schools, places of worship, and shopping malls typically require panic hardware on exit doors.
Panic exit devices are designed under the assumption that users may be unfamiliar with the door or stressed in an emergency. Users simply push against the bar to release the lock without additional tools or instructions.
When shopping for panic exit devices, you’ll often encounter the term UL-certified or UL-listed panic exit device. The UL certification is an industry standard signifying rigorous testing for performance, reliability, and safety.
◆ Fire resistance for specific durations (e.g., rated up to 90 minutes).
◆ Compliance with strict standards for durability and operation under stress.
◆ Verified protection against forced entry when paired with compatible locks.
Among the many types of hardware, rim exit devices are especially popular due to their simplicity and versatility. They are surface-mounted to the door without requiring recessed installation, making them especially useful for retrofitting existing doors.
● Latch Mechanism: Rim exit devices use a horizontal latch positioned on the inside of the door.
● Strike Plate:The latch engages with a strike plate mounted on the frame or door jamb. Once pushed, the latch pulls away from the strike, allowing the door to open.
Unlike concealed exit devices that require significant modifications to the door, rim devices are mounted on the surface, reducing both time and labor required for installation.
Rim exit devices can be installed on a variety of door types, making them ideal for both retrofitting and new construction.
With a simpler design, rim devices often cost less than their concealed counterparts.
Aluminum doors present their own set of challenges when it comes to choosing the right type of hardware. Fortunately, rim exit devices are a popular solution for these types of doors due to their lightweight construction and durability.
Aluminum doors are often hollow and lightweight, requiring equally lightweight hardware to function effectively. Rim exit devices are ideal in such cases.
Many manufacturers produce rim exit devices specifically for aluminum doors, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation.
Aluminum doors are often used in external applications. Rim exit devices designed for these doors often include protective coatings to withstand diverse environmental conditions.
Rim exit devices for aluminum doors are commonly used for retail shops, office buildings, and other premises where light, highly functional exterior doors are needed.
While traditional rim exit devices operate via a push bar, there are versions available with lever handles that provide additional functionality and convenience.
Lever handles are ergonomically designed, allowing individuals of varying physical capabilities to operate the door easily.
Combine the security of standard rim exit devices with the convenience of lever handles for areas that require frequent access.
Lever handles can be customized to match the door’s design, ensuring visual harmony while maintaining functionality.
Lever handle-equipped exit devices are often used for areas requiring both easy egress and controlled entry, such as office suites, high-traffic retail doors, or conference facilities.
When deciding on the ideal exit device for your building, consider the following factors:
◆ Door Material: Aluminum, wood, or steel? Choose a device suited for the door type.
◆ Building Use: For high-traffic areas, invest in UL-certified panic exit devices.
◆ Aesthetic Preferences: Match handles and finishes to the building’s interior design.
◆ Compliance: Ensure the device meets applicable building and fire safety codes.
Safety is not just about compliance—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you're managing a retail space, a school, or a corporate office, installing the right exit device is an investment in operational efficiency and life safety.
Your options range from UL-certified panic exit devices for high-occupancy buildings to rim exit devices for aluminum doors and specialized solutions like devices with lever handles. With countless models available, there’s a perfect option for ensuring both safety and design harmony in any space.
If you'd like assistance choosing the right exit device, contact our team of experts today!
