Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 06-01-2026 Origin: Site
When you walk into a shopping mall, a hospital, or an office building, you probably don't think twice about the hardware on the doors. But in an emergency, that hardware becomes the most critical component of the building's safety system. Panic bars—also known as crash bars or exit devices—are designed to allow fast, unhindered egress when seconds count.
However, not all buildings are the same, and neither are the doors that secure them. From single glass doors to double fire-rated steel doors, different scenarios require specific types of hardware to meet safety codes and security needs.
If you are an architect, building manager, or contractor, understanding the differences between the various types of exit devices is crucial. This guide breaks down the different types of panic bars, how they function, and where they are best used, helping you make an informed decision for your facility.
While there are many variations in design and finish, panic bars generally fall into three main categories based on how they latch and secure the door. These are Rim Exit Devices, Mortise Exit Devices, and Vertical Rod Exit Devices.
Here is a quick comparison of the three primary types:
Panic Bar Type | Locking Mechanism | Best Application | Security Level |
|---|---|---|---|
Rim Exit Device | Surface-mounted latch bolt | Single doors, standard exits | Moderate |
Mortise Exit Device | Mortise lock embedded in door | High-traffic commercial doors | High |
Vertical Rod Device | Top and bottom latches | Double doors | High |
A Rim Exit Device is the most common and easiest type of panic bar to install. It is mounted on the surface of the door and features a latch bolt that projects from the device into a strike plate mounted on the door frame.
Why choose a Rim Exit Device?
Because the hardware is surface-mounted, it requires minimal preparation of the door itself. This makes it an excellent choice for retrofitting older buildings or for standard single doors where high-level integrated security (like a mortise lock) isn't necessary.
However, rim devices can also be used on double doors if a removable mullion (a vertical post separating the doors) is installed. This allows two rim devices to be used side-by-side, latching into the center post.
A Mortise Exit Device offers a higher level of security and durability. Unlike the rim device, the locking mechanism (the mortise lock body) is embedded inside a cavity (mortise) within the door edge. The panic bar on the surface operates this internal lock.
Why choose a Mortise Exit Device?
These are ideal for high-traffic areas and buildings requiring robust security. Because the locking mechanism is inside the door, it is less susceptible to tampering. Brands like Zhongshan Keyman Locks Products Ltd. specialize in ANSI Grade 1 mortise locks, which are tested to withstand millions of cycles, ensuring they last for years in busy environments like schools and hospitals.
When you have a set of double doors without a center mullion, a standard rim device won't work because there is no frame for the latch to strike. This is where the Vertical Rod Panic Exit Device comes in.
This system uses rods that extend from the push bar to the top and bottom of the door. When the bar is pushed, the rods retract, releasing latches at the top of the door frame and the floor.
There are two main variations of this device:
Surface Vertical Rod (SVR): The rods are visible and mounted on the face of the door. This is easier to install and maintain.
Concealed Vertical Rod (CVR): The rods are hidden inside the hollow of the door. This provides a cleaner, more aesthetic look and protects the rods from damage, but requires precise door preparation.
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Why choose panic bars for exit doors with vertical hardware?
They are the best solution for double doors where you need a wide, unobstructed opening for moving large equipment or accommodating heavy foot traffic.
The material of the exit device dictates its durability, fire rating, and aesthetic appeal.
Aluminum devices, such as the X8 Aluminum Fire Rated Panic Exit Device, are lightweight yet incredibly strong. They are corrosion-resistant, making them a versatile choice for many commercial applications. The Keyman X8 series, for example, is UL 10C fire-rated for 3 hours, combining safety with the sleek look of aluminum.
For environments that demand the highest level of toughness and hygiene—such as hospitals or coastal buildings—stainless steel is the preferred material. Devices like the Keyman X9 Stainless Steel Series offer heavy-duty performance and are resistant to rust and harsh cleaning chemicals.
This is a critical question for building compliance. Not all panic bars are fire-rated.
Panic Hardware: Designed purely for fast egress. These are typically used on exterior doors that are not fire doors. The latch mechanism can be "dogged" (held retracted) to allow free entry and exit during business hours.
Fire Exit Hardware: These must be used on labeled fire doors. By law, fire exit hardware cannot be held open (dogged) mechanically; the door must positively latch every time it closes to prevent fire from spreading.
Manufacturers like Keyman provide UL/ANSI Fire Rated Panic Exit Devices that meet rigorous safety standards (such as UL 10C and ULC-S104) to ensure the hardware holds the door shut during a fire but still opens easily for escape.
Selecting the right device goes beyond just "rim vs. vertical rod." Here are the factors you must consider:
Door Type: Is it a single door or a double door? Is it made of wood, metal, or glass?
Traffic Volume: High-traffic areas need ANSI Grade 1 hardware for longevity.
Security Needs: Do you need an alarm kit to alert you when the door is opened? Do you need electric latch retraction for an access control system?
Aesthetics: Does the hardware need to match specific architectural finishes?
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The safety of a building's occupants relies heavily on the quality and suitability of its exit devices. whether you need the simplicity of a rim device, the security of a mortise lock, or the functionality of a Vertical Rod Panic Exit Device for double doors, choosing the right hardware is essential.
Always look for certified hardware that meets ANSI/BHMA standards and UL fire ratings. By partnering with reputable manufacturers like Zhongshan Keyman Locks Products Ltd., you ensure that your facility is not only secure but also compliant with the highest safety regulations.
If you are currently planning a project or need to retrofit exit devices, visit Keyman Locks to explore their full range of X8 Aluminum and X9 Stainless Steel exit devices.
