How Does a Panic Exit Device Work?

A panic exit device, also known as a panic bar or crash bar, is an essential piece of hardware that allows people to quickly and safely exit a building during an emergency. Panic exit devices are often required by building codes and regulations for public buildings and areas with high occupancy. But how exactly do they work?

Mechanical Operation

Most panic exit devices operate mechanically, meaning they do not rely on electricity or any other external power source to function. Instead, they are designed with a series of interconnected mechanical components that allow the device to be easily opened from the inside, while also preventing unauthorized entry from the outside.

The basic components of a mechanical panic exit device include:

• The latch bolt: A spring-loaded bolt that keeps the door securely closed until someone pushes the panic bar. When the bar is pushed, the latch bolt retracts, allowing the door to open.
• The push bar: A horizontal bar that extends across the width of the door and is attached to the latch bolt. When the push bar is depressed, it disengages the latch bolt and allows the door to open.
• The dogging mechanism: A feature that allows the latch bolt to be held in the retracted position, keeping the door open until it is manually reset.
• The strike plate: The metal plate on the door frame that the latch bolt engages with when the door is closed.

When someone pushes the panic bar, the horizontal push bar rotates and depresses a mechanism that releases the latch bolt. This allows the door to be easily pushed open from the inside, providing a quick and safe exit route for occupants. If the dogging mechanism is engaged, the door can be kept open for an extended period of time, such as during a fire drill or other planned evacuation.

Electric Operation

While most panic exit devices operate mechanically, some models also feature electric operation. These devices are commonly used in buildings with higher security needs, such as government facilities or financial institutions.

Electric panic exit devices work similarly to mechanical models, but they also feature an electric latch retraction system. This system uses a solenoid or motor to retract the latch bolt when an electric signal is sent to the device, allowing the door to be opened electronically. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as a keypad or card reader.

Electric panic exit devices also often have a remote dogging feature, allowing the door to be held open or released from a remote location.

Conclusion

Panic exit devices are critical components of building safety and security, providing a quick and easy way for occupants to exit a building during an emergency. Whether mechanically or electrically operated, these devices are designed to withstand heavy use and provide reliable performance for many years.

At Automatic Door and Hardware, we offer a wide selection of panic exit devices to meet the needs of any commercial building. Our knowledgeable team can help you choose the right device for your specific application, and our competitive pricing ensures that you get the best value

Commercial door panic bars and exit device hardware are available at www.autodoorandhardware.com.