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Why was the panic bar invented?


Why was the panic bar invented?

A panic bar is a device that allows a door to be easily opened from the inside in case of an emergency. Panic bars are typically found on the doors of public buildings such as schools, hospitals, offices, and theaters. But why was the panic bar invented in the first place?

The history of the panic bar

The first patent for a panic bar was filed in 1908 by Carl Prinzler, a German inventor who recognized the need for a quick and easy way to exit a building in case of an emergency. Prinzler's design consisted of a horizontal bar that, when pushed, would retract the latch bolt and open the door.

Over the years, panic bars have evolved to become more sophisticated and reliable. Modern panic bars feature improved materials and construction, as well as additional safety features such as alarms and automatic locking mechanisms.

The importance of panic bars

Panic bars play a crucial role in building safety, allowing occupants to quickly and easily exit a building in case of an emergency. They are especially important in situations where a large number of people may be trying to exit the building at the same time, such as during a fire or other emergency.

By providing a single, easily accessible exit point, panic bars can help to prevent panic and confusion in emergency situations. They can also help to reduce the risk of injury or death, by allowing occupants to quickly escape from a dangerous situation.

Panic bar regulations and requirements

Because of their importance in building safety, panic bars are subject to various regulations and requirements. These regulations may vary by location, but generally require that panic bars meet certain safety standards and are installed correctly.

In the United States, panic bars are subject to regulations set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the International Building Code (IBC), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), among others. These regulations specify things like the height and width of panic bars, the force required to operate them, and the location and number of exits required for different types of buildings.

Choosing the right panic bar

When choosing a panic bar, it's important to consider factors such as durability, cost, brand reputation, and compliance with regulations. Working with a reputable and experienced installer can also help to ensure that your panic bars are installed correctly and are functioning properly.

At Automatic Door and Hardware, we offer a wide range of panic bars and other commercial door hardware products. Our knowledgeable staff can help you to choose the right panic bar for your building, and can provide expert installation and maintenance services to ensure that your panic bars are always in top working condition.

Conclusion

The panic bar is an essential safety feature in commercial buildings, providing a quick and easy way for occupants to exit in case of an emergency. By understanding the history and importance of the panic bar, as well as the regulations and requirements that
Commercial door panic bars and exit device hardware are available at www.autodoorandhardware.com.

Disclaimer: The material in this article has no regard to the specific installation, building code requirements, law requirements, authority having jurisdiction, local or state requirements, or any particular needs of any viewer. This article is presented solely for informational and entertainment purposes and is not to be construed as a recommendation or solicitation. Nor should any of its content be taken as advice. Automatic Door and Hardware is not an installation advisor. The views expressed in this article are completely speculative opinions and do not guarantee any specific result. Commercial doors, hardware, and automatic door parts should only be worked on by trained, qualified, and licensed professionals; failure to do so can result in danger. Any opinions expressed in this article are subject to change without notice. Automatic Door and Hardware is not under any obligation to update or keep current the information contained herein. Automatic Door and Hardware may have an interest in the securities and commodities of any entities referred to in this material. Automatic Door and Hardware accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of the use of all or any part of this material. Automatic Door and Hardware recommends that you consult with a licensed and qualified professional before making any modifications or repairs to commercial doors, automatic doors, or hardware components of those doors. The content covered in this article is NOT to be considered as advice. I’m NOT an adviser. These are only my own personal and speculative opinions, ideas, theories, hypotheses, charts, technical analysis, insights, and curated news publications. The technical analysis in this article is completely speculative and does NOT guarantee any specific result. The technical analysis in this article has NO proven rate of accuracy. Do NOT repair or modify your doors and/or hardware based upon the analysis presented in this article. Always do your own research and only use trained and licensed professionals for any repairs or modifications. I will NOT be held liable for any of your personal repairs or modifications or any losses/damages that you may incur if you do repair or modify your doors and/or hardware. Information provided through this article is provided to you as is without any express representations or warranties of any kind, and we make no representation or warranty that this article (or any information provided in response to your inquiry), will be accurate, complete, or error-free. You agree that you must evaluate all information and responses, and that you bear all risks associated with, the use of this article, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information or materials made available through this article. This article is purely for entertainment purposes only!

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