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Panic Bars vs Exit Bars - How Are They Different?

Jerry Fields • Nov 16, 2023

When it comes to securing commercial spaces and ensuring swift emergency exits, understanding the distinctions between panic bars and exit bars is crucial. Despite their visual similarities, these door locking devices serve different purposes, each with specific mechanics tailored to its function. In this guide, we'll delve into the nuances of panic bars and exit bars to help you make informed decisions about the safety features for your industrial doors.


What is a Panic Bar?

A panic bar, often referred to as a crash bar or panic device, serves a critical role in emergency situations. Specifically designed for life safety compliance, a panic bar incorporates a spring-loaded metal bar positioned horizontally inside an egress-opening door. The mechanism is straightforward: when the lever is pressed, the bar unlatches the door, enabling swift egress. This design is instrumental in preventing delays and overcrowding during emergencies.


Panic hardware is mandated by the 2009 edition of the International Building Code for specific occupancies, including Education (E), High Hazard (H), and Assembly (A) Occupancies, provided the maximum occupancy is 50 or more.


What is an Exit Bar?

In contrast, an exit device, also known as exit hardware or exit bar, features a bar situated across the interior of a door. The act of pushing this bar releases the door latch, facilitating easy egress. Standard exit devices are deemed appropriate for doors in occupancies other than E, H, and A, but only if the maximum occupancy is less than 50. Unlike panic bars, exit devices may require additional security measures such as a key or code for egress, as they do not adhere to the same stringent life safety standards as panic hardware.


When Do I Need a Panic Bar vs an Exit Bar?

To determine whether a panic bar or an exit bar is appropriate, it's essential to consider specific building codes and requirements. The distinction lies in the door's ability to 'dog' or hold the latch retracted.


  • Panic hardware, typically installed on exterior, non-fire rated openings, can be 'dogged' to reduce wear and noise from frequent latching and unlatching. This feature enhances convenience but may not be suitable for fire-rated doors.
  • In situations where a code mandates a fire-rated opening with an exit device, fire exit hardware must be used to ensure the door consistently latches when closed. These devices must adhere to the requirements of the UL 10C Standard for Safety Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies.


Both panic and fire exit hardware must be listed to UL 305 Standard for Safety - Panic Hardware according to the code. To ensure compliance and suitability for a specific project, it is advisable to collaborate with experienced specification consultants. They can guide you in selecting devices that are properly listed with UL or Warnock-Hersey for their intended applications, ensuring the safety and functionality of your industrial doors.

By Jerry Fields 06 May, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the demand for efficient and safe operations has never been higher. Industries are expanding, and the pace of operations is accelerating, requiring solutions that can keep up with the need for speed and safety. High-speed doors emerge as a critical asset in these fast-moving environments, offering unparalleled speed and reliability. What are High-Speed Doors? High-speed doors are specialized doors used in industrial settings to facilitate quick movement between areas, thus minimizing energy loss and optimizing workflow. Unlike traditional doors, these doors boast advanced technical enhancements allowing them to operate at significantly higher speeds. They are designed for high cycle usage – often operating millions of cycles – with minimal maintenance needs. Across North America and Europe, the types of high-speed doors vary, including materials like PVC, aluminum, and steel. Among the innovative designs, Zipper Doors are notable for their airtight sealing and rapid operation. Advantages of High-Speed Doors The benefits of high-speed doors are numerous. They enhance operational efficiency by allowing for swift transitions and minimizing air exchange, which is crucial in temperature-sensitive environments. These doors are highly resilient, suitable for a variety of applications, and customizable to meet specific industry needs. Their design also significantly improves safety by reducing the likelihood of accidents associated with slow-moving traditional doors. High-Speed Door Applications High-speed doors have a broad range of applications across various sectors: Food and Beverage Industry: Essential for maintaining controlled climatic conditions and functioning as efficient airlock solutions. Pharmaceuticals and Cleanrooms: Crucial in preventing contamination and maintaining high hygiene standards. Automotive Manufacturing: Improve logistics and production efficiency with their rapid open-close cycle. Cold Storage and Refrigeration: Critical in maintaining distinct temperature zones, crucial for product preservation. Chemical Manufacturing: Ensure compliance with ATEX legislation, enhancing operational safety. Retail and Supermarkets: Play a role in ensuring hygiene and safety for consumers. Aerospace and Aviation: Used in hangars to manage large openings effectively. Impacts on Profitability and Efficiency Integrating high-speed doors into an operation significantly impacts profitability and efficiency. These doors enhance logistical processes, save energy, and optimize traffic flow within facilities, directly contributing to a faster, more cost-effective operation. Types of High-Speed Doors Metal High-Speed Doors: Known for their durability and ease of maintenance. Rubber High-Speed Doors: Designed for extreme conditions, featuring safety mechanisms such as breakaway bars and self-reset capabilities. Fabric High-Speed Doors: Available in insulated and non-insulated forms, these doors offer flexibility, repairability, and cost-effectiveness. Choosing the Right High-Speed Door Selecting the right high-speed door involves considering the specific environmental conditions, application requirements, and budget constraints. Factors such as the level of insulation, desired speed, and expected frequency of use play crucial roles in determining the most suitable door type for a particular setting. By understanding the various types, advantages, and applications of high-speed doors, businesses can make informed decisions that enhance their operational efficiency and safety. Industrial Door Company is dedicated to providing top-quality solutions that meet these needs, ensuring that every door installation or upgrade significantly benefits your business.
By Jerry Fields 29 Apr, 2024
Fire doors are crucial components in the safety infrastructure of buildings, playing a significant role in preventing the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic fumes. In Sacramento, California, annual inspections of fire doors are not only recommended but mandated to ensure they function correctly in the event of a fire.  The Importance of Fire Doors Fire doors help maintain the compartmentalization of a building, slowing the spread of fire and smoke and providing crucial extra minutes for evacuation. However, a non-functioning fire door can jeopardize the entire safety system, putting property and lives at risk. Regulatory Requirements for Fire Door Inspections The adoption of the mandatory inspections outlined in the 2007 Edition of NFPA 80 by local jurisdictions underscores the necessity for buildings to have their fire doors inspected annually. This standard specifies that fire doors must be tested yearly and that a record of these inspections must be kept and made available to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Inspection Protocols and Documentation During an inspection, each fire door is assessed for compliance with NFPA 80 standards. Inspectors look for proper door labels, check the integrity of door assemblies, and ensure that the closing mechanisms function correctly. The findings, including any non-compliance issues, must be documented digitally to maintain clear records for AHJs and insurance providers. Common non-compliance issues often include improper gaps, faulty seals, or damaged door components. Services Provided by Industrial Door Company Industrial Door Company offers comprehensive fire door services, including adjustments, repairs, and replacements. We also provide a written report certifying compliance for each door and can assist with re-labeling of doors that have labels missing or painted over, which is crucial for compliance and safety standards​. Fire Permit Inspections in Sacramento In Sacramento, operational permit inspections are a part of maintaining building safety. Specific occupancy types, such as apartments, care facilities, and schools, may have additional requirements or self-certification programs to enhance their fire safety measures​. Pre-Inspection Recommendations Facility managers are advised to schedule pre-inspections to identify and rectify potential compliance issues before the actual inspection. This proactive approach can save time and ensure that the fire doors meet all regulatory requirements during official inspections​. For detailed information about fire door inspection and maintenance services, you can refer to our Fire Door Inspection page or contact us directly for personalized advice and service scheduling.
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