Panic Hardware for Commercial Doors: What You Need to Know

Safety is not just a feature; it also makes a work environment secure. An often-overlooked hero is at the heart of that foundation: panic hardware for commercial doors. If you own a business or building, knowing the ins and outs of this safety feature is important as it could save lives in an emergency. This newest blog from South Pasadena Lock explores the world of this exit device. With this hardware, the safety of your staff and customers is just a press away.

This read is not just another technical guide but a story explaining panic hardware’s whys and hows. It offers useful information and a positive view of the safety of your business space. We have all the information you will need, from the finer points of installation to the big picture of upkeep. So keep reading as we reveal the details that will make your building safer and more secure.

Understanding Panic Hardware

Panic hardware, also known as a panic bar or panic device, is essential to commercial door safety. Typically, it is a metal bar with a spring located horizontally on a door that opens outward. When you push the bar, it sets off a device that unlocks the door, making it easy and quick to get out of the building. You can rely on these devices on emergency exits and fire doors when you need to get out of a building quickly and easily. Panic bar installation can make a big difference in commercial buildings, where every second counts in an emergency. 

The Importance of Proper Panic Hardware Installation

Panic hardware on your exit doors can save lives in a fire or other emergency. However, panic hardware installation is not a DIY project—it is a job for a professional commercial locksmith. If you let the pro install the panic bars properly, you can be sure they will work when you need them the most. Yet, putting the hardware on the door is only half the job. You also have to make sure it meets local safety and building codes. 

Factors to Consider When Installing Panic Hardware

Installing panic hardware on your commercial doors is not a decision to take lightly. Here is a list of key factors you should consider, each one crucial for ensuring the safety and compliance of your exit doors:

Door Type and Material

Not all exit devices are the same. The kind of panic bar you need will depend on the type of door you have, whether metal, glass, or wood. For instance, glass doors might need special mounting kits, and metal doors might need more robust hardware.

Local Safety Codes and Regulations

Before installation, you need to know the safety rules that apply in South Pasadena and the nearby areas. Some doors, for example, may need fire-rated panic hardware due to building codes. Following the rules keeps you on the right side of the law and ensures everyone in the building is safe.

Egress Requirements

Consider the flow of traffic through the exit door. How many people need to exit quickly in an emergency? This factor will impact the width of the door and the type of panic device needed. Higher traffic areas typically need more durable hardware to withstand the usage through the years.

Accessibility

Hardware, such as panic bars, must meet ADA standards to allow persons with disabilities to use them. Consider factors like height and ease of use to guarantee that everyone can safely leave a building in case of an emergency.

Aesthetic and Design

While safety is the primary concern, you do not have to sacrifice appearance. Panic hardware comes in various styles and colors to match the style of your building. Choosing a model that fits your door style and meets safety guidelines is important.

Security Needs

Panic hardware, designed for safe egress, must also meet your building’s security requirements. For instance, there are exit devices equipped with built-in alarms and delayed egress systems that allow for controlled exit in certain situations. Also, some have lock/unlock features that help keep people from getting in without permission while allowing for a safe exit if needed.

Installation Expertise

Installing panic hardware is not something that a non-expert should do. So make sure you hire a licensed locksmith who has installed panic bars before for a quick and successful installation.

Budget Considerations

While you cannot put a price on safety, you have to work within a budget. There are choices at different price points, but do not skimp on important features just to save money. A well-installed, high-quality panic hardware is an investment in your safety that will pay off in the long run.

It is important to think about these things before installing panic hardware. All these will help you get the safety and dependability you, your workers, and your customers deserve.

Maintenance on Panic Hardware is Key

Like any other mechanical device, panic door hardware needs regular upkeep to ensure it works well. It is easy to forget maintenance, but think about what would happen if an exit door stopped working in a disaster. If you call a skilled locksmith to check a panic door regularly, they can find small issues before they become big. A pro can spot broken screws, worn-out springs, and parts out of alignment. Simple maintenance can mean the difference between safe egress and a blocked exit in an emergency.

The Role of a Commercial Locksmith

A locksmith does a lot more than just make keys and install locks. They are also very important for ensuring your panic hardware is safe. South Pasadena Lock, for example, can help you choose the right panic bars, install them, and keep them in good shape. A reliable emergency locksmith can take away a lot of your stress and worry when keeping your business doors safe. They can also advise you on the newest technologies and safety features that will keep your building up to date.

Press the Panic Device to Exit Safely

In South Pasadena, every business owner knows the value of being prepared for the unexpected. Having panic hardware on your exit doors is not just a regulatory checkbox but an investment in safety and peace of mind. Panic bars stand as silent guardians, ready to act in the blink of an eye, ensuring that when a crisis arises, your staff and customers are a push away from safety.

Do not forget how important it is to install and keep panic hardware in commercial doors working. To keep your business safe for everyone, do not forget to have your commercial locksmith do regular maintenance checks.

Commercial Locksmith Near Me

Is your business equipped to handle an emergency exit swiftly and safely? At South Pasadena Lock, we specialize in top-notch panic hardware and other commercial locksmith services to secure your premises. Trust us to set your exit device up to the highest standards. If you own a business in South Pasadena, let us make your emergency doors more reliable. Do not wait until it is too late; ensure your business doors are safe and up to code today. Call us for professional help that brings peace of mind.