Boosting Your Facility’s Security with Panic Hardware

Panic hardware, often called crash bars or push bars, is an essential component of commercial buildings, providing a safe and efficient means of exiting a facility in emergencies. These devices are designed to allow rapid egress, ensuring that occupants can quickly evacuate a building in case of a fire, security threat, or any other emergency.

With Action Lock Doc’s experienced team, you can count on expert advice and impeccable installation for your panic hardware requirements. Allow us to guide you through the crucial considerations in selecting the right panic hardware solution for your commercial space, guaranteeing the safety and security of both employees and visitors alike.

Understanding Panic Hardware: Types and Components

Panic hardware consists of horizontal bars or push pads installed on exit doors, which, when pushed, unlock the door and allow occupants to make a quick exit. Various types of panic hardware are available, each with unique features and benefits.

1. Rim-Style Panic Hardware: This type mounts on the surface of the door and consists of a latch mechanism that locks the door into the frame. It remains the most common type of panic hardware due to its simple design and ease of installation.
2. Vertical-Rod Panic Hardware: This design uses rods that extend vertically from the crash bar to the top and bottom of the door, providing additional security by locking the door into the head jamb and threshold. This type is ideal for double doors or facilities requiring enhanced security.
3. Concealed Vertical-Rod Panic Hardware: Similar to the vertical-rod type, this option conceals the vertical rods within the door, offering a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and better protection from tampering.
4. Mortise Panic Hardware: This system integrates a mortise lock with a built-in panic function, offering the highest level of security and durability. It is ideal for facilities where robust and reliable locking solutions are necessary.

Panic Hardware Applications and Suitable Commercial Settings

The installation of panic hardware is required by building codes in specific commercial settings to ensure the safety of occupants. Depending on the type of facility, one type of panic hardware may be more appropriate than others.

1. Office Buildings: Rim-style panic hardware can suffice for most office environments, providing a secure and cost-effective means of preventing unauthorized entry while ensuring safe egress for employees.
2. Educational Institutions: Schools and universities often require more secure panic hardware solutions. Concealed vertical-rod or mortise-style devices can provide the higher level of protection necessary and deter potential intruders who might attempt to tamper with externally visible components.
3. Retail and Entertainment Venues: Shopping centers, movie theaters, and other large public spaces often have high occupancy and require easy-to-use, reliable egress solutions. Whether concealed or surface-mounted, vertical-rod hardware may be best suited for these situations to ensure maximum security and smooth evacuation during emergencies.
4. Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities: In environments with heavy machinery and hazardous materials, robust, long-lasting panic hardware is critical. Mortise-style hardware provides the necessary durability and reliability to withstand the demands of an industrial setting.

Benefits of Installing Panic Hardware in Your Facility

Panic hardware offers several advantages that can improve the overall safety and security of your commercial property.

1. Rapid Emergency Egress: Panic hardware allows occupants to quickly exit the building during emergencies, minimizing the risk of injury or loss of life by ensuring that large crowds can efficiently evacuate without facing obstacles or being delayed by locked doors.
2. Code Compliance: Installing panic hardware in appropriate commercial settings is necessary to meet building code regulations and fire safety requirements, avoiding possible fines or legal disputes that could result from noncompliance.
3. Enhanced Security: Panic hardware can prevent unauthorized entry by securing doors from the outside while still allowing occupants to exit quickly. The various types of panic hardware, such as concealed vertical-rod devices, can provide additional security against forced entries and tampering.
4. Liability Reduction: As a property owner or manager, ensuring that your facility is equipped with panic hardware can help minimize your liability in the event of an emergency. Providing a safe, code-compliant environment demonstrates a proactive approach to occupant safety and reduces the potential for negligence claims.

Expert Panic Hardware Installation and Service with Action Lock Doc

A properly functioning panic hardware system is only as reliable as its installation and maintenance. Choosing a professional locksmith service like Action Lock Doc can ensure your facility benefits from high-quality hardware and expert installation.

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Our team of skilled technicians will work with you to assess your facility’s unique requirements and recommend the most suitable panic hardware solution, considering factors such as your building’s layout, occupancy, and security needs.
2. Expert Installation: The Action Lock Doc team ensures that your panic hardware installation adheres to local building codes and industry best practices, guaranteeing that your system functions efficiently in the event of an emergency.
3. Ongoing Service and Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your panic hardware system is essential to ensure continued functionality and compliance with safety regulations. Trust Action Lock Doc’s experienced professionals to provide periodic inspections and necessary repairs to keep your system functioning optimally.

Securing Your Facility with Panic Hardware: The Action Lock Doc Difference

Installing panic hardware is a critical aspect of commercial property safety and security, offering numerous benefits, including rapid egress in emergency situations, code compliance, and reduced liability. By partnering with a trustworthy and experienced provider such as Action Lock Doc, you can ensure that your facility is equipped with the most reliable and suitable panic hardware solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. 

Contact Action Lock Doc today to discuss how our team of professional locksmiths in Plano can help secure your commercial property with expert panic hardware installation and service. Don’t compromise the safety of your business. Trust our skilled locksmiths to provide the best security solutions. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.

Joe Cavanaugh( CEO )

Joe, a former CIO and tech industry professional, has made it his mission to secure Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) through the Action Lock Doc, Dallas Safe and Vault, and Summa Security brands. When he’s not running the show at the office, you’ll find him writing about commercial and residential locksmithing, access control, and safes.