Exit devices may sound foreign to you, but you’ve likely encountered many of them every time you go into a public building or place of business. They are also known as panic devices, panic hardware, panic bolts, and crash bars and their job is to ensure people can quickly exit but no one can get back in.
A licensed locksmith provides ample information regarding exit devices for your building or business.
And, as such, they’re meant to be utilized for emergencies only. Exit devices offer a lot of advantages in safety and security and may be required as part of the code of your building.
Below we go over some of the most common types of exit devices you’ll find available to install in your building or place of business.
Rim Style Exit Device
This is the most common and widely used exit device for public spaces. This type involves a latch or bolt that is mounted on the inside of the door. You’ve seen them in many places, they appear to be a push bar across the door that is affixed to the door’s surface space rather than hidden inside the door’s mechanisms. They can be used both for single and double doors.
Mortise Style Exit Device
This is the next level of the rim style exit device. A mortise style device utilizes a mortise lock within the structure of the rim. This lock is within an internal pocket of the door and work to keep it locked from the other side. These are commonly used in places where there is high traffic and need for security (like side entries to apartment buildings or restaurants).
Vertical Rod Exit Device
The third most common exit device is the vertical rod. These are most commonly found on double doors, though they can be used on single doors as well. These involve a rod at the top and/or bottom of the door that extends into the doorframe to keep it locked at all ties. When the panic device is employed, the rods retract allowing the door to open but closing and locking it behind any person exiting.
Additional Questions
How do I know which exit device is right for my building?
This is going to depend what codes are in place in the area you do business. There may be fire rating requirements, noise level restrictions, or restrictions based on the type of doors you have in your building. There are plenty of exit device options to choose from but they’re not one size fits all.
Is a deadbolt door an exit device?
Doors that utilize deadbolts are not considered exit or panic devices because they require a key to operate which we’re willing to bet your customers don’t have access to. Exit devices can be operated by anyone looking to utilize the exit simply by engaging the device through a push, knob turn, or other physical maneuver. Need help deciding? Contact a commercial locksmith today about your exit device needs.
Action Locksmith is located in Michigan and has been providing commercial solutions for businesses and retail locations throughout the state for over 30 years. Our vast experience in all areas of locksmithing, hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction has made us the most trusted locksmith around.
So, whether you need re-keying, new door installation, help with a safe or camera system installation, we are here to help!