PANIC HARDWARE
What to consider when choosing panic and emergency exit hardware
Alison Aston , Lead Category Manager – Safety Products at ASSA ABLOY
» WHEN DISASTER STRIKES WITHIN A building , it is essential that exit hardware is fitted and correctly specified , so that occupants are able to leave as quickly and safely as possible . There are many types of exit hardware available , and the type you should install depends on several factors . It ’ s also essential to ensure that all exit hardware meets the relevant legislation .
Here ’ s a brief guide to the main things locksmiths should keep in mind when choosing exit hardware .
Panic hardware versus emergency hardware
There are two types of exit hardware – panic hardware and emergency hardware . Both are designed to enable building users to escape through doors that are otherwise locked from the outside to prevent entry into the building , but have different scopes of application .
Panic hardware is designed for use in buildings where those inside are less familiar with the exit route . It consists of a long metal bar that covers at least 60 % of the door ’ s face and is activated by a simple push of the bar . The hardware can be a touch bar that lies flat against the door skin or a push bar that is suspended above the door face from 2 end units making it ideal for glazed doors . Pushing the bar retracts the locking points ( such as latch or shootbolts ) and opens the door , making it perfect for people trying to leave the building in a hurry . The bars are fitted on outward opening doors due to the push operation , but also to avoid being a hazard to the flow of traffic during evacuation .
Most commonly found in buildings where members of the public will be present , such as hotels , shopping centres , and event spaces , panic hardware must conform and be CE and / or UKCA marked to EN 1125 .
‘ There are many types of exit hardware available , and the type you should install depends on serveral factors ’
Emergency hardware , on the other hand , is used in settings where those inside are aware of both the exit route and how the exit device works . Consisting of a smaller push pad or handle , emergency hardware is likely to be found in places such as factories , warehouses , and offices , where employees will be familiar with all the exit routes , how to operate the exit hardware and will have had the necessary training and inductions . All emergency hardware must conform and be CE and / or UKCA marked to EN 179 . Emergency exit devices can be installed on outward opening doors ; however , some models are suitable for use on inward opening doors as well .
Security
In addition to the British Standards governing panic hardware and emergency hardware , both can be included in PAS24 doorset testing and approval . This provides added peace of mind to the building owner and users ; thanks to the burglary resistant abuse testing this involves .
For the more extreme end of security , there are also escape hardware products , that have been included in LPS 1175 doorset testing . This is multi-level testing offering different ratings against forced entry from low to extreme attack levels . Products tested to middle or higher end of
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NOVEMBER 2023
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