Panic Devices
We service and repair all major commercial lock brands for any lock, even if we don't sell it we can fix it or replace it. Capitol Locksmith offers fast, reliable, and experienced locksmith services for Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Emergency Panic Devices
The panic lock is designed to save lives, it is also known as; panic bar, a crash bar, or a panic device. This form of commercial lock is used to provide quick unlocking of a door in an emergency situation. The lock is designed for compliance with local and federal laws.
When panic locks are used on emergency exits, it is a spring-loaded metal bar fixed horizontally on the inside of the door. It performs by activating a mechanism that unlocks the door when the lever is pressed releasing the lock. This allows the door to push outward for escape purposes.
A classified panic mechanism must meet these requirements:
- Release easily when pressure is applied to the push bar. It must easily open in the direction of exit travel
- Have a push bar with a pressure of 15 pounds or less for easy use
- Cover at least half of the width of the door, making it easy to use in emergency situations
Meeting Codes and Requirements
According to the International Building Code Requirements (IBC), panic locks for emergency doors are required in three different situations:
- In assembly situations where the occupant load is greater than 50 people
- In educational situations where the occupant load is greater than 50 people
- In high-hazard occupancies, no matter how many people
These requirements are only in place on doors that have a lock/latch system. If it’s merely push/pull hardware without a locking mechanism, these rules don’t apply.
Call for a free quote on the installation of commercial panic locks. (301) 213-5353
Some locations, commercial buildings are required to follow the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) safety code, requirements are panic hardware to be in place in four separate situations:
- In assembly situations with more than 100 people
- In educational situations with more than 100 people
- In daycare situations with more than 100 people
- In high-hazard situations with more than 5 people
