Exit Devices Demystified: The Essentials for Building Security

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Imagine a bustling commercial space—a shopping mall, an office building, or a concert hall. Amidst the daily hustle, there’s a silent guardian ensuring swift exits in emergencies: the exit device. While many may pass them without a second thought, these unassuming crash bars and panic bars play a crucial role in the safety tapestry of our public spaces. Now, let’s delve into the world of exit devices, understanding not just their mechanical intricacies but exploring scenarios where they transform from overlooked hardware to lifesaving mechanisms.

What Are Exit Devices?

To be thorough, an exit device is a door hardware in which allows doors to remain locked from the outside when necessary. People inside the building, however, can still exit the same door quickly without having to unlock the door. Sound familiar?

The Importance of Exit Devices

A property owner who wishes to restrict the public’s ability to enter a building to just a few select doors can apply crash bars to all non-public entrances. No one is able to open these doors from the outside when locked. In the event of an emergency, such as a fire, those inside the building can use these locked doors as an emergency exit by pushing against the crash bar of the inside of the door. The term “panic bar” came to be applied to such devices because they can be opened quickly in an emergency. Panic bars are also advantageous because people with limited mobility and small children can initiate them.

A Little Bit of History

The first exit device was invented in the early 1900s under Von Duprin. The company continues to be the leading manufacturer of panic bars and crash bars today, though other companies have now copied their original design. This is in large part due to new technology that has allowed for the creation of lighter and stronger materials to be used in addition to modern security control. The result is that there is now a wide range of quality devices that are available for purchase on the market. It is often recommended consulting a Portland locksmith regarding the type of exit device that would be right to a certain business property.

Industrialized countries of today all have some type of building code standard that dictates how a panic bar or a crash bar should be installed to commercial and public buildings. A commercial locksmith will have the proper knowledge and skills to provide and install the proper device. For over a hundred years, many lives have been saved thanks to devices such as panic bars.

Common Malfunctions

Sometimes the panic bar may start malfunctioning. If the panic bar ever starts to slide off, some screws may be loosening and need to be tightened. There are a few different screws, and it’s important to only deal with the necessary ones in order to avoid damaging the lock from inside. If an exit device is malfunctioning, it will be a good reason to call upon a professional locksmith in Portland. If your panic bar breaks due to constant use or an aggressive shove, don’t wait to have it repaired in order to stay consistent with building ordinances. Broken panic bars can either have problems locking compromising security or it will have trouble unlocking which would be a hazard to the people inside the property. Panic bars can easily be installed or restored by an experienced locksmith.

Real-world Scenarios

The Urgency of Exit Devices In Public Venues

Consider a crowded concert venue where attendees are immersed in the rhythm of the music. In the event of an emergency, the need for a swift exit becomes paramount. Here, exit devices, those trusty panic bars, come into play. With a simple push against the crash bar, the exit doors unlock, providing a safe and quick escape route for the masses.

Exit Devices Role In Work Places

Picture a high-rise office building with restricted access points. Exit devices, strategically placed on designated emergency exits, ensure that during a fire or other crises, employees can evacuate efficiently. These devices not only save time but, more importantly, they can be a lifeline in situations where every second counts.

The Use of Exit Devices In Retail Settings

In retail settings, crash bars on stockroom doors serve as a security measure. When closed, these doors restrict public access, preventing unauthorized entry. However, in the event of an emergency, these exit devices swiftly turn a secure door into an accessible exit, safeguarding both merchandise and lives.

Last Words

These examples underscore the dynamic role of exit devices beyond their static presence. It’s not just about the hardware but the transformative impact they have on our safety and security in real-world scenarios. The history and mechanisms of exit devices, while fascinating, find their true significance in these practical applications, where lives and property are safeguarded by the simplicity of a well-designed panic bar. If you are a business that is looking for exit devices services, contact us, Advantage Locksmith Portland has the vast experience with all exit devices services.