Panic Door Hardware FAQ

When an exit device is not functioning properly, the problem usually can be traced to one of the following factors:

• Poor fitting or alignment of door and frame

• Wrong lock or case

• Door prepared incorrectly

• Frame and/or door reinforcement incorrect

• Improper cylinder or installation

• Not mounted level

• Latch case not aligned

• Vertical rods not aligned

• Fasteners of wrong length

• Fasteners too loose or tight

• Operating trim not installed properly or binding

The requirement for using “exit device” or fire exit hardware usually is based on the occupancy classification of the building or area and the occupant load (quantity of persons using the facility).

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publishes the Life Safety Code, which designates when exit devices are required to be used in a building or space.

• Exit devices are required to be used on openings serving an occupant load of 100 people or more, and high hazard areas with occupant loads of 5 or more.

• NFPA 101 requires fire exit hardware to be installed on fire-rated openings in a means of egress.

The following lists a few of those factors.

1. Door Design 

2. Door Size 

3. Door Glazing

4. Building Code and Owner Requirements

5. Overlapping Astragals

Exit devices are available in two design styles:

The contemporary touch bar type

The touch bar type usually is a one-piece assembly consisting of a rectangular body extending from the lock stile to the hinge stile. A portion of the body protrudes away from the unit, acting as a touch bar (touch pad/contact from the unit, acting as a touch bar (touch pad/contact surface). Pressure against this touch bar will retract the latch or vertical rods at the end of the assembly.

The traditional cross bar type 

The crossbar type has two cases, a lock stile case and a hinge stile case. A conventional round cross bar connects horizontally across the door to both of them. Pressing the crossbar toward the door retracts the latch. 

Exit devices are used to secure openings while at the same time providing immediate egress in the case of emergency. 

An exit device is a piece of hardware mounted on the push side of a door. It is designed to release a latching mechanism in the event of panic. Exit devices are intended to operate without prior knowledge or training when pressure is applied to horizontal bar or push pad mounted to the door. 

Because of their direct effect upon life safety, exit devices are one of the most important hardware items in a building.