Exit doors are one of the first things a fire inspector checks, and one of the easiest things for a busy business to let slide. This guide covers the basics of panic hardware so you know what to look for and when to call a professional.
Panic hardware vs. fire exit hardware
Panic hardware is the push bar or push pad that releases the latch when someone pushes on it in the direction of travel. It lets people get out quickly without having to find and turn a handle, even in a crowd or in the dark.
Fire exit hardware looks similar but is also tested and listed for use on fire-rated doors. If a door is part of a fire-rated assembly, such as a stairwell door, it needs fire exit hardware, not standard panic hardware.
Which buildings need it?
In Florida, exit hardware requirements come from the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code. Whether a particular door needs panic hardware depends mainly on:
- How the space is used (its occupancy classification). Assembly spaces such as restaurants, bars, churches and event venues, as well as schools and high-hazard spaces, are the most common cases.
- How many people it’s designed to hold (its occupant load). Requirements typically kick in once occupant load passes a threshold set in the code.
- The type of door and room. Some rooms, such as certain large electrical equipment rooms, have their own requirements.
The building and fire codes don’t always use the same thresholds, and your local fire marshal (the authority having jurisdiction) has the final say. If you’re opening a new business, changing how a space is used or adding seating, confirm the requirements with them before installing hardware.
Common problems inspectors flag
- Extra locks on exit doors. Chains, padlocks, slide bolts or deadbolts added to a door with panic hardware can trap people inside and are a frequent violation.
- Bars that stick or need a hard push. A panic bar should release with normal pressure every time.
- Doors that don’t latch. Fire-rated doors must close and latch on their own. A worn closer or misaligned strike can stop that from happening.
- Improper “dogging” on fire doors. Dogging holds the latch retracted so a door can be pushed open freely. Mechanical dogging isn’t allowed on fire exit hardware.
- Blocked exits. Stock, furniture or trash bins in front of an exit door, inside or out.
Delayed egress and alarmed exits
Businesses that deal with theft sometimes want an exit that sounds an alarm or delays opening for a few seconds. These devices are allowed only in certain occupancies and under specific conditions, such as fire sprinklers or detection systems and required signage. Always get approval before installing one.
Accessibility
Under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, operable parts of door hardware on accessible routes, including panic bars, generally need to be mounted between 34 and 48 inches above the floor and usable without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist.
Keep your records
Fire door assemblies are required to be inspected at least once a year, and many occupancies also require periodic inspection of doors with panic hardware. Keep invoices for installations, repairs and adjustments with your inspection records.
How we can help
We install and service panic bars, vertical rod exit devices, fire exit hardware, alarmed exit devices and door closers for businesses across Lee County. We can repair or adjust hardware that sticks or won’t latch, replace worn devices and provide itemized invoices for your records. Call (239) 412-2998 or request a commercial quote.
This article is general information, not legal or code advice. Building and fire code requirements vary by building and change over time. Confirm specific requirements with your local building official or fire marshal.