What Are Panic Bars & Why Should You Install Push Bars for Emergencies?

Whenever emergencies strike, even milliseconds matter a lot. Whether it’s a fire, an active threat, or simply a sudden evacuation, faster and safer exits can efficiently save lives. That’s where panic bars, also well-known as push bars or crash bars, come into play. Panic bars are considered the most crucial security systems for smooth and secure emergency exits in schools, hospitals, retail stores, and other public buildings during major emergencies.

But do you even know what exactly they are and why they are considered a must-have safety feature for commercial properties across Orlando, Florida? In this blog, we'll discuss everything about panic bars to help you make a wise decision for your safety.

What Is a Panic Bar and How Does It Work?

A panic bar is well-known as a horizontal metal bar that is attached to the inside of a particular door. Moreover, instead of turning the knob or key like you usually do, you just have to push the bar to open the door within seconds.

These bars are specially designed for functional emergency exit doors. When optimal pressure is applied to the bar, the door automatically unlocks—no need for twisting, turning, or even pulling. Plus, in some high-stress situations, the overall simplicity of panic bars makes a significant difference.

Why Are Panic Bars Crucial During Emergencies?

In emergencies, when panic sets in and people become anxious to find a clear path, panic bars control the overall situation to create an easy and safe exit. Moreover, panic bars are developed to enable a faster, crowd-safe exit even when visibility is extremely low or people don't know where to go.

Here’s how panic bars save lives like a superhero:

Quick Exit Access: No keys or knobs- simply push and exit.
Crowd Flow Efficiency: Perfect for spaces where foot traffic is high.
Compliant with Fire Codes: A lot of building codes in Florida require highly functional panic hardware for emergency exits to control the crowd.
Safe in Darkness or Smoke: Their horizontal design makes them quite easy to locate and use even during low-visibility situations.

Without panic bars, evacuation becomes slower than you can even dream, and potentially a dangerous one too. That’s why they’re now considered a necessary security standard in both commercial and public properties.

Are Panic Bars Only for Emergencies?

While primarily designed for emergency exits, panic bars also help in maximizing daily functionality in the long run. Various models now seamlessly integrate with access control systems, alarms, and door monitoring devices to ensure top-notch security and convenience, all in one place.

Here’s how they make our daily life easier:

Prevents potential unauthorized entry from outside
Restrict access while keeping exits as simple as possible
Integrate with fire alarm systems for better management
Minimize daily wear and tear on door handles and locks

Thus, panic bars can serve as both emergency exit tools as well as a major part of a building’s overall security system to avoid potential security threats in the long run.

How Do Panic Bars Improve Legal and Safety Compliance?

Both building and fire codes usually require high-tech panic hardware for some specific doorways, especially for those buildings that host the public or accommodate more than 70-80 people at a time.

Here's how failure in installing proper exit systems might result in:

Hefty fines during safety inspections
Liability in case of an emergency injury
Insurance issues due to non-compliance with necessary laws
Overlooked risk to human life during real emergencies

All American Locksmith—one of the best locksmith providers in Orlando, Florida—offers top-notch push bar installation services by strictly complying with all the state and local standards to ensure your business is well-protected from potential risk, both legally and physically, without any hassles.

Can Panic Bars Be Customized to Match My Doors?

Of course. Panic bars are available in a wide range of styles and finishes, ranging from minimalistic stainless steel for modern offices to powder-coated bars for industrial settings.

You can also look for:

Alarmed panic bars
Vertical rod exit devices
Panic bars with outside lever trim for re-entry
ADA-compliant bars for better accessibility

Final Thoughts

Emergencies are always unpredictable, but you have to be prepared for all situations, every time. Panic bars in Apopka, Orlando & across Florida are considered a very simple yet powerful way to protect lives, comply with necessary safety standards, and also give your visitors as well as employees a much-needed confidence that makes them feel highly secure even in the worst conditions.

Do you also want to upgrade your existing emergency exit systems with panic bars? Then, contact All American Locksmith in Orlando & across Florida today to schedule your professional panic bar installation in Orlando, Florida, without any hidden charges. Visit us today to protect yourself and your business, both legally and physically,y at a time.