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Exit Devices

Exit Devices

Exit devices, also called panic bars or panic hardware, let people leave a building by pushing a bar across the door, even in a crowd or an emergency. Building and fire codes require panic or fire exit hardware on many doors, such as exits from assembly, educational and high-hazard spaces, so the right device depends on your door, your opening and your local code.

B&H Depot carries commercial exit devices from Von Duprin (98/99, 33A/35A and 22 Series), Sargent (80 Series), Falcon (25 Series), Detex, Marks USA and Adams Rite, with outside trim, electrified options and parts.

Types of Exit Devices

Rim exit devices: latch into a strike on the door frame. The most common type for single doors, and used on pairs with a removable mullion.
Surface vertical rod (SVR): rods latch at the top and bottom of the door. Common on pairs of doors without a mullion.
Concealed vertical rod (CVR): rods run inside the door for a clean look; used on metal and aluminum doors.
Mortise exit devices: work with a mortise lock body in the door edge for heavy-duty openings.
Narrow stile devices: made for aluminum storefront doors.

Trim Functions

Outside trim controls access from the other side of the door. Common functions are exit only (no outside trim), night latch (key retracts the latch), passage (lever always works), classroom (key locks or unlocks the lever) and storeroom (lever always locked, key opens). Lever trim is often handed, so check the door handing before you order.

Fire Rated and Electrified Exit Devices

Fire exit hardware is labeled for use on fire-rated doors and does not have mechanical dogging (holding the latch retracted), because a fire door must latch every time it closes. Electrified options such as electric latch retraction, electric trim, request-to-exit switches and alarmed devices connect your exit hardware to access control and alarm systems.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between rim and vertical rod exit devices?

A rim device latches at the edge of the door into a strike on the frame. A vertical rod device latches at the top and bottom of the door, which is useful on pairs of doors without a center mullion.

Are panic bars required by code?

Many building and fire codes require panic hardware on exit doors from assembly, educational and high-hazard spaces above a set occupant load. Check the code that applies to your building.

What does fire rated exit hardware mean?

It is listed for use on fire-rated door assemblies. Fire exit hardware latches the door every time it closes and does not have mechanical dogging.

What is dogging on an exit device?

Dogging holds the push bar down and the latch retracted so the door can be pushed or pulled open without latching. It is used during business hours on non-fire-rated doors.

How do I choose the right length?

Exit devices are sold for a range of door widths, commonly 3 ft and 4 ft. Choose the size that covers your door width and cut the device to fit if the instructions allow.