Panic Bar Installation in Indianapolis

Why panic bars are a code requirement, not a preference

Building and fire codes typically require panic hardware on doors serving assembly occupancies above a certain occupant load — restaurants, retail spaces, churches, and similar buildings — specifically so an exit can never be blocked by a locked or hard-to-operate door during an emergency.

Types of exit devices available

Rim-mounted devices work on single doors, while mortise and vertical rod devices are used on pairs of doors needing coordinated latching, often paired with an electric strike or alarm module for buildings that also want to monitor or control that exit.

• Rim exit devices for standard single doors
• Vertical rod devices for double-door pairs
• Alarm and electric latch retraction options for monitored exits

Integrating panic bars with other security

Panic bars can be paired with delayed egress alarms, access control readers on the outside, or fire alarm tie-ins so the door stays secure against unauthorized entry while never restricting emergency exit from inside — the two functions are handled by completely different mechanisms.