Difference between Panic Bars and Crash Bars: Understanding Commercial Door Hardware

Commercial buildings are required to have emergency exit doors that are easy to open from the inside during an emergency evacuation. Two types of devices commonly used for this purpose are panic bars and crash bars. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are significant differences between them in terms of design, function, and code requirements. In this article, we will explore the differences between panic bars and crash bars to help you choose the right commercial door hardware for your building's safety requirements.

What are Panic Bars?

Panic bars, also known as push bars or exit devices, are horizontal bars that are installed on the inside of the door and are designed to be pushed to release the latch and open the door. They are used primarily in emergency exit doors and are required by building codes to ensure safe egress during an emergency evacuation. Panic bars are typically operated by pushing the bar in the direction of the exit, which releases the latch and allows the door to swing open. They are easy to operate, even by people who are not familiar with the building's layout, and do not require any special knowledge or training to use.

What are Crash Bars?

Crash bars, also known as crossbars or touchbars, are vertical bars that are installed on the inside of the door and are designed to be pushed to release the latch and open the door. Unlike panic bars, which are designed to be pushed horizontally, crash bars are designed to be pushed vertically or at an angle. They are used primarily in high-traffic areas such as airports, hospitals, and supermarkets, where people may be carrying bulky items or pushing carts. Crash bars are designed to withstand high-impact collisions without causing injury to the user, hence the name "crash bar".

Differences between Panic Bars and Crash Bars

While panic bars and crash bars may look similar, there are several key differences between them in terms of design, function, and code requirements. These include:

• Orientation: Panic bars are horizontal bars that are operated by pushing in the direction of the exit, while crash bars are vertical bars that can be pushed in any direction, including up or at an angle.
• Usage: Panic bars are designed for emergency exits and are required by building codes for safe egress, while crash bars are designed for high-traffic areas where people may be carrying bulky items or pushing carts.
• Impact resistance: Crash bars are designed to withstand high-impact collisions without causing injury to the user, while panic bars are not.
• Code compliance: Panic bars are required by building codes for emergency exits and must meet specific requirements for size, operation, and accessibility, while crash bars may not be required by code in all jurisdictions.

Which Commercial Door Hardware is Right for Your Building?

Choosing the right commercial door hardware for your building depends on a variety of factors, including building codes, occupancy types, and safety requirements. In general, panic bars are required by building codes for emergency exits and should be installed on all emergency exit doors. Crash bars, on the other hand, are not always required by code and are primarily used in high-traffic areas. However, they can also be used in emergency exit doors as long as they meet the code requirements for size, operation, and accessibility.

If you're not sure which type of commercial door hardware is right for your building, it's best to consult with a professional locksmith or a commercial door hardware supplier. They can help you understand the specific code requirements in your jurisdiction and recommend the best products to meet your building's safety requirements.

Conclusion

While panic bars and crash bars may look similar, they serve different purposes and have different code requirements. Panic bars are required by building codes for emergency exits and are designed to be pushed horizontally in the direction of the exit, while crash bars are primarily used in high-traffic areas and can be pushed in any direction, including up or at an angle. Choosing the right commercial door hardware for your building depends on a variety of factors, including building codes, occupancy types, and safety requirements. It's important to consult with a professional locksmith or a commercial door hardware supplier to ensure that you are meeting the specific code requirements in your jurisdiction and providing a safe and secure environment for your building's occupants.

Commercial door panic bars and exit device hardware are available at www.autodoorandhardware.com.

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