Quick One Locksmith, LLC: Panic Bars – Importance in Commercial Properties
What is a panic bar for? Is this something a commercial property has to have? How does it work? Is it the law? If these are questions you’re asking, then you’re asking the right questions as a commercial property owner or manager! We applaud you for being mindful of your security because this is incredibly important. To answer the basics, a panic device is a mechanism used for opening door that is used by pressing down on a bar.
You’re probably wondering – how important is it to have a panic bar for your commercial property? The answer is it’s very important. These were designed to prevent trampling and crushing/crowding during an emergency exit. In numerous commercial properties, a panic bar is the primary method of opening a door to get out of the property.
With a panic bar, you have an easy system. You press down on a bar or what you might otherwise refer to as a “rod” and then the latch is retracted. When this happens, you can open the door, and you can open it fast. The panic bar operates thanks to a pair of arms on either side of the bar. It’s easy because all you have to do is press down on the device and the door will open. Not only is this important during an emergency but it also offers handicapped-accessibility which is important.
Where Would One See A Panic Bar?
Panic bars are devices you can find all over the place, specifically in commercial properties. Those properties might include campuses, hospital settings, offices, and more. Since it goes on the inside of a door, you don’t have to worry about it being misused to break into your property.
An exit device or panic bar typically goes on a door that is mandated by law to have panic hardware installed. Checking into different codes will tell you what is required where you are or in your specific situation. Check the International Building Code if you are unsure.
Do you have an educational facility? Does your building hold more than 50 people at a time? Do you see high traffic? If so, a panic bar is very important for you to have.
Panic Bars Can Be Required In Accordance With Codes
We mentioned a code to check into earlier. We also encourage you to check out the National Fire Protection Association Code. Knowing that you are doing things the way you are supposed to is important.
You need to be prepared if an emergency were to come up. A panic bar can allow you to protect the people who enter your property by enabling you to be prepared in the best way possible.
If a fire were to happen which we hope it never does, would the people trying to escape your property end up trampling each other to get out? What about a robbery, would anyone be able to get out fast without potentially fumbling around trying to unlock or open a door knob?
These are not the only reasons as to why panic bars are important, though. Having a panic bar installed at your commercial property might equate to you getting lower rates for insurance. Surely you look into discounts when it comes to car insurance and health insurance so you should look into it when it comes to your business property as well. After all, you are going to have a lot of expenses if you own a business, so saving wherever possible is always a good thing.
Panic Bars Are Imperative
Yes, panic bars are important to have. Did you know your panic bar can come with an alarm, too, if you so wish? There are commercial exit devices available which weigh, for example, only 8 pounds. But we are highlighting the types of devices that are battery powered and come with holes so you can make adjustments. But the best part of these is that they can come with an alarm. This can be very beneficial during an emergency.
Make sure if you get yours that you have yours installed correctly. This will entail turning to an expert. You are going to want a licensed and insured locksmith for the job, and that’s where we come in. Or, if you are not located in our service area, it’s where your search for a reputable locksmith serving your location comes in.
The points mentioned above are just some things to think about if you are starting to wonder about panic bars. Yes, it’s true that the importance of having a panic device for your property can’t be disputed, and we hope we have done a good job of making this clear. If you think you might want a fire exit device installed at your property, and you happen to be located in our service area, give us a ring because we would be happy to help you. Here at Quick One Locksmith, LLC in Miami, FL we want to make sure local business owners have everything they need to be successful.
If a mass exit were to ever be something that was happening at your property, then you would want to be as prepared as possible. If you had the chance to save the lives of your colleagues, customers and so on, wouldn’t you do it? What if the panic device allowed them to get out fast enough that they could get out without injury? Be prepared by having a panic bar.
Take a few moments of your time to book a free consultation with a locksmith, like us. With us, we offer flexible appointments and price estimates, too. Just remember that if you aren’t in our service area that you make sure to hire a locksmith you can trust. Make sure they are trained, professional and of course licensed. We are glad you are taking the time to look into panic bars because this is indeed a very important security feature!