Edina Locksmith: Panic Bars, Importance in Commercial Property
Today, having the right security features in place just can’t be ignored. If you are in charge of a business property, then you have to be aware of the importance of protecting the people who enter it. It is not always a matter of being worried about a break-in, either. You want to keep everyone safe, and there are many things you have to think about. You are about to discover information on panic bars and why this security feature is important for your commercial property.
A panic bar goes by a few different names, to include a press bar, push bar or crash bar. So you might hear it called any of these terms. This device can be connected to an alarm – something you could find beneficial. Properties that have them in place are going to include your local retail store, preferred movie theater, favorite restaurant, medical building that your primary care doctor works in or hospital, hotel, office and so on. The point is, this is a device you will see in many different locations, although, you might not have really noticed it before. So let’s explain how they function so you can have a better idea of whether or not it’s something you might need.
Panic Bar: What Is It?
A press bar makes a door open when a person comes in and presses on the bar. This is why it can be called a press bar or push bar. You might be wondering how this would be beneficial. Well, you wouldn’t need to turn a door knob and fumble around with it if there was a mass exit needed. The bar could easily be pressed down on while you and even a large group of people are running. The door would open right up. What situation would warrant a fast escape? A fire, for one. You could forget overcrowding at the exit door taking place, at least, you could help people get out more easily. When one pushes the bar, a latch retracts and consequently, the door opens up. So if you are looking for an easy escape during an emergency, or even an option that is more handicapped-accessible, a panic bar just might be for you.
Is This Something My Business Needs?
What sort of property do you run? A store that sells clothes? Do you have ownership of an entire mall? A grocery store that doesn’t use automatic doors? What about a college campus? Maybe you manage a medical building. Consider how much foot traffic is in and out of the building and do your research when it comes to International Building Code. You need to do what it takes to ensure those who enter your property are protected. Whether you are wondering, “Is a panic bar required?” or “I have about 50 people in my building at a time – do I need a panic bar?” you will be able to find the answers you need by checking with the appropriate code (International Building Code) or by asking a locksmith that serves your area. As a general point of reference, panic bars are needed if you have an occupancy of 50 plus persons or if you have high hazard occupancies.
Panic Bars Are Able to Expedite Mass Exits
We previously mentioned the idea of overcrowding and mass exits. If something happens at your property that leaves a large group of people needing to get out fast, then you are going to want to facilitate this in any way you can. You don’t want trampling to occur. You don’t want injury to occur. A panic bar can help people who are in a rush during an emergency to avoid falling and being trampled.
Panic Bars Come in Many Options
From the Detex alarmed panic exit device that is available for less than $200 and boasts features such as a 100 decibel alarm, the ability to reset the alarm, and corrosion resistance to the Harney Hardware narrow stile panic exit device that can be used on doors up to 42 inches wide and can be cut to size, in addition to working with both right and left handed doors and being ADA compliant, you will see quickly that panic bars come in many options. Whether you want a vertical rod exit device, or are mainly concerned about having an alarm system, the options might seem endless. You biggest priority might be staying in a certain price range. We understand and recommend connecting with a licensed and insured locksmith to get the information you need. Of course, if you are in our area you are welcome to call us.
Edina Locksmith is proud to offer assistance with security features as a mobile locksmith. With us, you can take advantage of bonuses such as free consultations, so if questions arise about panic bars, all you have to do is ask. If you are in Edina, MN or the surrounding area, just give us a call for help and we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Have an Expert Carry Out Panic Bar Installation
No matter where you are we recommend having an expert install your panic bar so you can assure everything is done properly. Commercial customers can get the information they need on crash bar devices from an expert locksmith. Remember that there are many brands, price points and options. There are different materials. There are options for alarms and so on. You can even take advantage of key pad access. What more could you want? Options when it comes to protecting the people who enter your property is important. Don’t forget to ensure you are following the proper codes. Don’t forget to keep security at the top of your to-do list where it belongs. And don’t forget to check to see if some sort of insurance discount is available for having a crash bar in place. It’s always worth checking these things. Thanks for learning about the importance of panic bars for commercial properties such as your own!