What is a panic bar? The correct name for a push bar, exit device, or emergency exit handle

What is the long bar installed on emergency exit doors?

In schools, hospitals, shopping malls, hotels, and factories, you’ve probably seen a long metal bar mounted across an emergency exit door.

During an emergency, instead of turning a handle, people can simply push the bar to open the door.

Some call it an emergency exit handle, while others refer to it as a push bar or an exit device. However, its proper name is the panic bar.

Why is it called a “panic” bar?

During an emergency, large numbers of people may move toward an exit at the same time.

In these situations, intuitive operation is more important than complex mechanisms.

A panic bar is designed to allow the door to open with a simple push, making it easy to use even without instructions or prior knowledge.

The term “panic” reflects its purpose: helping people exit quickly and instinctively during emergencies.

How does a panic bar work?

A panic bar is a horizontal bar installed on the inside of an emergency exit or fire-rated door.

When the bar is pushed, the door’s latching mechanism releases, allowing the door to open.

Unlike a conventional door handle, there is no need to grasp, turn, or pull the door. Simply pushing the bar is enough.

Why are panic bars important?

In environments where many people may need to leave through the same exit, even a few seconds can make a difference.

If an exit is locked, difficult to operate, or requires multiple actions to open, evacuation may be delayed.

Panic bars help people exit buildings more quickly and intuitively during emergencies.

Where are panic bars used?

Panic bars are commonly found in a wide range of buildings and facilities.

Educational facilities

• Schools
• Universities
• Training centers

Healthcare facilities

• Hospitals
• Care centers
• Medical facilities

Commercial buildings

• Department stores
• Shopping malls
• Theaters
• Hotels

Industrial Facilities

• Factories
• Logistics centers
• Warehouses

They are also commonly used in public buildings, stadiums, airports, and other facilities with high occupant traffic.

Are panic bars used on fire-rated doors?

Fire-rated doors help limit the spread of fire, but they must also allow occupants to evacuate quickly and safely.

When specifying doors, it is important to consider:

• Fire performance
• Ease of egress
• User safety
• Maintenance requirements

For this reason, fire-rated doors and panic bars are often used together in schools, hospitals, and public facilities.

What should you consider when selecting a panic bar?

Key factors to evaluate include durability,  fire-door compatibility, certifications and compliance requirements, ease of maintenance, integration with access control systems.

ASSA ABLOY panic bar solutions

ASSA ABLOY offers panic bar solutions for a wide range of building types, including schools, hospitals, hotels, factories, and logistics facilities.

Depending on project requirements, factors such as fire-door compatibility, durability, maintenance needs, and operational requirements can be considered when selecting the most suitable solution.

Which panic bar is right for your building?

The ideal solution depends on the building type, occupant profile, and operational requirements.

If you are planning a new project or upgrading an existing facility, explore ASSA ABLOY panic bar solutions and consult with our specialists to find the option best suited to your needs.