Fire panic hardware

FIRE PANIC HARDWARE

What is panic hardware?
Panic hardware is an escape device that features an activation bar that covers at least 60% of a door face. When the bar is pushed, the mechanism retracts the latches or bolts holding the door shut and the door swings open to enable escape. Panic exit devices, tested to EN1125, are a legal requirement for use in public access areas as they are very easy to use without any prior knowledge.
Emergency hardware, on the other hand, is an escape device operated by a small pad, paddle, or handle. When the device is operated, the mechanism releases the latches or bolts holding the door shut. Due to the small contact point that will release the door, emergency exit devices, which are tested to EN 179, are intended for use in restricted areas where all users are familiar with the building layout and know how to use the hardware. They are also for buildings that are used by fewer than 60 occupants.

What is the difference between panic and emergency hardware?
Panic hardware (covered by EN 1125) is an escape device that features an activation bar that covers at least 60% of a door face. When the bar is pushed, the mechanism retracts the latches or bolts holding the door shut and the door swings open to enable escape. Panic exit devices are a legal requirement for use in public access areas as they are very easy to use without any prior knowledge.
Emergency hardware (covered by EN 179) is an escape device operated by a small pad, paddle, or handle. When the device is operated, the mechanism releases the latches or bolts holding the door shut. Due to the small contact point that will release the door, emergency exit devices are intended for use in restricted areas where all users are familiar with the building layout and know how to use the hardware. They are also for buildings that are used by fewer than 60 occupants.
If there is any uncertainty about final application and/or users, specify a panic exit device to meet EN 1125.
What is the purpose of CE marking?
The purpose of CE marking is to certify that a product has been assessed by an independent third party and deemed to meet the EU standards for ability to escape and/or fire door usage. All products produced and marketed for the EU must feature the CE mark.
As of 1st January 2023, following Brexit, the CE mark will no longer be recognised in Great Britain, and all new products must carry the UKCA mark instead.

Can an exit door also be used as an entry door?
That is possible, as long as it features a form of access from the outside. This is called an outside access device (OAD), which are designed to give lockable entry from the outside of a door secured by panic or emergency exit hardware.
Most often OADs are either operated by a knob or a lever. Installing one of our lever-operated devices can help meet the requirements of BS 8300 for barrier-free access and offer easier operation. However, as knobs are traditionally more difficult to abuse so can be more suited to exposed locations. It is critical that any outside access device is tested and certified for use with the internal hardware, otherwise, it won’t be compliant.

Can I use a fire exit as a normal door?
Yes, as long as it complies with the regulations for fire doors (including how it is opened from the inside and how well-signposted it is), and is never blocked.

Can I add or replace escape hardware?
Yes, that is possible, however, it is important to ensure that any replacement hardware has been tested and certified together with the internal hardware. Failure to do this will mean the door is non-compliant. For example, you cannot replace an OAD unless it has been tested with the internal hardware.