If you have ever been in a shopping center, school or large office building, there is a good chance you have either entered or exited the facility through a door that has a panic bar installed. Panic bars can be a huge asset in emergency situations.

They consist of a spring loaded, metal bar and attached horizontally across the interior of the door. When pushed, the door is unlatched instantly, allowing fast and easy access out of the building with the door opening outward, rather than inward.

These are essential because in larger facilities or buildings if an emergency occurs, people tend to panic, running and crowding the exits. If the wrong type of doors are installed, it can actually do more harm in emergency situations, since a large group will be stopped from exiting, having to turn a knob or pull a door open.

This will reduce the speed of the evacuation and increase the chances of injuries due to falls, leading to a total, disorganized mess.

Some of the specific benefits offered by panic bars in your commercial space include the following:

• A safer option
• There are a large number of panic bar sizes and styles to choose from
• They are an affordable option
• Potential to reduce your insurance costs since building safety is enhanced

If your commercial facility does not currently have a panic bar installed at exits, it is a good idea to look into the benefits they offer now. This will make a building safer and easier to exit in an emergency situation.