subject: Smallwood Lock Supply Exit Devices [print this page] An exit device is known by many namesAn exit device is known by many names. These include panic hardware, fire exit bolt, crash bar, panic bar, panic device, push bar and cross bar. A "panic bar" style door mechanism that allows a door to be locked from the outside but can still be easily opened from inside to make an exit. An exit device consists of a horizontally fixed, spring loaded metal bar inside of an outward-opening door which helps in unlatching a door. Usually they are used with one way doors but if needed can also be used with two way doors by mounting another type of door handle on the other side
There are three types of exit devices, rim devices, vertical rod exit devices and mortise locks.
Rim exit devices are self contained mechanisms for door locks. They have a surface-mounted latch or a bolt located within the center chassis or case that slides over the surface-mounted strike. Unlike other current exit devices, rim exit devices have less parts and pieces. These are comparatively low maintenance devices and require minimal adjustments. Absence of chains eliminates the possibility of tampering & forced entry and offers increased security.
Vertical rod exit devices can be used for both single and double doors. These are available in two types, surface mounted versions or the concealed versions. Vertical rod exit devices can be configured as top and bottom rod, or top rod only, commonly known as Less Bottom Rod. The rods connect the device"s push pad to the top and bottom latches of the door.
Mortise lock, also known as mortice lock, is a lock fitted in a pocket cut into the door or a piece of furniture. It is not designed to operate as an exit device. It is often installed onto the active leaf of a pair of doors. The mortise lock style exit device incorporates a mortise lock normally without deadbolt mounted in the door pocket. When the push bar is pressed, the spindle or tail shaft rotates retracting the latch bolt, permitting the door to swing out. These are generally found in old buildings but have now become common commercial and up market residential construction.
An Exit Device may or may not be key operated from the outside. These devices are listed by a nationally recognized independent testing laboratory and have been investigated for panic and are also under in-plant follow-up inspection service.
