Why Every Business Should Have Emergency Exit Hardware?
by Issac Alvarez -
Every business owner in Georgetown knows that customer and employee safety is a top priority—but many overlook one of the simplest ways to ensure it: proper emergency exit hardware. Whether you manage a storefront, restaurant, school, or warehouse, having the right panic bars, exit alarms, and compliant hardware can make all the difference in a real emergency.
At Panic Bar King Georgetown, we’ve helped dozens of local businesses upgrade their doors with panic hardware, fire-rated bars, and ADA-compliant closers. Beyond safety, these upgrades can also prevent costly fines during inspections and reduce liability in case of an incident. Whether you’re just starting your business or updating an older facility, now is the time to take exit safety seriously. For help picking equipment, start with our guide on choosing the right door closer.
Contents
- Legal Requirements and Fire Code Compliance
- Types of Emergency Exit Devices (Panic Bars, Exit Alarms, etc.)
- Benefits of Installing Exit Hardware for Your Business
- Real Risks of Not Having Proper Exit Hardware
- How Emergency Exit Hardware Reduces Liability
- Choosing the Right Hardware for Your Building
- Installation Tips and Maintenance Best Practices
- Common Misconceptions About Exit Hardware
- Partnering with a Professional Locksmith for Installation
- Conclusion
- References
Legal Requirements and Fire Code Compliance
Emergency exit hardware is not just smart—it’s required by law in most commercial buildings. The International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA standards mandate panic hardware on exit doors for certain occupancy types, especially where 50 or more people may be present.
Georgetown building inspectors often check for UL-listed panic devices, fire-rated door closers, and signage. Failure to comply can result in steep fines or even temporary closure. If you're unsure what your space requires, check out our breakdown on fire-rated requirements.
Types of Emergency Exit Devices (Panic Bars, Exit Alarms, etc.)
The most common emergency exit device is the panic bar—a spring-loaded bar that unlatches the door with a push. These are standard on fire exits and can be paired with vertical rods or mortise locks depending on your door type. Panic bars must be operable without tools or keys during an emergency.
Exit alarms are another important feature. These sound an alarm when the door is opened, which deters misuse while still allowing safe egress. Some models include delayed egress features that sound a warning before unlocking. Learn how they work in our exit alarm guide.
Additional hardware includes automatic door closers, which ensure doors re-latch after opening, and electric strikes for secure access control. ADA-compliant levers and handles ensure accessibility for all users, including those with mobility limitations.
Benefits of Installing Exit Hardware for Your Business
The biggest benefit of emergency exit hardware is obvious—lives can be saved in the event of a fire, power outage, or active threat situation. Panic bars and alarms provide fast, safe egress and help avoid crowding and confusion at exit points.
Proper hardware can also lower insurance premiums and protect your business against legal claims. Many carriers reward businesses that meet safety standards with better liability terms. Panic hardware is also more durable and resistant to misuse than standard locks or knobs.
Beyond emergencies, it helps with everyday operations. Staff can exit quickly, deliveries are easier to manage, and unauthorized access is minimized. Learn how to select dependable commercial options in our post on finding local commercial hardware.
Real Risks of Not Having Proper Exit Hardware
Failing to install compliant emergency exit hardware can have serious consequences. In an emergency, doors that don’t open easily can cause panic, injuries, or even fatalities. For businesses in Georgetown, this also means potential lawsuits and failed safety inspections.
Buildings with outdated or non-functional exit devices may be red-tagged by inspectors, shutting you down until repairs are made. Insurance claims may be denied if non-compliance is proven, leaving you financially exposed. Don't take that risk—proper panic hardware is a small investment that protects your staff, customers, and business.
How Emergency Exit Hardware Reduces Liability
Emergency exit hardware reduces liability by proving that your business takes safety seriously. When a panic bar is installed correctly and clearly labeled, it allows occupants to exit quickly and confidently, reducing risk during an emergency.
If someone is injured because an exit was blocked, locked, or non-compliant, your business may be held liable. By choosing UL-listed and ADA-compliant hardware, you show due diligence and strengthen your legal position in case of an incident.
Choosing the Right Hardware for Your Building
Choosing the right hardware depends on your building layout, occupancy type, and door material. Wood, metal, aluminum, and glass doors each require specific hardware types. Fire-rated doors must include fire-rated panic bars and closers.
We recommend starting with a safety inspection or code review. Our locksmiths in Georgetown can evaluate your exits and recommend the correct certified hardware for each one. See our article on panic vs crash bars for a deeper dive into hardware types.
Installation Tips and Maintenance Best Practices
Install exit hardware according to manufacturer specs and local fire code. Mount bars at the correct height, ensure the latch aligns with the strike, and test doors to confirm they open with light pressure. Avoid installing locks or devices that restrict emergency egress.
Maintenance should include regular testing—monthly is ideal—along with lubrication and cleaning. Make sure labels remain legible and check that fire-rated devices haven’t been modified or tampered with. If your panic bar feels loose or doesn’t latch properly, learn how to fix it in our troubleshooting guide.
If your doors are part of a fire-rated assembly, don’t forget to include compatible closers. They ensure re-latching and play a critical role in fire containment. Always verify hardware is listed for use on fire-rated doors.
Common Misconceptions About Exit Hardware
“Only big buildings need panic hardware.” In fact, small shops, restaurants, and offices may still be required to install exit devices based on occupancy or fire code. Check local regulations to be sure.
“Crash bars and panic bars are the same.” Not quite. Panic bars meet specific fire and safety certifications. Crash bars may not be compliant. Learn more in our post comparing the two.
“I can install it myself.” While possible, DIY installations often result in failed inspections due to height issues, strike misalignment, or use of unlisted components.
“It’s too expensive.” Panic bars and compliant hardware are very affordable compared to the cost of fines, lawsuits, or building closure. And they last for years when maintained properly.
Partnering with a Professional Locksmith for Installation
Working with a professional locksmith ensures the hardware you install is code-compliant, secure, and properly aligned. At Panic Bar King Georgetown, our technicians are trained to work with all types of commercial door systems—from storefronts to fire exits.
We offer on-site inspections, fast installations, and emergency replacements. Whether you're upgrading a single door or an entire facility, we’ll help you choose the right UL-listed products and provide proper documentation for inspections.
We also assist with alarm integration, delayed egress systems, and ADA compliance. Our mobile locksmith team serves the greater Georgetown area and can often complete service same-day.
Conclusion
Every business—large or small—should invest in emergency exit hardware. It’s the key to keeping people safe, passing inspections, and protecting your business. Panic Bar King Georgetown proudly serves Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Leander, Jarrell, Round Rock, and Hutto, including zip codes 78626, 78628, 78633, 78641, 78642, and 76574.
References
- Best Panic Bar Systems – LockBlog
- Panic Hardware Fire Code Compliance – Buildings.com
- Understanding Door Hardware – DHI.org