Complete Locksmith Services
Automotive - Residential
Commercial
Quality service is just a phone call away.
Menu
Navigating the world of panic bar and emergency exit devices here in Cleveland can be confusing. That’s because the size and nature of your business or residential space can impact the safety requirements for your setting. After all, you wouldn’t expect a huge venue like the Rocket Arena to have the same egress protocol than a smaller indie concert hall like the Foundery.
Whether you have a storefront on Superior Avenue, a restaurant in the Warehouse District or a residential building in Cleveland Heights, you’ll want to know more about what panic bar installation is right for you. Here at Advanced Lock and Key, we’ll make the process simple and safe, and get you ready for inspection!
There are many styles of exit devices designed to meet the safety needs of spaces with different functions and capacity. Here are a few of the most basic designs you’ll choose from as a property owner in Cleveland:
These devices, which typically feature a crash bar or push bar, are mounted to the surface of the door at the latch level. They can be installed with or without an alarm and can be used on single doors or double doors with a mullion.
Mortise locks differ from standard rim exit devices in that the lock is housed with a pocket inside the door. This provides additional security, but comes at a higher price point.
Both rim and mortise devices are common in public spaces and residential settings for use in hallways or areas without a high capacity.
Vertical rod exit devices are typically used on double doors without a center mullion. With this design, the crash bar disengages the latches that are mounted on the top and bottom of the door. The rods can be mounted onto the surface of the door or concealed within the door for a more streamlined look.
These are likely the kinds of doors you’ll walk through after a Cav’s game, for instance.
One of the most common questions that property owners ask us is what the difference is between emergency exit devices, panic exit devices and fire-rated exit devices.
First of all, emergency exit device is a broad term, with both panic devices and fire-rated devices being used in emergency situations. But, the functionality of the two types of emergency devices is what’s important.
A panic exit device has more lenient functionality, in that it can be dogged (or held in an open position) and mounted on a door that is not fire-rated. The main purpose of a panic exit device is that it allows for the free and quick egress of people in the case of an emergency.
A fire-rated emergency exit device is a lot more restrictive in its requirements. This type of device cannot be dogged and must re-latch after opening. It also must be mounted onto a fire-rated door that can withstand a certain amount of heat. This is because fire-rated exit devices are meant not only to allow people to leave quickly in an emergency but also to prevent the spread of a fire through containment.
Certain commercial settings, such as financial institutions and hospitals, require exit devices that provide egress in an emergency without creating security risks. In these situations, an electrified exit device can allow for more control over egress and monitoring of exits on the property. Delayed egress is another modification that can prevent an emergency exit device from being opened without authorization, often keeping the door closed for 15 seconds while an alarm sounds.
Now that we’ve covered some of the considerations that go into choosing the right exit device, what can you expect when you call a locksmith like our team here at Advanced Lock and Key for installation?
Our first step in installing the right exit devices for your setting will be to assess what the building code requires for your occupancy needs and operation. For example, Ohio building code stipulates that in areas with an occupancy of 50 or more, doors must be outfitted with panic hardware or fire exit hardware instead of a traditional latch or lock. There are also specific considerations in the Cuyahoga County residential building code, such as Ordinance 1351.31 which stipulates that all dwelling units must have free egress to an outdoor area in the case of an emergency.
Because there are multiple sources of building regulations that need to be referenced in order to ensure compliance, you want a team of experts on the job who can put together a security plan for your unique setting.
Once we have an understanding of what kinds of devices will be required for your setting, we can get more specific about the kind of hardware to order. Some clients, for instance, prefer the added security of mortise locks, while others will want a more budget-friendly option in low-security areas. We’ll also talk to you about your options for design features, such as whether you prefer concealed rods for a more sleek design or exposed rods for easier maintenance.
Another benefit of hiring an experienced locksmith company to install your exit devices is that we won’t leave until we’re sure that everything is in good working order. For electrified exit devices and alarmed doors, we’ll make sure to run tests and troubleshoot any errors so that you can have a fully-functional system in no time.
Passing inspection can be anxiety-inducing for property owners and business owners, but Advanced Lock and Key is here to make the process stress-free. Rely on us to make sure that your exit devices are well-suited for your needs, code compliant, and ready for inspection. We’re here for you every step of the way so that you can fly through the inspection process and open your doors to the public!
No matter what kind of commercial or residential property you have here in Cuyahoga County, Advanced Lock and Key can help you understand your exit device requirements. Give us a call with your questions and we can put together a security and safety plan that is right for you!
With over 20 years of experience, our trusted crew will assist you in any problem you may have quickly and efficiently. Our main goal is to give you service as fast as possible, and let you go back to your everyday routine.
Copyright © Advanced Lock And Key. All rights reserved.