Panic Bar Installation Austin Texas Okey DoKey Locksmith

06-05-2021 -

At Okey DoKey Locksmith, we specialize in professional panic bar installation and repair services to help protect your business. Panic bars, also known as crash bars, allow for easy and quick exits during emergencies, making them an essential part of any commercial building's safety system.

In this article, we will guide you through the importance of panic bars, their types, and why they are a crucial addition to your business. We will also discuss how Okey DoKey Locksmith can provide expert installation and repair services to ensure your doors comply with safety standards.

What is a Panic Bar?

A panic bar, also known as a crash bar or push bar, is a device installed on exit doors that allows quick and easy access during an emergency. Panic bars are designed for high-pressure situations, such as a fire or other emergency, where rapid evacuation is essential. By simply pushing on the bar, the door unlocks and opens, allowing for a fast and efficient exit.

Commonly found in commercial buildings like schools, hospitals, retail stores, and offices, panic bars are crucial for ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. These bars not only make exits easier during emergencies but also help prevent unauthorized entry from the outside.

Types of Panic Bars

There are several types of panic bars available, each designed for different doors and security needs. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right one for your business:

• Touch Bar Panic Bars: These are the most common type of panic bars. When someone pushes on the touch-sensitive bar, the door opens, making it easy to exit.
• Rim Panic Bars: Rim panic bars are surface-mounted and work well for single or double doors. They are easy to install and maintain, making them popular for various commercial applications.
• Concealed Vertical Rod Panic Bars: These panic bars have vertical rods that secure the door at the top and bottom. The rods are concealed within the door, providing a cleaner look while still offering secure functionality.
• Mortise Panic Bars: Mortise panic bars have a lock body inside the door and are typically used in high-security applications. They offer added protection, combining the benefits of a panic bar with the security of a mortise lock.
• Alarmed Panic Bars: These panic bars are equipped with alarms that sound when the door is opened, making them an excellent choice for doors that require monitoring for unauthorized exits.

The choice of panic bar depends on the type of door, the building's design, and the level of security needed. At Okey DoKey Locksmith, we can help you choose the right panic bar for your property and ensure proper installation for optimal performance.

Benefits of Using a Panic Bar in Your Business

Installing a panic bar on exit doors offers numerous benefits for your business, ensuring safety, convenience, and compliance with building codes. Here are some key benefits of using panic bars:

• Increased Safety: Panic bars provide a quick and efficient way for people to exit the building during emergencies. This is especially important during fires, earthquakes, or other situations that require immediate evacuation.
• Compliance with Fire Safety Codes: Many local fire safety codes and regulations require businesses to install panic bars on exit doors. Installing panic bars ensures that your business complies with these regulations, helping you avoid fines and penalties.
• Easy Access in High-Traffic Areas: Panic bars are ideal for doors that experience heavy traffic, allowing for easy entry and exit without compromising security. They help manage the flow of people in and out of your building, ensuring that exits are always accessible.
• Prevents Unauthorized Entry: While panic bars make it easy to exit a building, they are designed to prevent unauthorized access from the outside. This provides an added layer of security for your property.
• Durability: Panic bars are built to withstand frequent use, making them ideal for businesses that require high levels of security and durability.

Overall, panic bars improve the safety of your business while making it easier to manage the flow of people in and out of your property.

Panic Bars for Heavy Traffic Doors

In businesses with high foot traffic, ensuring that exits remain accessible is crucial for both safety and convenience. Panic bars are the ideal solution for heavy traffic doors because they allow people to exit quickly and easily without the need for keys or complex mechanisms.

In retail stores, schools, hospitals, and office buildings, where hundreds or even thousands of people may pass through each day, panic bars ensure that exits are always available, even in emergency situations. Installing panic bars on heavy traffic doors not only ensures safety but also reduces wear and tear on traditional locks and handles, extending the life of your doors.

At Okey DoKey Locksmith, we offer a variety of panic bars designed to withstand heavy traffic and provide reliable security. Our experienced locksmiths can help you select and install the right panic hardware for your business, ensuring that your doors remain secure and functional.

Why Use a Locksmith to Install Panic Hardware?

While it might be tempting to install a panic bar yourself, it's always best to rely on a professional locksmith for the job. Here’s why:

• Expert Installation: Locksmiths have the experience and training to install panic bars correctly, ensuring that they function properly in emergencies. Improper installation can lead to faulty operation, putting your building’s occupants at risk.
• Compliance with Regulations: Local building codes and fire safety regulations require specific standards for panic bars. A professional locksmith ensures that your panic hardware meets all necessary safety requirements and codes.
• Customization: A locksmith can help you choose the right panic bar for your doors, taking into consideration the type of door, traffic levels, and security needs. This ensures that your panic bars work efficiently and provide the appropriate level of security.
• Durability: Professional installation ensures that your panic bars are installed securely and are less likely to experience problems or malfunctions over time.
• Access Control Integration: If your panic bar needs to be integrated into an access control system, a locksmith can handle the installation and ensure that it works seamlessly with other security features.

At Okey DoKey Locksmith, we specialize in the installation of panic hardware and can ensure that your business is equipped with reliable and compliant panic bars. Trust the experts to get the job done right.

Panic Hardware and Exit Alarms

For businesses that need to monitor exits for unauthorized access, exit alarms can be integrated with panic hardware. Exit alarms sound an alert when the door is opened, making them ideal for locations that require additional security, such as retail stores, warehouses, and schools.

Panic hardware with exit alarms provides several benefits:

• Prevents Unauthorized Exits: Exit alarms deter unauthorized exits, such as shoplifting or unauthorized personnel leaving through restricted doors.
• Increases Security: Exit alarms can be integrated with your business's security system, ensuring that any unauthorized exits trigger a response from security personnel.
• Compliance with Building Codes: In some cases, exit alarms are required by building codes to ensure that emergency exits are not misused or obstructed.

Whether you need panic hardware for a door with an exit alarm or require repairs to your existing system, Okey DoKey Locksmith can provide expert service and installation to meet your needs.

Why Choose Okey DoKey Locksmith?

When it comes to panic bar installation and repair in Austin, Texas, Okey DoKey Locksmith is the trusted name. Here’s why:

• Experienced Technicians: Our locksmiths have years of experience installing and repairing panic bars and are up-to-date with the latest fire safety regulations.
• Customized Solutions: We work with you to determine the best panic hardware for your business, ensuring that your doors meet all safety and security requirements.
• Quick Response Time: Whether you need an emergency repair or a new installation, we offer fast, reliable service to get your doors working efficiently as soon as possible.
• Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive pricing for all panic bar services, making it easy for businesses to stay safe and compliant without breaking the bank.

Choose Okey DoKey Locksmith for expert panic hardware installation and repair services in Austin, Texas. We’re committed to keeping your business safe and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take to install a panic bar? Installation typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the door and hardware.
2. Do all commercial doors require panic bars? Most commercial buildings with public access require panic bars on exit doors to comply with fire safety codes.
3. Can panic bars be integrated with access control systems? Yes, panic bars can be integrated with access control systems for additional security and monitoring.
4. How often should panic bars be inspected? Panic bars should be inspected annually to ensure they are functioning properly and meet safety standards.
5. Can a panic bar be installed on a glass door? Yes, there are panic bars designed specifically for glass doors, providing both security and aesthetic appeal.
6. What is the difference between a panic bar and an exit device? Panic bars and exit devices are often used interchangeably, but panic bars are typically push bars that allow for easy exit during emergencies.
7. Are alarmed panic bars required by law? In some cases, exit alarms are required on certain doors for added security and compliance with local building codes.
8. Can I repair a panic bar myself? While minor adjustments can be made, it's best to hire a professional locksmith for repairs to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
9. How much does it cost to install a panic bar? Costs vary depending on the type of panic bar and the complexity of the installation, but typically range between $150 and $400.
10. Are panic bars mandatory in small businesses? Small businesses with public access are generally required to install panic bars on emergency exit doors to comply with fire safety regulations.

Cost of Panic Bar Services

Conclusion

Panic bars are an essential safety feature for any business, ensuring that exits are accessible during emergencies and complying with fire safety regulations. Whether you need to install a new panic bar or repair an existing one, Okey DoKey Locksmith offers expert service, fast response times, and affordable pricing in Austin, Texas. Contact us today to schedule your panic bar installation or repair and keep your business safe and secure.

References

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Security Industry Association
• International Code Council (ICC)