Crash bar

Crash bar (also known as a panic exit device, panic bar, or push bar) is a type of door hardware used to allow occupants to exit a building quickly during emergencies. The device consists of a spring-loaded metal bar fixed horizontally to the inside of an outward-opening door. When the bar is pushed, it activates a mechanism that unlatches the door, allowing it to be opened. Crash bars are commonly found on fire doors and emergency exits in a wide range of buildings, including commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals.

History

The invention of the crash bar is attributed to Carl Prinzler and Vonnegut Hardware Company in collaboration with engineer Henry H. DuPont in the early 20th century. The motivation for this invention was the tragic Iroquois Theatre Fire in 1903, which resulted in the deaths of over 600 people, largely due to inadequate emergency exits. This event highlighted the need for a reliable method of ensuring doors could be easily and quickly opened from the inside during emergencies.

Design and Operation

A typical crash bar consists of a horizontal bar mounted on the interior side of a door at waist height. Pressing the bar activates a mechanism, usually a spring-loaded latch, allowing the door to swing open. This design ensures that in the event of panic, pressure against the bar will open the door, preventing crowding and trampling at exits.

Modern crash bars may include additional features such as alarm systems to prevent unauthorized use, delayed egress functions for security areas, and integration with building security systems and fire alarm systems.

Regulations and Standards

The installation of crash bars is governed by various building codes and safety standards around the world. In many jurisdictions, these devices are mandatory on certain types of doors in public buildings, particularly those designated as fire exits. Standards such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide guidelines on the installation, operation, and maintenance of crash bars.

Types of Crash Bars

Crash bars come in several designs, including:

• Single-point crash bars, which release a single latch mechanism.
• Multi-point crash bars, which activate multiple latches or bolts for added security.
• Touchpad devices, which use a flat push pad instead of a traditional bar.

Applications

Crash bars are essential components of emergency egress systems in buildings. They are installed on doors that are designated as emergency exits in various types of buildings, including commercial properties, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and industrial sites. The primary goal is to ensure that occupants can exit the building quickly and safely in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or earthquake.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance of crash bars is crucial to ensure they function correctly in an emergency. Maintenance tasks include checking the operation of the bar, ensuring the door opens smoothly, and verifying that the alarm (if present) is operational. Building owners and managers are responsible for ensuring that these devices are regularly inspected and maintained in accordance with local regulations and manufacturer recommendations.

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