What a Panic Bar Is and What Florida Fire Code Requires
A panic bar, also known as an exit device, is essential for safety in any business. It's the horizontal push bar that allows instant egress with a single motion, without needing a key.
The Florida Building Code and NFPA 101 Life Safety Code mandate these for doors serving specific occupancies, ensuring free exit during emergencies.
Orlando businesses must ensure these doors open freely from inside, even if locked from outside. Violations occur when chains or deadbolts are added, leading to fire marshal citations.
For fire-rated doors, a fire-exit device is required, avoiding mechanical dogging that could compromise safety.
Different settings need different configurations: rim, surface vertical rod, concealed vertical rod, or mortise types, depending on door and frame specifics.
Whether it's an I-Drive glass storefront or a Restaurant Row kitchen exit, we spec, install, and certify each device to meet code requirements.



