Why Fire-Rated Doors Need Certified Panic Exit Devices in Commercial Buildings?

When it comes to building safety, every component matters. Fire-rated doors serve as critical barriers that contain flames and smoke, but they are only as effective as the hardware that secures them. If you manage a commercial building, school, hospital, or any facility where public safety is paramount, understanding fire-rated panic exit devices is not just important, it is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, certifying, and installing the right exit devices for your fire doors.

Understanding Panic Exit Devices for Fire-Rated Doors

1. What Are Panic Exit Devices?

A panic exit device, also known as panic hardware or crash bar, is a mechanical door mechanism designed to allow quick and easy egress in an emergency. These devices operate through a simple push-bar mechanism that anyone can activate, even in panic situations when fine motor skills may be compromised. The beauty of panic exit devices lies in their intuitive design. When someone pushes against the horizontal bar, the locking mechanism disengages instantly, allowing the door to swing open freely.

These devices are commonly found on emergency exit doors in commercial buildings, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and anywhere large numbers of people congregate. The primary function is to prevent crowd crushing and ensure smooth evacuation during fires, earthquakes, or other emergencies. Unlike standard door hardware that requires turning a knob or handle, panic hardware responds to simple body pressure, making it accessible to everyone regardless of age or physical ability.

2. Why Fire-Rated Doors Require Fire-Rated Exit Devices?

A fireproof door only works if it stays securely latched when exposed to heat and flame. A regular panic device may fail under intense heat, allowing fire to spread and reducing protection for building occupants and property. That is why commercial fire-rated doors must use exit devices designed and tested specifically for fire protection.

In addition, many building codes worldwide require that fire-rated openings use matching certified exit devices to maintain compliance. This is especially relevant in hospitals, schools, public offices and high-traffic commercial buildings. If your project includes interior fire doors or steel fire doors, certified panic exit hardware is a legal and life safety must-have.

Key Certifications for Fire-Rated Panic Exit Devices

Not all exit devices are created equal. Certifications provide assurance that panic hardware has been tested according to rigorous standards and will perform as expected during emergencies. When selecting panic exit devices for fire doors, look for these critical certifications.

1. UL10C Certification

UL10C certification verifies that exit devices can withstand fire exposure while maintaining safe egress. UL10C is required for many commercial fire-rated doors in North America. If a facility uses fireproof interior doors, UL-certified panic hardware ensures safe performance under extreme fire conditions.

2. EN1125 Standards

EN1125 applies to panic hardware used in Europe and other regions. It ensures doors open easily even when crowded, which is critical in public areas such as transport terminals, hotels and educational facilities. EN1125 exit devices are commonly seen on interior fire doors and external fire doors.

3. ANSI and BHMA A156.3 Compliance

ANSI and BHMA standards classify exit devices by durability, security and fire performance. Grade 1 is the highest level and preferred for demanding locations such as commercial fire doors and emergency exit door systems in industrial and public buildings.

3. How to Select the Right Panic Exit Devices for Fire Doors?

At Camax Hardware, we understand that fire safety is non-negotiable. That is why we manufacture a comprehensive range of panic exit devices certified to ANSI, BHMA, CE, and UL standards with appropriate fire ratings. Our products are designed for real-world applications, combining robust construction with intuitive operation. Whether you are outfitting internal fire doors in an office complex or external fire doors in an industrial facility, we have solutions that meet your specific requirements.

1. Rim Exit Devices

Rim exit devices are installed on the surface of the door and are ideal for single leaf fire resistant door systems. They are simple, reliable and widely used on commercial fire-rated doors, shops, offices and warehouses. Camax rim exit devices provide secure latching and smooth push operation for fast emergency egress.

2. Vertical Rod Exit Devices

Vertical rod exit devices secure both the top and bottom of the door, offering strong locking for double leaf assemblies. They are commonly used in schools, malls and institutional buildings. Camax offers both surface mounted and concealed vertical rod exit device models that maintain a clean look while meeting fire safety codes.

3. Mortise Exit Devices

Mortise exit devices integrate the locking mechanism inside the door, offering superior security and premium aesthetics. This type is ideal for luxury commercial spaces and high security zones. Camax mortise panic exit devices ensure fire safety, smooth operation and durable strength for interior fire doors and steel fire doors.

Whether your project uses wooden fire door systems, fire-rated interior door solutions or commercial fire-rated doors, Camax can provide professional advice based on building codes and practical requirements.

Contact Camax Hardware to Manufacture Panic Exit Devices for Fire-Rated Doors

Life safety is never optional. Reliable panic exit devices on fire doors provide essential protection in emergencies and help commercial buildings meet strict safety standards. Now that you understand how panic hardware protects fireproof door assemblies and how certifications like UL10C and EN1125 work, you can confidently select the right exit devices for your project.

Camax Hardware supports architects, contractors and distributors with certified solutions for internal fire doors, exterior fire doors, fire-rated wood doors and commercial fire-rated doors. Contact Camax Hardware today to select and manufacture the certified panic exit devices for your commercial doors.