Panic Exit Device Requirements
The maximum unlatching force shall not exceed 15 pounds.
Panic exit device requirements. The actuating portion of the exit device needs to be at least half the width of the actual door. The actuating portion of the panic device must be at least half the width of the door. A 3 2 door requires the touchpad or crossbar to be at least 19 long. The maximum unlatching force shall not exceed 15 pounds.
You should never add a chain lock padlock an extra deadbolt or any electric latches or components that would delay the opening of an egress panic hardware equipped door. The bar unlatches the door s latching mechanism on both ends allowing the door to swing freely in the direction of egress. Panic hardware is an exit device that has been tested to ul 305 requirements and allows simple egress by use of a crash bar push bar etc. The actuating portion of the panic device must measure at least half the width of the door example.
Panic hardware used on balanced doors must be touchpad type and the touchpad must not extend more than half the width of the door measured from the latch side. In addition to assembly educational and high hazard occupancies the 2014 edition of the national electrical code nfpa 70 requires panic hardware or fire exit hardware on doors within 25 feet of. Where panic hardware is required the actuating portion of the device touchpad or crossbar must be at least half the width of the door leaf. It should not require more than 15 pounds of force to unlatch it.