Crash Bars

Crash bars, also known as panic bars or emergency exit devices, are essential components of any commercial building’s safety and security system. Crash bars provide fast, reliable egress in emergencies and help facilities comply with critical fire and life-safety codes. JMAC’s collection includes mechanical and electrified crash bars that ensure smooth operation, secure mounting, and lasting durability for daily use and emergency readiness. Compatible with a wide range of commercial doors, our exit devices deliver dependable performance where it matters most.

Understanding Commercial Door Safety Systems

What Are Crash Bars?

Crash bars (panic bars or exit devices) serve as the primary emergency exit mechanism in commercial buildings. These horizontal bars mount across doors and release the latch when pressed, allowing for quick evacuation during emergencies. Available in various configurations, crash bars provide:

  • Simple operation that requires minimal force to activate
  • Reliable exit functionality even during power outages
  • Compliance with building codes and safety regulations
  • Options for both fire-rated and panic-rated applications

In facilities requiring layered security, pair crash bars with cabinet locks for securing drawers, enclosures, and internal compartments.

Types of Exit Devices

Different environments and security needs require specific exit solutions:

  • Surface-Mounted Devices: Models like the SDC S6214FU48R install directly onto the door surface, making them suitable for retrofitting existing doors with minimal modification.
  • Rim-Mount Systems: Options such as the SDC S5101 series attach to the interior face of the door and connect to a strike on the frame, providing secure latching while maintaining easy emergency exit.
  • Fire-Rated Devices: Specialized models like the SDC S6203FU36B maintain building compartmentalization during fires while still allowing emergency egress.

Electrified crash bars with REX sensors integrate seamlessly with control panels and kits for real-time monitoring and remote access management.

Advanced Features

Modern crash bars offer enhanced functionality beyond basic emergency exit:

  • Request-to-Exit (REX) Sensors: Detect when someone is exiting and signal access control systems
  • Alarm Functionality: Alert security personnel when doors are opened
  • Electrified Locking (ELR): Allow for remote locking and unlocking integration

Crash bars equipped with electrified locking can restrict access to authorized users only when combined with validated credentials.

Brand Selection

Our collection includes trusted names in commercial door safety:

  • Detex: Offering advanced solutions like the 60 Series exit devices with comprehensive functionality
  • Security Door Controls (SDC): Providing a wide range of options from basic panic devices to sophisticated electrified systems

Whether outfitting a new commercial space or upgrading existing door hardware, choosing quality crash bars ensures safety compliance and reliable operation when it matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which crash bar model is best for high-traffic commercial entrances?

The SDC S6200 series handles frequent use exceptionally well, with sturdy construction and reliable mechanisms designed specifically for busy commercial doorways.

Are crash bars difficult to install on existing doors?

Most surface-mounted models like the SDC S6214 series can be installed on existing doors without extensive modification using standard tools and hardware.

Can crash bars integrate with building security systems?

Yes, models with REX sensors and ELR functionality connect directly to access control systems for comprehensive security management and monitoring.

What’s the difference between panic-rated and fire-rated crash bars?

Fire-rated devices maintain fire barriers when closed, while panic-rated models focus primarily on easy emergency egress without fire-containment requirements.

Do crash bars work during power outages?

All mechanical crash bars function without power, while electrified models typically default to safe exit mode during outages for uninterrupted emergency egress.

Live Chat