About this service

Emergency exit devices (panic bars or push bars) are required by code on most commercial exit doors. They need to push open reliably every time, which means they need to be properly installed, maintained, and replaced when worn. We install, repair, and replace Von Duprin, Corbin Russwin, and Falcon panic hardware on commercial exit doors. We can also integrate keyed exterior trim so the door functions as a normal entry from outside.

What you get

Meets life safety code requirements
Reliable push-to-exit function in an emergency
Optional keyed exterior entry
Works with electric strike or access control if needed
Brands used by commercial contractors and code officials

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Common Causes of Emergency Exit Devices

Required by occupancy code on a new build or renovation

Most commercial occupancies with a certain capacity are required by building code to have panic hardware on designated exit doors.

An inspection flagged missing or non-compliant hardware

Fire marshal or code inspections commonly identify exit doors that don't meet current push-to-exit requirements.

Worn mechanism from years of daily use

Exit devices see constant use in high-traffic commercial buildings, and internal components wear out over time.

A device that's sticking or not latching reliably

A panic bar that doesn't reliably push open or re-latch is both a life-safety issue and a common repair call.

Adding keyed outside trim to an existing exit-only door

Some businesses want an exit-only panic device converted so it also functions as a normal keyed entry from outside.

Damage from forced entry or heavy impact

Exit devices can be bent or damaged by forced entry attempts or accidental impacts from equipment or carts.

A change of occupancy classification during a remodel

Converting a space from one occupancy type to another can trigger new exit hardware requirements under the updated code classification.

Alarm-integrated exit hardware needing an upgrade

Some panic devices are wired to trigger a local alarm when used, and this integration sometimes needs updating alongside a hardware refresh.

A door being added or relocated during a floor plan change

New or relocated exit doors created during a renovation need panic hardware selected and installed to match the updated layout.

The Risks of DIY Emergency Exit Devices

Code compliance is easy to get wrong

Panic hardware has specific requirements tied to door width, occupancy type, and applicable fire code, which an untrained installation can miss.

Improper mounting can prevent reliable operation

A panic bar that isn't mounted and aligned precisely may fail to open under the push force it's required to handle in an emergency.

Voiding certification or listing

Panic hardware must be installed according to its listing to remain code-compliant, and improvised installation can void that.

Downtime and liability exposure

A non-functional exit device during an inspection or, worse, an actual emergency, creates liability exposure for the business.

Incorrect door width or hardware match

Panic devices are sized to specific door widths, and an incorrect match can leave the mechanism unreliable under real push force.

Skipped strike alignment check

A misaligned strike can cause the device to appear to work in testing but fail under different conditions like temperature or humidity changes.

Missing the dogging function requirement

Some exit devices need a dogging feature to hold the latch retracted during business hours, and installing the wrong model can leave the door unable to function as intended during open hours.

Alarm integration wired incorrectly

A panic device tied into a local alarm that's wired wrong can either fail to sound when needed or create constant false alarms.

Underestimating door weight for the device's rated capacity

Panic hardware is rated for specific door weights and widths, and an undersized device can wear out quickly or fail under real push force.

What Affects the Cost

Panic bar brand and model
Door width and required outside trim function
Whether it integrates with electric strike or access control
Number of exit doors needing hardware

Palmetto State Locksmith vs. DIY vs. Dealership

Comparison of Palmetto State Locksmith, DIY, and dealership/alternative options for Emergency Exit Devices
Palmetto State Locksmith	DIY	Dealership / Alternative
Installed and confirmed to meet applicable life safety code	In-house maintenance staff often aren't familiar with exit device code requirements	A regional commercial door and hardware contractor can also do this, typically at a higher project minimum
Integrates with existing electric strikes or access control	Integration compatibility is easy to miss without commercial hardware experience	Varies by provider
Repair-or-replace assessed on-site before work begins	No way to know in advance whether a part or a full replacement is needed	Varies by provider

How it works

1
Assess the door and code requirements
We look at the door width, frame condition, and applicable building code for your occupancy type.
2
Hardware selection
Panic bar brand and model selected based on door type and required outside trim function.
3
Installation
Proper mounting to door, strike aligned to frame, and operation tested to confirm it latches and releases correctly.
4
Code confirmation
We confirm the installation meets applicable life safety requirements before leaving.