When seconds matter in an emergency, anything that delays an escape can put lives at risk. That’s why certain fire doors—especially those on exit routes from public or commercial buildings—are fitted with a panic bar. But what exactly is a panic bar, and when is one required?
Let’s take a closer look at this essential safety feature and how it fits into UK fire safety regulations.
A Simple Push to Open in an Emergency
A panic bar, sometimes called a crash bar or push bar, is a horizontal metal bar fitted to the inside of a door. When someone pushes against it, the door unlatches and opens immediately—no keys, codes, or twisting handles required.
It’s specifically designed for:
- Speed – easy to use in a hurry, even by someone unfamiliar with the building
- Simplicity – no complex mechanism to figure out
- Reliability – works even in dark or smoky conditions
- Accessibility – suitable for people with limited dexterity or mobility
This type of device allows large numbers of people to exit quickly and safely in the event of a fire or other emergency.
Where Are Panic Bars Required?
Panic bars are usually installed on final exit doors—the last doors leading directly to a place of safety outside the building.
In the UK, they are strongly recommended or required in:
- Shops, restaurants, pubs and leisure facilities
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Places of assembly like theatres, community halls, and churches
- Any premises where the public has access or large numbers of people may gather
Even in smaller businesses, if your fire risk assessment identifies the need for fast, unimpeded evacuation, panic bars may be the most appropriate solution.
The Standards Behind Panic Bars
Panic bars must meet strict standards to ensure they function correctly when needed:
- BS EN 1125 covers panic exit devices with a horizontal bar (typically for use in buildings accessible to the general public).
- BS EN 179 applies to emergency exit devices operated by a lever handle or push pad (typically for trained staff in workplaces not open to the public).
These standards ensure:
- The bar is durable and tested under load
- The door opens with minimal force (usually under 80N)
- The bar spans enough of the door width to be easily located and used in a rush
If you’re upgrading fire exits or unsure which device you need, always refer to these standards or speak to a fire safety professional.
Panic Bars and Fire Doors – What’s the Connection?
Not all fire doors have panic bars, but many final exit fire doors do—especially in commercial and public buildings. A panic bar does not compromise the fire rating of a door, as long as it’s:
- Certified for use on fire doors
- Installed correctly according to manufacturer instructions
- Maintained and checked regularly
It’s important to ensure that both the fire-resisting integrity and the escape functionality of the door are preserved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
We often see:
- Panic bars fitted to doors that are then locked or bolted from the outside—rendering them useless in an emergency
- Bars obstructed by furniture or deliveries
- Lack of signage showing “Push bar to open”
- No staff training on how and when to use them
All final exit routes must remain clear, unlocked (during operational hours), and ready for immediate use.
Fire Exit Signage and Lighting
Any door fitted with a panic bar should also have:
- A fire exit sign above the door, following BS 5499 or ISO 7010 standards
- A sign on the door itself, usually saying: “Push bar to open”
- Emergency lighting if it’s part of an escape route, ensuring visibility even in a power cut
These elements are all part of a legally compliant escape strategy under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
How ESI Can Help
At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we help businesses, landlords and building managers across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and surrounding areas understand their obligations and maintain compliant fire escape routes.
Our services include:
- Fire door inspections
- Exit hardware checks
- Fire risk assessments
- Advice on suitable panic bar and emergency exit solutions
If you’re unsure whether your fire doors and exits meet the current standards—or if panic bars are required for your building—get in touch with ESI today.
We’ll help you get the right systems in place so your building is both safe and legally compliant.
