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English Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-19 Origin: Site
Panic situations call for swift, reliable action. Whether you manage commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, or any public space, knowing how to safeguard occupants in an emergency is crucial for safety compliance and peace of mind. Choosing the right panic exit device is more than just meeting regulatory checklists; it can be the difference between safe evacuation and disaster.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about CE EN1125 panic exit devices and EN1634 fire-rated solutions. You’ll learn what these standards mean, how panic exit devices work, and how to select the right fire-rated products for your needs.
Panic exit devices are more than a metal bar on a door. They play a lifesaving role when the unexpected happens. A properly installed panic exit device enables fast, intuitive egress during emergencies like fire or crowd surges, reducing the risk of injury or panic.
Facilities managers, architects, and contractors need to understand safety standards to ensure their buildings uphold both legal requirements and occupant wellbeing.
A panic exit device, sometimes called a panic bar or crash bar, allows occupants to open a door by pushing against a horizontal bar, enabling easy and immediate exit. These devices are critical for spaces with high human traffic and are especially vital in situations where people might panic and struggle to unlock conventional door hardware.
Consider a packed auditorium during a fire drill. Traditional knobs or latches may create bottlenecks. Panic exit devices ensure everyone, regardless of age or ability, can exit quickly and safely.
EN1125 is a European standard that specifies requirements for panic exit devices. To earn the CE marking under EN1125, a panic exit device must pass strict safety, durability, and usability tests. This standard is designed primarily for buildings with public access, where users have little or no familiarity with the building’s exits.
Key test criteria include:
● Operation with minimal force
● Endurance over thousands of uses
● Functional performance under fire and stress conditions
CE-marked panic exit devices are recognized as compliant with essential health and safety requirements under EU building regulations. Using certified devices ensures you meet local codes and can offer legal protection in the event of emergencies.
Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
Minimum operating force | ≤ 80 N |
Durability | 200,000 cycle test |
Fire resistance (if applicable) | Tested per EN1634 |
Corrosion resistance | Salt spray test in harsh environments |
Safety marking | CE, with instructions and identification |
EN1634 is the European test standard for fire resistance in door and shutter assemblies. It measures the ability of doors, including those with panic exit devices, to withstand fire and restrict the spread of smoke and flames for a specified period (commonly 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes).
When selecting panic exit devices for fire doors, ensure that both the device and the door assembly are tested together under EN1634. This ensures that the panic device won’t compromise the door's fire resistance and that you maintain a continuous fire barrier.
Hospital corridors require fire-rated doors to compartmentalize smoke and flames. The panic exit device must allow rapid egress while preserving the fire barrier integrity.
When evaluating panic exit devices for your facility, focus on these key features:
● Certified to EN1125 and EN1634
Only select products with documented test reports and a visible CE mark.
● Correct Application
Devices should be matched to door width, weight, and intended use. Double doors, glass doors, and timber doors may require different solutions.
● Durable Construction
Look for corrosion-resistant materials, especially for external doors exposed to the elements.
● Easy Maintenance
Regular testing and minimal part replacement should be possible without specialist tools.
● Luminous strips for visibility in smoke or darkness
● Alarm integration to deter unauthorized exit
● Anti-bacterial coatings for healthcare settings
A panic exit device that works for one fire-rated door may not suit another. Always check compatibility and, where possible, use factory-tested combinations.
Even the best panic exit device can fail if installed incorrectly. Hire certified professionals and always follow manufacturer guidance.
Routine checks and testing prevent unexpected faults. Train staff in simple checks, and schedule annual inspections to meet regulatory standards.
Set a schedule for reviewing every panic exit device in your facility. Audit for compliance, wear, and clear signage.
Keep up-to-date records of purchases, test certificates, maintenance activities, and regulatory checks. This streamlines inspections and boosts your legal protection.
Panic exit device standards and local regulations evolve. Sign up for industry updates, and work with suppliers who prioritize compliance and continuous product innovation.
If your doors haven’t been inspected or upgraded in more than five years, now is the time. Innovations in panic exit devices mean improved safety, smoother operation, and enhanced design that blends with modern architecture.
Choosing the right panic exit device and ensuring it meets both EN1125 and EN1634 standards is essential for building safety. Not only does this protect lives, but it also protects your organization from legal and financial risk.
By investing in certified panic exit devices, conducting regular audits, and staying informed on safety trends, you’ll safeguard your space for years to come.
● Review your building’s emergency exit routes and signage
● Consult safety professionals for an audit of your current systems
● Download comprehensive EN1125 and EN1634 guidelines for reference
Taking these steps means your building will be ready for whatever challenges come its way.
