Why Every Business Should Have Emergency Exit Hardware?

09-07-2021 by Freddy Jones -

If you're running a business in Hutto, emergency preparedness isn't just good practice—it's the law. Whether you're managing a retail shop, warehouse, restaurant, or office, having the right emergency exit hardware can make all the difference in a crisis. Exit devices like panic bars, door closers, and exit alarms are not only required by building code but are essential for protecting customers, staff, and your liability.

At Panic Bar King Hutto, we install and service a wide range of commercial-grade exit hardware tailored to your building's needs. In this guide, we’ll break down why every business should have emergency exit hardware installed, what options exist, and how to ensure you're meeting local and national fire codes.

Legal Requirements and Fire Code Compliance

Emergency exit hardware is mandated by the International Building Code (IBC), NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, and local regulations in Hutto. If your commercial space is designed for public access or accommodates more than 50 people, panic hardware is required on all designated exit doors.

Failure to comply may result in fines, failed inspections, or even business closure. For areas like stairwells and corridors, you’ll also need fire-rated panic hardware that maintains the integrity of your fire door system.

Types of Emergency Exit Devices

Exit hardware comes in various forms depending on door style, building use, and compliance requirements. The most common include:

• Panic Bars: Horizontal push bars that allow single-motion egress; required on many commercial doors.
• Crash Bars: Often used interchangeably with panic bars, but may lack proper certification. Learn the difference in What’s the Difference Between Panic Bars and Crash Bars?.
• Exit Alarms: Devices that alert staff or security when an emergency door is opened.
• Door Closers: Automatically close the door after use, critical for fire-rated systems. See How to Find the Right Automatic Door Closer.
• Delayed Egress Systems: Temporarily delay exit to prevent theft or unauthorized exits while still allowing safe egress in emergencies.

Benefits of Installing Exit Hardware for Your Business

Besides satisfying code requirements, exit hardware protects employees and customers by enabling fast evacuation. Panic bars can be operated even when hands are full or visibility is low. Exit alarms help detect unauthorized access, while closers ensure fire doors stay shut to prevent smoke spread.

Having the right setup also builds customer confidence, streamlines emergency response procedures, and lowers insurance premiums. For businesses in Hutto that undergo frequent inspections, properly installed hardware also helps pass with no delays.

Real Risks of Not Having Proper Exit Hardware

Neglecting exit hardware can result in tragic consequences. In an emergency, blocked or malfunctioning exits can lead to injuries, legal claims, and even loss of life. Without panic hardware, doors may become hard to open during panic conditions, especially in crowded areas.

Missing or faulty equipment can also lead to code violations, increased liability exposure, and damage to your company’s reputation. It's simply not worth the risk.

How Emergency Exit Hardware Reduces Liability

Installing certified exit devices limits your legal exposure in emergencies. If someone is injured during evacuation due to faulty or non-code-compliant doors, your business could face lawsuits and costly settlements.

With proper panic bars and fire-rated hardware in place, you show due diligence and code adherence, which reduces potential damages. Learn more about alarmed hardware in Troubleshooting Exit Door Alarms.

Choosing the Right Hardware for Your Building

Hardware selection depends on your door type (metal, wood, glass), traffic level, and whether fire-rated or ADA compliance is required. Narrow stile doors (like those on aluminum storefronts) may require specific models like Adams Rite or Detex narrow stile exit devices.

Always check if the hardware is UL-listed and ADA compliant. If you’re not sure what to get, check our guide on Where to Buy Commercial Door Hardware in Hutto TX.

Installation Tips and Maintenance Best Practices

Exit devices must be installed at the correct height (usually 34"–48" from the floor) and should latch securely without binding. Improper alignment can lead to devices that don’t latch or doors that won’t close fully. For adjustments, see How to Adjust a Panic Bar That Doesn't Latch.

Routine maintenance includes checking for loose screws, testing latch function, and ensuring the door closer has proper tension. Alarms and electronic components should also be tested monthly to verify function.

Common Misconceptions About Exit Hardware

• “All push bars are panic bars.” Not true—only UL-listed devices that meet code count as panic bars.
• “Panic hardware is only needed in large buildings.” Any space with 50+ occupants may require it, even small storefronts.
• “Installing them is too expensive.” Fines, insurance claims, and legal costs for non-compliance are far more expensive.
• “It’s fine to use regular locks on emergency exits.” Not if the space is public or high-occupancy—single-motion egress is legally required.

Partnering with a Professional Locksmith for Installation

Professional installation ensures your emergency exit hardware meets local fire and building codes. At Panic Bar King Hutto, we handle everything from assessment and product sourcing to installation and testing. We work with major brands like Von Duprin, Schlage, and Detex, and our mobile service is available same day for most jobs.

We also install closers, adjust latch mechanisms, and upgrade doors to meet new code changes. Our work is backed by a 6-month warranty on labor and hardware. Need help today? Call (512)523-4550 or email info@SR_DOMAINNAME.com for expert service.

Conclusion

Investing in emergency exit hardware is not just about following the law—it’s about protecting your people, your building, and your business. With the right panic bars, alarms, and closers, you ensure safe, fast exits and meet all local code requirements in Hutto.

We serve Hutto and nearby cities including Round Rock, Taylor, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Elgin, and Manor. Common zip codes include 78634, 78664, 78660, 78626, and 78621.

References

• LockNet: Emergency Exit Hardware and Fire Code Guide
• Buildings.com: Exit Hardware Compliance
• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code

Hutto Service Areas

Hutto TX Bee Cave TX Manor TX Kyle TX Jollyville TX Floresville TX Pflugerville TX Bastrop TX Lakeway TX San Marcos TX Elgin TX

Zip codes:

78641 78633 78736 78602 78729 78660 78653 78626 78735 78734 78664