You’re installing a new door at a school, church, or office, and you pause to ask, “Do I need panic hardware?”
That’s a smart and responsible question. When you're making decisions that affect the safety of others, especially in places where people gather, it’s natural to feel a bit unsure. Panic hardware isn’t just about meeting code, it’s about protecting lives when every second matters.
Some doors absolutely require it. Others don’t. The rules can feel confusing, depending on the type of building, how many people use it, and where the door leads.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what panic hardware is, when it’s required, and when it’s not. We’ll also clear up common myths and help you feel confident about what your door needs—so you can make the right choice with peace of mind.
Panic hardware is a type of door device. You push it to open the door fast.
You’ve seen it before. Think of the metal bar across a movie theater exit. That’s panic hardware.
It’s made for emergencies. Fires, lockdowns, or evacuations. People need to get out quickly, without thinking.
The bar works with a simple push. No twisting, turning, or pulling. That’s why it’s used in schools, churches, and public buildings.
It helps prevent crowding and injuries. In a rush, people panic. This hardware keeps exits clear and easy to use.
Building codes often require it. Not just for safety, but to meet legal rules.
If a door leads to an exit in a busy place, panic hardware may be required. We’ll cover those rules next.
Panic hardware is required by law in many buildings. The rules come from two main codes:
These codes help keep people safe during emergencies. They say when panic hardware must be used on doors that lock or latch.
Under the IBC, panic hardware is required on doors that:
For example, a door in a school hallway with 50+ students must have panic hardware. So must a door in a factory with hazardous materials, even if only a few people work there.
NFPA 101 has slightly different rules. It requires panic hardware on doors that:
NFPA also says doors without locks or latches (like push/pull doors) don’t need panic hardware.
Some rooms need panic hardware even if they don’t fit the above types.
Always check with your local building department. Some cities or states use different versions of these codes.
Not every door needs panic hardware. In fact, many don’t.
Residential homes don’t require it. If you’re installing a door in a house or apartment, you’re in the clear.
Small offices with low foot traffic often don’t need it either. If the space holds fewer than 50 people, it’s usually exempt.
Mechanical areas and storage rooms are also exempt, unless they have equipment that requires exit devices, such as 800 amperages or more.
Doors that don’t lead to an exit path usually don’t need panic hardware. Think closets, private offices, or utility rooms.
But just because it’s not required doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea. Panic hardware adds safety and ease of use. It can also help meet ADA standards.
If you’re unsure whether your door is considered “commercial” or “residential,” check out our blog on the difference between commercial and residential door hardware. It breaks down the key differences.
Always check local codes before making a final call.
Some people get panic hardware wrong. Here are three common myths:
Myth 1: All commercial doors need panic bars.
Not true. Only doors in certain buildings with high occupancy or exit routes require them. Small offices and storage rooms often don’t.
Myth 2: Panic hardware is only for fire emergencies.
Wrong again. It’s for any emergency; fire, lockdown, or evacuation. It helps people exit fast and safely.
Myth 3: Panic hardware is expensive and hard to install.
It’s not. Many models are affordable and easy to fit. Some even work with access control systems.
Knowing the facts helps you make smart choices. Panic hardware isn’t just about rules, it’s about safety.
A facility manager installed standard lever hardware on a school’s exit door. It looked fine. It worked fine. But it didn’t meet code.
During inspection, the door failed. It didn’t have panic hardware. The school had over 50 people and the door was part of an exit route.
The fix wasn’t cheap. They had to remove the old hardware, buy panic bars, and pay for new installation. The delay pushed back opening day. The school also faced fines.
This mistake could have been avoided by checking code rules first. Panic hardware isn’t just a safety feature. It’s a legal requirement in many buildings.
Always know your building type, occupancy load, and exit routes before choosing door hardware.
Even if panic hardware isn’t required by code, it still offers strong benefits:
Even if your door doesn’t need it today, panic hardware is a smart upgrade for safety and peace of mind.
Not sure if your door needs panic hardware? Use this quick checklist:
If you answered “yes” to any of these, your door might need panic hardware. But don’t guess.
Talk to a local inspector or hardware expert. They know your area’s building codes and can confirm what’s required.
Not all panic hardware is the same. Picking the right type depends on your door and building needs.
Here are the main types:
When choosing panic hardware, consider:
PDQ offers a full line of panic hardware that meets code and fits a range of needs. Our products are built for safety, durability, and ease of use.
Can I install panic hardware myself?
Yes, you can. But for code compliance, professional installation is recommended.
Is panic hardware required on double doors?
Often yes. If the doors serve an exit route, panic hardware is usually required on both leaves.
Does panic hardware work with access control systems?
Yes. Many models are designed to work with electronic systems. For example, PDQ’s Spirit Series 6EWS integrates panic hardware with electronic trim for secure access.
Panic hardware saves lives. It helps people exit fast when every second counts.
Knowing when it’s required keeps you compliant. Installing it when it’s not required adds safety and peace of mind.
If you’re unsure, ask a local inspector or hardware expert. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Need help choosing the right panic hardware?
Explore PDQ’s panic hardware solutions or contact us for expert advice.