What’s the Difference Between Panic Bars and Crash Bars?
by Curt Morgan -
If you're planning to upgrade your building's emergency exits, you've probably come across both “panic bars” and “crash bars.” These terms are often used interchangeably, but they can have different applications depending on safety codes, door usage, and building types. For business owners and property managers in La Porte, Texas, choosing the right exit hardware is crucial for both compliance and safety.
At Panic Bar King La Porte, we specialize in supplying and installing all types of commercial door hardware, including fire-rated panic bars and heavy-duty crash bars. This guide will walk you through what each device does, how they differ, and which option may be best for your business or facility. If you’re not sure what meets code or provides the best security, read on—and give us a call when you’re ready to install.
Contents
- Understanding Emergency Exit Hardware
- What Is a Panic Bar?
- What Is a Crash Bar?
- Panic Bar vs. Crash Bar: Key Differences
- Code Compliance: When Each Is Required
- Safety and Security Considerations
- Installation and Maintenance Tips
- Which One Should You Choose?
- Common Myths About Panic and Crash Bars
- Need Help Deciding? Contact Our Experts
Understanding Emergency Exit Hardware
Emergency exit hardware is designed to allow building occupants to quickly exit in case of fire, power failure, or other emergencies. It’s required by code in most commercial, educational, and public buildings. Panic bars and crash bars are horizontal devices installed on the interior side of an exit door that release the latch mechanism when pushed.
Both options promote safe egress and prevent crowd buildup at exits. Some systems include alarms, delayed egress features, or fire-rated latching mechanisms. To explore more exit safety options, check out our post on why every business needs compliant emergency hardware.
What Is a Panic Bar?
A panic bar—also known as an exit device—is a spring-loaded metal bar that spans the width of the door. When pressure is applied, it retracts the latch mechanism, allowing the door to open instantly. Panic bars are specifically designed to be operable by anyone, including the elderly and disabled, with minimal force.
They're commonly required in areas where 50 or more people may gather, such as schools, theaters, and large retail stores. For more on installation safety, refer to our guide on selecting fire-rated panic hardware.
What Is a Crash Bar?
“Crash bar” is a more informal term and is often used to describe the same hardware as a panic bar. However, in some contexts, crash bars may refer to non-code-compliant or non-fire-rated push bars used in smaller settings or interior doors that don’t require full emergency features.
They’re usually cheaper, simpler in function, and may lack certifications. Some crash bars may have additional features like dogging for convenience in high-traffic environments. Learn more about how dogging affects latching in our post on adjusting panic bars that don’t latch.
Panic Bar vs. Crash Bar: Key Differences
While both devices function similarly, here’s how they typically differ:
| Feature | Panic Bar | Crash Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Code Compliance | Meets UL & ANSI safety standards | May lack certification |
| Fire Rating | Often fire-rated | Rarely fire-rated |
| Usage | Commercial, high-occupancy buildings | Light-duty or residential settings |
| Dogging Feature | Not allowed on fire-rated bars | Common for ease of access |
| Cost | Higher due to compliance | Lower for basic models |
While people often refer to both as “crash bars,” true panic bars are the only devices that meet strict life safety codes.
Code Compliance: When Each Is Required
Panic hardware is required by the International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA 101 in buildings with specific occupancy loads. If your door is part of a fire-rated assembly, you must use a certified panic bar that self-latches.
Crash bars are only acceptable in low-occupancy or interior rooms where no code requirement exists. For doors with alarms, check our post on troubleshooting exit door alarm systems.
Safety and Security Considerations
Panic bars are built to allow fast, safe evacuation while still maintaining building security. Many models can be paired with alarms or electronic access control. Crash bars might lack security features and may be vulnerable to tampering.
In high-traffic environments, durability and consistent performance are crucial. When in doubt, opt for hardware that is UL305 listed and Grade 1 ANSI certified.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Always follow the manufacturer's installation guide. Use reinforced mounting hardware, especially on hollow metal doors. Test the bar function regularly and tighten loose screws or adjust misaligned latches as needed.
Incorrect installation or wear can cause latching failure. To avoid this, we recommend scheduling a professional inspection. Want tips? See our guide on how to choose the right automatic closer to pair with your exit device.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you're outfitting a commercial, school, or industrial property in La Porte, panic bars are almost always the right choice. They're safer, meet building codes, and offer fire and ADA compliance. Crash bars can work for utility closets or private rooms where emergency egress isn’t a concern.
Need help making the call? We’re happy to do a site inspection and recommend the correct hardware for your door and occupancy type.
Common Myths About Panic and Crash Bars
Myth: Panic bars and crash bars are completely different devices.
Truth: They often refer to the same hardware, but not all “crash bars” meet panic device standards.
Myth: You only need a panic bar if your building has over 100 people.
Truth: Many codes require them for 50+ occupancy or specific use types like assembly or education.
Myth: You can save money by installing a crash bar instead of a panic bar.
Truth: Doing so on a required door can result in code violations and safety hazards.
Need Help Deciding? Contact Our Experts
Choosing between panic bars and crash bars doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team at Panic Bar King La Porte knows the local code, understands your layout, and offers same-day service. We’ll walk you through code requirements, model options, and installation support.
Whether you need a fire-rated device for a warehouse or basic hardware for an office utility door, we’ve got you covered. Call today or visit our location for personalized help and top-quality exit devices.