Exit Devices

Why install an exit device? Safety.


exit deviceDoor exit devices are known by many names, including crash, panic, and push bars. By whatever name, exit devices are safety devices - spring-loaded metal bars, horizontally fixed to the push side of a door, (the side you push to open). The first ones were put in place more than 125 years ago. They became more widespread after 1903 when more than 600 people died in a Chicago theatre fire.

Today, building codes around much of the world require them on all fire and emergency exits. They're designed to open a door quickly, using any part of the body - in the dark if necessary. They also automatically latch once they close, as fire codes require.

Unlike locksets, exit devices are mounted on one side of the door, making them one-way. To make your door two-way, you'll need to mount another BWI Commercial handle on the opposite side. We're happy to tell you more about how our Design Hardware exit devices will work on your door and interact with the handle you choose to put on the door's other side.

Do you need a 1000 or 2000 exit device? What fire rating does your exit device need to have? Do you need a rim exit device or one with a vertical rod? We'll help you answer any questions, and then supply you with the right exit devices for your building - ones that will help you protect occupants for years to come.

exit devices spacer exit devices

Click below the PDF template specification you need.


acrobat  1000R Series Grade 1 Heavy Duty Rim Exit Device

acrobat  1000V Series Grade 1 Heavy Duty Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device

acrobat  F1000V Series Grade 1 Heavy Duty Fire Rated Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device

acrobat  2000R Series Grade 1 Standard Duty Rim Exit Device

acrobat  2000V Series Grade 1 Standard Duty Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device

acrobat  F2000V Series Grade 1 Standard Duty Fire Rated Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device

For more exit device template specifications, go to

design hardware