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ELECTRONIC EXIT DEVICES

Safe Emergency Egress Solutions in Austin.

ZML ACCESS CONTROL SERVICES: Licensed and Insured for Your Protection

PROFESSIONAL EXIT DEVICE INSTALLATION & SERVICE IN AUSTIN AND CENTRAL TEXAS

ZML ACCESS CONTROL provides expert installation, maintenance, and integration of exit devices for businesses across Austin and Central Texas. Our team specializes in implementing reliable emergency egress solutions that maintain building security while ensuring safe exit paths during emergencies.

What are Exit Devices?

Exit devices (also known as panic bars, crash bars, or push bars) are specialized door hardware designed to allow quick and easy exit during emergencies while maintaining security from the outside. These devices play a critical role in life safety and building code compliance while integrating with modern access control systems.

How Exit Devices Work

Exit devices operate using a straightforward mechanical or electromechanical mechanism:

When the horizontal bar or paddle is pressed from the inside, internal components retract the latch.

This allows the door to open immediately with minimal effort.

From the outside, the door remains secure against unauthorized entry.

When integrated with access control, authorized entry can be managed electronically.

During emergencies, exit is always possible regardless of electronic system status.

What are Exit Devices?

Exit devices (also known as panic bars, crash bars, or push bars) are specialized door hardware designed to allow quick and easy exit during emergencies while maintaining security from the outside. These devices play a critical role in life safety and building code compliance while integrating with modern access control systems.

How Exit Devices Work

Exit devices operate using a straightforward mechanical or electromechanical mechanism:

When the horizontal bar or paddle is pressed from the inside, internal components retract the latch.

This allows the door to open immediately with minimal effort.

From the outside, the door remains secure against unauthorized entry.

When integrated with access control, authorized entry can be managed electronically.

During emergencies, exit is always possible regardless of electronic system status.

Benefits of Professional Exit Device Installation

Life Safety Compliance

  • Code Compliance: Meet NFPA 101, IBC, and local building code requirements
  • ADA Conformity: Ensure accessibility standards are maintained
  • Reliable Operation: Guarantee function during emergency situations
  • Proper Mounting: Correct installation height and positioning
  • Appropriate Application: Right device for each door type and location

Security Integration

  • Controlled Access: Manage entry while maintaining free egress
  • Monitoring Capabilities: Track door position and usage
  • Alarm Integration: Connect with fire and security systems
  • Remote Control: Lock/unlock doors from central location
  • Scheduled Operation: Automate locking based on business hours


Types of Exit Devices We Install.

Standard Mechanical Exit Devices

Our mechanical push bar solutions provide reliable emergency egress:

1. Rim-type devices that mount on the door surface

2. Vertical rod devices for pairs of doors

3. Concealed vertical rod options for aesthetic applications

4. Surface vertical rod configurations for specific door types

5. Crossbar and touch-bar designs

6. Various finishes to match building aesthetics

Electrified Exit Devices

For facilities requiring integrated access control, we install electrified exit devices featuring:

1. Electric latch retraction for remote unlocking

2. Electric dogging to hold the latch retracted during business hours

3. Request-to-exit sensors or switches

4. Alarm capabilities for unauthorized use

5. Integration with card readers and keypads

6. Monitoring switches for door position and latch status

Delayed Egress Exit Devices

In specific authorized applications, we install code-compliant delayed egress systems:

1. 15-second delay before release (per building code requirements)

2. Local alarm activation when exit attempt begins

3. Immediate release upon fire alarm activation

4. Visual and audible countdown indicators

5. Signage explaining delayed operation

6. Override capabilities for authorized personnel

Professional Exit Device Installation Process

Our comprehensive installation approach ensures proper operation and code compliance.

01

Site Assessment:

We evaluate your doors, existing hardware and security needs.

02

Code Analysis:

We determine specific requirements based on occupancy and door location.

03

Hardware Selection:

We recommend appropriate devices for each application.

04

Professional Installation:

Our certified technicians handle all mounting and connections.

05

System Integration:

We connect electronic features to access control systems.

06

Testing & Certification:

We verify proper operation and code compliance.

07

User Training:

We provide instruction on system operation and maintenance.

Professional Exit Device Installation Process

Our comprehensive installation approach ensures proper operation and code compliance.

01

Site Assessment:

We evaluate your doors, existing hardware and security needs.

02

Code Analysis:

We determine specific requirements based on occupancy and door location.

03

Hardware Selection:

We recommend appropriate devices for each application.

04

Professional Installation:

Our certified technicians handle all mounting and connections.

05

System Integration:

We connect electronic features to access control systems.

06

Testing & Certification:

We verify proper operation and code compliance.

07

User Training:

We provide instruction on system operation and maintenance.

Exit Device Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Our service team provides comprehensive support to ensure reliable operation: regular inspection and maintenance, lubrication of moving components, adjustment of strike alignment, testing of electronic functions, battery replacement for battery-powered components and fast response to operational issues.

Common Exit Device Issues We Resolve:

Difficult operation or binding.

Latch misalignment with strike.

  • Loose mounting hardware.
  • Electrical failures in electrified units.
  • Improper dogging operation.
  • Wear on internal components.

Exit Device Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Our service team provides comprehensive support to ensure reliable operation: regular inspection and maintenance, lubrication of moving components, adjustment of strike alignment, testing of electronic functions, battery replacement for battery-powered components and fast response to operational issues.

Common Exit Device Issues We Resolve:

Difficult operation or binding.

Latch misalignment with strike.

  • Loose mounting hardware.
  • Electrical failures in electrified units.
  • Improper dogging operation.
  • Wear on internal components.

ENHANCE BUILDING SAFETY WITH PROFESSIONAL EXIT DEVICE SOLUTIONS

Exit devices are critical components that balance security requirements with life safety needs. Whether you're updating existing hardware or equipping a new facility, ZML ACCESS CONTROL delivers expert exit device solutions that ensure code compliance while integrating with your security systems.

Get your free exit device security consultation!

CALL 512-710-1188

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've got A's for your Q's

What's the difference between panic hardware and fire exit hardware?

Fire exit hardware is specifically listed for use on fire-rated doors and includes additional features like automatic latching. Panic hardware is used on non-fire-rated doors. Fire exit hardware always latches when the door closes, while standard panic hardware can often be dogged (held in an unlatched position).

Can exit devices be connected to access control systems?

Yes, many modern exit devices are available with electric latch retraction, electric dogging, and monitoring switches that integrate with electronic access control systems. This allows for controlled entry while maintaining free egress.

What is "dogging" on an exit device?

Dogging is a feature that holds the latch retracted, allowing the door to function as a push/pull door during business hours. This reduces wear on components and eliminates the noise of the latch operating. Dogging can be mechanical (using a hex key or cylinder) or electrical (controlled by access system).

What is a delayed egress exit device?

Delayed egress devices hold the door closed for 15 seconds (or 30 seconds with special approval) after someone attempts to exit, giving security personnel time to respond to unauthorized exit attempts. These devices include alarms and are strictly regulated by building codes, with immediate release required during fire alarm activation.

How often should exit devices be inspected?

Exit devices should be inspected at least annually, with more frequent checks in high-traffic areas. Regular inspection ensures reliable operation during emergencies and extends the life of the hardware.

Are exit devices required by building code?

Yes, most commercial buildings require exit devices on doors serving spaces with an occupant load of 50 or more people, or in high-hazard occupancies with any occupant load. Specific requirements vary based on building type, occupancy, and local codes.

ENHANCE BUILDING SAFETY WITH EXPERT EXIT DEVICE SOLUTIONS

Exit devices are critical components that balance security requirements with life safety needs. Whether you're updating existing hardware or equipping a new facility, ZML ACCESS CONTROL delivers expert exit device solutions that ensure code compliance while integrating with your security systems.

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