As a business owner in Albuquerque, you have a lot on your plate—from managing daily operations to ensuring the comfort of your customers. However, one of the most critical aspects of running a brick-and-mortar establishment is often overlooked until an inspection or an emergency occurs: the exit device.
Commonly known as panic bars or crash bars, these devices are more than just a convenience; they are a vital safety requirement and a key component of your building’s security infrastructure.
What is an Exit Device?
An exit device is a hardware mechanism installed on a door that allows occupants to leave a building quickly and easily during an emergency. By simply pushing the bar, the door unlatches instantly, even if it is locked from the outside.
Why Your Albuquerque Business Needs Professional Installation
1. Life Safety and Building Code Compliance
The city of Albuquerque, like most municipalities, follows strict NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. If your building has a certain occupancy level, panic bars are legally required.
- The Risk: Incorrect installation can lead to failed fire inspections, heavy fines, or, in the worst-case scenario, blocked exits during an emergency.
- The Solution: A professional locksmith ensures that the hardware meets local fire codes and is installed at the correct height and tension.
2. Enhanced Security Without Compromising Safety
It sounds like a contradiction: how can a door be easy to open from the inside but secure from the outside? Modern exit devices are engineered to be incredibly tough against forced entry. High-quality rim or vertical rod devices prevent intruders from “shimming” the lock, keeping your inventory and assets safe during non-business hours.
3. Durability for High-Traffic Areas
Whether you run a retail shop in Nob Hill or a warehouse near the Sunport, your doors take a beating. Cheap, off-the-shelf hardware often fails after a few months of heavy use. Professional-grade exit devices (like Von Duprin or Sargent) are tested for millions of cycles, ensuring they won’t jam when your customers need them most.
Common Types of Exit Devices
When choosing the right hardware for your business, consider these options:
- Rim Exit Devices: The most common type, installed on the surface of the door. Simple, reliable, and easy to maintain.
- Surface Vertical Rods: Ideal for double doors where both leaves need to be active.
- Mortise Exit Devices: These are recessed into the door itself, offering a sleek look and maximum security.
Maintenance: Don’t “Set It and Forget It”
The high desert climate in New Mexico—with its extreme heat and occasional dust storms—can affect the lubrication and alignment of your door hardware. We recommend a professional inspection at least once a year to check for:
- Loose screws or mounting brackets.
- Proper latch retraction.
- Alignment issues caused by building settling.
Conclusion
Investing in a reliable exit device is an investment in your business’s future. It protects your employees, satisfies your insurance requirements, and gives you peace of mind knowing that your facility is both secure and safe.