When it comes to commercial property safety, exit devices like push bars (also known as panic bars or crash bars) play a crucial role in emergency egress. These horizontal bars allow quick exits during emergencies while maintaining security when the building is unoccupied. However, not all push bars are created equal. Understanding the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 classifications can help property owners make informed decisions about their safety investments.
Understanding Hardware Grades
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) have established a grading system that categorizes door hardware based on durability, security, and performance. For push bars, this grading system helps buyers understand what they’re getting:
- Grade 1: The highest commercial rating, designed for high-traffic applications
- Grade 2: Medium-duty commercial applications with moderate traffic
- Grade 3: Light-duty commercial or residential use (rarely used for push bars)
Grade 1 Push Bars: The Premium Option
Durability and Performance
Grade 1 push bars are engineered to withstand intense usage in high-traffic environments. They typically undergo rigorous testing, including:
- Operational cycle testing of 1,000,000+ cycles
- Higher resistance to force and abuse
- Stringent fire safety testing
- Enhanced resistance to vandalism and tampering
Ideal Applications
Grade 1 push bars are recommended for:
- Schools and educational facilities
- Hospitals and healthcare settings
- Government buildings
- Large retail establishments
- Stadiums and event venues
- Any facility with high daily traffic volumes
Cost Considerations
While Grade 1 hardware comes with a higher initial investment (typically 30-50% more than Grade 2), the extended lifespan and reduced maintenance often result in lower lifetime costs.
Grade 2 Push Bars: The Mid-Range Solution
Durability and Performance
Grade 2 push bars offer reliable performance for moderate-use settings:
- Operational cycle testing of 500,000+ cycles
- Good resistance to standard use
- Meets basic fire safety requirements
- Reasonable security features
Ideal Applications
Grade 2 push bars are well-suited for:
- Small to medium office buildings
- Boutique retail locations
- Religious facilities
- Light industrial settings
- Storage facilities
- Buildings with moderate traffic flow
Cost Considerations
Grade 2 hardware provides a balance between performance and cost, making it an attractive option for buildings where budget constraints exist but safety cannot be compromised.
Making the Right Choice for Your Facility
When deciding between Grade 1 and Grade 2 push bars, consider:
- Traffic Volume: How many people use the exit daily?
- Usage Patterns: Is the door used frequently throughout the day?
- Security Requirements: Does the location require enhanced security features?
- Budget Constraints: Initial cost vs. long-term value
- Code Requirements: Local building codes may dictate minimum standards
- Aesthetic Considerations: Both grades come in various finishes and styles
Installation and Maintenance: Critical Factors
Even the highest-grade hardware will fail if improperly installed or maintained. Professional installation ensures your push bars function as intended during emergencies.
Regular maintenance checks should include:
- Ensuring proper alignment
- Checking for loose fasteners
- Testing latching mechanisms
- Lubricating moving parts
- Verifying alarm connections (if equipped)
Expert Guidance When You Need It
Selecting the right grade of push bar for your commercial property requires balancing safety, security, budget, and compliance factors. For property owners in need of expert guidance, Driscoll’s Lock & Key provides professional consultation services to help determine the most appropriate exit devices for your specific needs.
Their team of certified locksmiths can assess your facility, recommend appropriate hardware grades, and ensure proper installation that meets all local building codes and safety requirements. With decades of experience in commercial security, Driscoll’s Lock & Key can help you make an informed investment in your building’s safety infrastructure.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for Grade 1 or Grade 2 push bars, the most important factor is making a choice that appropriately addresses your facility’s specific needs. By understanding the differences between these grades and consulting with security professionals, you can make an investment that enhances safety without unnecessary expense.
Remember that the true value of quality exit hardware becomes apparent during emergencies—precisely when you need these devices to perform flawlessly. Choose wisely, maintain diligently, and prioritize the safety of your building’s occupants above all else.