Push bars, also known as crash bars or panic bars, are essential safety features on commercial and public building doors, designed to allow quick and easy exit in case of emergencies. While their primary function is to facilitate safe egress, modern design trends and technological advancements have pushed the boundaries, allowing push bars to be customized to meet both aesthetic and functional needs. Customizing push bars can enhance a building’s overall design, improve usability, and even incorporate advanced technology for added security and convenience.
Aesthetic Customizations
- Material and Finish: Push bars are available in a variety of materials including stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and even wood. The choice of material can significantly affect the look and feel of the door hardware. For instance, stainless steel push bars offer a sleek, modern appearance suitable for contemporary designs, while brass can provide a more classic and elegant look.
- Color and Coating: Custom colors and coatings can be applied to push bars to match or complement the door and surrounding décor. Powder coating, for instance, offers a durable finish that can be tailored to almost any color. This customization ensures that the push bars do not stand out awkwardly but rather integrate seamlessly with the building’s interior design.
- Design and Shape: The design and shape of push bars can also be customized to suit specific aesthetic preferences. Rounded, angular, or sculpted designs can be chosen to match the architectural style of the building. Additionally, decorative elements such as engravings or inlays can be added to enhance the visual appeal.
Functional Customizations
- Size and Placement: The size and placement of push bars can be adjusted to meet specific requirements. Wider push bars can be used for doors that see heavy traffic, making them easier to push open. The height at which the push bar is installed can also be customized for accessibility, ensuring compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards.
- Enhanced Security Features: Modern push bars can be integrated with advanced security systems. Options include alarmed push bars that trigger an alert when activated, or push bars equipped with electronic locks that can be controlled remotely. These features enhance security by preventing unauthorized exits and allowing for better monitoring of building access.
- Ease of Use: Customizing the mechanics of push bars can improve their ease of use. For example, push bars with a lighter touch mechanism are ideal for environments where users may have reduced strength or dexterity, such as hospitals or care homes. Additionally, self-lubricating components can be used to ensure smooth operation over time with minimal maintenance.
Integrating Technology
- Smart Access Control: Integrating push bars with smart access control systems allows for greater flexibility and security. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or biometric systems can be used in conjunction with push bars to control access to restricted areas. This not only improves security but also provides a convenient and seamless way for authorized personnel to gain entry.
- Emergency Notification Systems: Push bars can be linked to building-wide emergency notification systems. When a push bar is activated, it can send a signal to alert building management or security personnel, ensuring a rapid response to potential emergencies. This integration can be particularly useful in large buildings or complexes where quick coordination is essential.
- Energy Efficiency: In some cases, push bars can be connected to building management systems that control lighting and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). Activating a push bar can trigger energy-saving modes, such as turning off lights or adjusting temperature settings in unoccupied areas, contributing to overall energy efficiency.
Customizing push bars to meet both aesthetic and functional needs allows for a harmonious blend of safety, style, and technology. By selecting appropriate materials, colors, and designs, push bars can complement the architectural vision of a building. At the same time, incorporating advanced features and technology enhances the usability and security of these critical components. As the demand for both visually appealing and highly functional building elements continues to grow, customized push bars represent an excellent opportunity to meet these dual objectives.
