Maintaining push bars on doors is crucial for ensuring both their longevity and optimal performance. Push bars, often used in commercial buildings, schools, and other public facilities, are essential for safety, allowing for quick and easy egress during emergencies. Proper maintenance not only ensures compliance with safety regulations but also extends the life of these devices. Here are several tips for maintaining push bars effectively.
Regular Inspection
Regular inspection is the first step in maintaining push bars. Inspections should be carried out monthly to check for any signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. Look for loose screws, misalignment, or any parts that may be sticking or not functioning smoothly. Early detection of minor issues can prevent more significant problems and costly repairs later on.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Cleaning push bars regularly helps in maintaining their functionality and appearance. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate over time, leading to friction and operational issues. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to clean the push bars. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish. After cleaning, lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and debris.
Adjustments and Calibration
Push bars may require occasional adjustments to ensure they operate correctly. Over time, the alignment of the bar and the latch mechanism can shift due to regular use or building settling. Check that the push bar is level and aligned properly with the strike plate. Adjust the mounting screws as necessary to correct any misalignment. Ensure that the push bar retracts and releases the latch mechanism smoothly without excessive force.
Checking for Compliance
Push bars must comply with local building codes and safety regulations. Regularly review the relevant codes to ensure your push bars meet the necessary standards. This includes the force required to operate the push bar, the height at which it is installed, and any labeling or signage requirements. Non-compliance can result in fines and, more importantly, jeopardize the safety of building occupants.
Testing the Mechanism
Test the push bar mechanism regularly to ensure it functions correctly. This involves pressing the bar to see if it retracts the latch mechanism fully and allows the door to open smoothly. Check the return action of the push bar to ensure it springs back to its original position without sticking. Testing should be done during routine inspections and whenever there is a noticeable change in the door’s operation.
Replacing Worn or Damaged Parts
Even with regular maintenance, parts of the push bar mechanism will eventually wear out or get damaged. Replace worn or damaged parts promptly to avoid compromising the push bar’s functionality. This includes the push bar itself, the latch mechanism, springs, and any other components that show signs of wear. Always use manufacturer-recommended parts to ensure compatibility and reliability.
Training and Awareness
Ensure that maintenance staff and building occupants are aware of the importance of push bar maintenance. Train maintenance personnel on the proper procedures for inspecting, cleaning, and repairing push bars. Educate building occupants on the correct use of push bars, emphasizing that they should not be used as a regular entry or exit point to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Record Keeping
Maintain detailed records of all inspections, maintenance activities, and repairs carried out on push bars. This documentation can help track the condition of the push bars over time, identify recurring issues, and ensure that maintenance schedules are followed. Records can also be useful for compliance purposes and in the event of an audit or safety inspection.
Emergency Drills and Simulations
Conduct regular emergency drills and simulations to test the functionality of push bars under real-world conditions. These drills help identify any operational issues that may not be apparent during routine inspections. They also ensure that building occupants are familiar with the emergency exit procedures and can use push bars effectively during an actual emergency.
Maintaining push bars is a critical aspect of building safety and security. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning and lubricating the components, making necessary adjustments, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, testing the mechanism, replacing worn parts, providing training, keeping detailed records, and conducting emergency drills, you can extend the life of push bars and ensure they perform reliably when needed. Proper maintenance not only protects the investment in these safety devices but also safeguards the well-being of building occupants.