Door Exit Devices FAQs

Balancing building security with reliable emergency egress is critical. Backed by over 16 years of hands-on trade installation experience, we have compiled the answers to the most common questions regarding door exit devices, fire compliance, and hardware maintenance.

Fire Safety and Legal Compliance

Are green break-glass switches legally required on fire doors?

Yes. UK fire safety regulations strictly mandate a direct mechanical override on any door fitted with an electronic lock on an emergency escape route. You must fit a green emergency break-glass switch on the un-secured (exit) side of the door. This guarantees that occupants can always escape if the primary access and control network fails during a fire.

How should I wire my exit devices to ensure fire safety compliance?

To meet safety standards, you must wire your emergency break-glass switch in series directly into the power feed of your fail-safe lock (such as a maglock). This configuration completely bypasses the main access and control panel. When a person activates the switch, it physically breaks the circuit, instantly dropping power to the lock regardless of the software status.

Choosing the Right Exit Hardware

What is the difference between standard 'Press to Exit' buttons and 'No-Touch' sensors?

Standard 'Press to Exit' buttons require a physical push to momentarily break the electrical circuit and release the lock. They are highly reliable workhorses for standard doors. 'No-Touch' sensors, on the other hand, use infrared technology to detect a hand wave from a few inches away. Because users never physically touch the unit, they are incredibly hygienic and suffer far less mechanical wear, making them the perfect choice for hospitals, food prep areas, and busy office corridors.

Are your door exit devices compatible with 12V and 24V systems?

Yes, the vast majority of our door exit switches and buttons offer dual 12V and 24V DC compatibility. They will integrate seamlessly with your existing power supply units and locking mechanisms, providing complete flexibility when upgrading your access and control hardware.

Maintenance and Daily Operation

How do I reset an emergency break-glass unit after it has been used?

Older systems required you to sweep up and replace actual shattered glass, which posed a safety risk. Our modern units, such as the ABK-SPC, use a dropping plastic element instead. To reset the device, you simply insert the provided reset key into the bottom of the housing. This pops the plastic element back into its starting position, instantly restoring power to your access and control locks and securing the door again.

How can I prevent exit buttons from sticking in high-traffic areas?

Dirt ingress and heavy mechanical wear are the primary reasons cheap buttons stick. To prevent this, routinely wipe down the button housing with a soft cloth to stop grime from building up around the edges. For entrances with extreme footfall, we highly recommend fitting our heavy-duty stainless steel buttons or upgrading entirely to a no-touch infrared sensor. Installing trade-quality hardware from the start is the most effective way to eliminate frustrating maintenance callbacks.

Still have questions about your installation?
Our UK-based technical support team is ready to help you specify the perfect hardware for your site. Contact us today on 0333 880 4930.