Your Building’s First Line of Defense in an Emergency

You never want to think about emergencies—but you do need to be ready for them. Whether it’s a fire, power failure, or sudden threat, panic hardware gives people a fast, safe way out. It’s more than just a compliance checkbox. It’s your building’s silent lifesaver.

At MF Services, we supply and install panic hardware designed to perform when it matters most. From high-traffic offices to healthcare environments, our emergency exit devices are trusted, tested, and fully compliant.

Let’s break down everything you need to know—from how panic bars work to where they’re required and why the right installation makes all the difference.

What Is Panic Hardware, Really?

Panic hardware—also known as panic bars or crash bars—is a type of emergency exit device installed on the inside of doors. With a simple push of a horizontal bar, the door unlatches and opens instantly—no keys, twisting handles, or delays.

It’s not just smart design. In many buildings, it’s the law. Panic hardware is required by codes like the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, the International Building Code (IBC), and various local fire safety standards—especially in places where 50+ people may gather.

Here’s what makes panic hardware essential:

  • A one-motion release that lets people exit quickly
  • Compatibility with fire-rated doors
  • ADA-compliant design for accessibility
  • Options for alarm or access control integration

When seconds matter, this kind of hardware saves lives—and helps businesses meet their legal duty of care.

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Why Panic Hardware Is More Than a Requirement

Yes, it keeps you compliant. But panic hardware offers so much more.

It keeps your staff, visitors, and customers safe in a crisis. It reduces the risk of injury, minimises panic, and ensures exits are never a bottleneck.

Here’s what else you gain:

Quick and intuitive egress
Even in smoke or low-visibility conditions, people instinctively know how to use panic bars.

Regulatory peace of mind
Our hardware complies with the highest industry standards—UL 305, EN 1125, and more.

Secure and smart
Advanced models work seamlessly with access control systems, alarms, and lockdown protocols.

Durable and low-maintenance
Built for high traffic and constant reliability, with easy upkeep.

No fumbling. No confusion. Just push and go.

Where Panic Hardware Delivers Critical Value

From public buildings to industrial facilities, panic hardware protects lives across countless environments.

Here’s where it’s commonly used:

In education
Schools and universities rely on panic bars for safe and compliant classroom and gymnasium exits.

In healthcare
Hospitals need rapid evacuation routes. Paired with hygienic GRP doors, our solutions are perfect for high-sensitivity areas.

In commercial and office spaces
Ensure a safe route from stairwells, meeting rooms, and main exits.

In industrial environments
Factories and warehouses use panic hardware to protect staff working in high-risk areas.

In public venues
Stadiums, theatres, and civic buildings trust panic hardware to keep large crowds moving during an emergency.

Wherever there are people, there should be panic bars.

How Does Panic Hardware Work?

It’s simple on the surface—press the bar, and the door opens. But the engineering behind panic hardware is anything but basic.

A spring-loaded mechanism retracts the latch instantly when the bar is pressed. This allows the door to swing outward without any twisting or unlocking. Even in a crowd, people can exit smoothly and safely.

Different door types call for different panic hardware:

  • Rim exit devices for single doors 
  • Mortise devices for higher security entrances 
  • Vertical rod devices for double doors or full-height latching 
  • Touchbars for sleek, modern aesthetics 
  • Crossbars for traditional or retro styles 

Some systems can also integrate with automatic swing doors or other door hardware for added convenience and control.

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Installation and Long-Term Reliability

Correct installation is key to getting the most from your panic hardware. It’s not just about attaching a bar—it’s about ensuring the door, frame, and hardware work in perfect harmony.

At MF Services, we handle every detail:

  • Precise mounting to ensure smooth operation 
  • Full compliance checks with all fire and building codes 
  • Integration with alarms and access control 
  • Staff training on inspection and usage 

We also provide long-term servicing and replacement parts—so your investment stays safe and sound. If you’re upgrading your safety systems, we can also advise on locking devices, hinges, and closers to ensure a complete solution.

Why Choose MF Services for Panic Hardware?

When it comes to life safety, trust matters. MF Services is one of Ireland’s most trusted providers of high-specification panic hardware and emergency exit systems.

Here’s why we stand out:

  • Expertise you can rely on
    Our team has decades of experience fitting panic bars in schools, hospitals, retail spaces, and more. 
  • Certified quality
    All devices meet EN 1125 and UL 305 standards. You’ll never have to second-guess compliance. 
  • Seamless integration
    Need your exit device to talk to an alarm, sensor, or smart lock? We handle that too. 
  • Responsive support
    From installation to maintenance and emergency servicing, we’re with you every step of the way. 

We also offer a full range of specialist doors—including fire-resistant and acoustic options—to complement your panic hardware for a complete safety upgrade.

Real-World Performance That Speaks for Itself

During a recent fire drill at a Dublin healthcare facility, one of our panic bar systems helped evacuate a full floor in under 90 seconds. No staff delays. No system failures. Just a clear, compliant exit when it mattered most.

That’s the standard we deliver—every day.

Ready to Protect Your People and Property? Let’s Talk.

Emergencies don’t knock first. But with the right panic hardware, your exits will always be ready.

Let’s secure your building—efficiently, professionally, and with complete peace of mind.

👉 Request a free quote
👉 Book a consultation
👉 Explore our full range of door hardware

Because in an emergency, there’s no time for second guesses.

Case Studies

Health Sector
Bon Secours Hospital Cork

MF Services provide Access Control, CCTV, Parking and Door Automation throughout the hospital

Read Case Study
Industrial Sector
Carbon Chemicals Group

MF Services provides a range of services to this company including CCTV, Automatic Gates, Barriers and Access Control

Read Case Study
Retail Sector
Frascati Shopping Centre

MF Services provide a comprehensive and robust parking management system including 4 Entries, 4 Exits and 6 Pay Stations.

Read Case Study
Public Sector
Louth County Council

MF Services have supplied 230 Pay & Display Machines across Dundalk & Drogheda Towns

Read Case Study
Health Sector
South Infirmary Victoria Hospital

MF Services provided GRP Swing Doors, Hermetic Sliding Doors with full Theatre Control Panel Integration

Read Case Study
Public Sector
Kilkenny County Council

MF Services replaced all existing 65 Pay & Display Parking Machines around Kilkenny Castle

Read Case Study
Public Sector
Kerry County Council

MF Services replaced all existing 97 Pay & Display Parking Machines for Kerry County Council

Read Case Study

Other Industries & Sectors

Parking Systems

We have vast experience in Pay & Display, Barrier Parking Systems and Fixed fee on Exit system.

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Industrial Security Systems

Integrated Security Solutions for Industrial & Commercial Properties

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Automatic Doors

Simple barrier free access to your building

Find out more
Hotel Locks & Systems

Easy access and solutions for your guests

Find out more
Door Hardware

Wide Range of Door Hardware

Find out more

Is panic hardware required in every building?

Not all, but most commercial, healthcare, educational, and public buildings are required by law to install panic hardware on specific exits.

Can I install panic hardware on any door?

Generally yes—but the door must meet structural and compliance criteria. We’ll help you assess and adapt as needed.

How often should it be inspected?

Monthly checks are a great habit. We recommend a professional inspection at least once per year.

Is panic hardware compatible with alarms or electronic systems?

Absolutely. Many models are designed to work with electric strikes, access control, and fire alarm systems.

What’s the difference between panic and fire exit hardware?

Fire exit hardware is used on fire-rated doors and must pass specific fire resistance tests. Panic hardware is designed for quick egress and is required in various high-occupancy areas.