When a door equipped with a panic exit device is opened, the latch is released and the door is free to swing open. This allows people to quickly exit a building in an emergency situation. The devices are commonly used in commercial buildings, such as office buildings and schools. Panic exit devices can be either push bars or crossbars. Push bars are the most common type of device, and they are located at the top of the door. Crossbars are located near the handle of the door. Both types of devices work by releasing the latch on the door when they are activated. This allows the door to be opened even if it is locked. Panic exit devices are required by code in many areas, and they can be either manual or automatic. Automatic devices are triggered by a fire alarm or other emergency signal, while manual devices must be activated by someone pushing the bar or crossbar. Panic exit devices are an important safety feature, and they can save lives in an emergency situation. If you are responsible for a commercial building, make sure that you have the proper type of device installed on all of your doors.