Introduction to Door Exit Buttons

1. Definition and Function of Door Exit Buttons

Door exit buttons are essential components in various building access control systems. They serve a crucial role when an internal handle is either not suitable or when users are unable to physically use the handle. By simply pressing the exit button, the door is released, allowing for a free exit. These buttons are commonly used on fire doors or any electronic locking solutions that require a free - exit option. For example, in large office buildings, where there are many people moving in and out, exit buttons provide a quick and easy way to leave the premises, especially in emergency situations.

2. Types of Door Exit Buttons

Waterproof Door Release Exit Buttons

These buttons feature a waterproof design, typically with an IP68 rating. They usually have a stainless - steel panel and button, which not only gives them durability but also makes them suitable for use in wet or damp environments. With a mechanical life of up to 500,000 tests, these buttons offer long - term reliability. They have contact outputs of NC (Normally Closed) and NO (Normally Open), a thickness of 1.7mm, and are suitable for hollow doors. Their operating temperature ranges from 10 to +55ºC (14 - 131F), and they can work in an operating humidity of 0 - 95% (non - condensing).

Plastic Exit Buttons

Mini plastic exit buttons, like the EB - PV5 model, are often used for specific access control systems. They have a fireproof material, which enhances safety. These buttons are surface - mounted, with dimensions of 76Lx22Wx14H(mm). They operate on a DC12V input, have a contact rating of 3A/125 - 250VAC, and an output contact of NO/COM. With a mechanical life of 500,000 tests, they are also suitable for hollow doors and can operate in a wide temperature range of - 20℃～+55℃ (14 - 131F) and relative humidity of 0 - 95%.

3. OSHA Requirements and Door Exit Buttons

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements regarding exit route doors. In addition to ensuring that exit route doors can be opened without keys, tools, or special knowledge, there are further stipulations. For instance, a device such as a panic bar that locks only from the outside is permitted on exit discharge doors. However, the use of an electronic device that must be pressed before the panic bar can be activated, such as a “Push to Exit” button in some improper configurations, violates the intent of OSHA's 1910.36(d)(1). This is because employees trying to evacuate a smoke - filled room may not be able to locate the electronic device, leading to them being trapped at the exit door. OSHA may cite employers using such systems. Exit route doors also cannot have any device or alarm that would restrict emergency use of the exit.

4. How Emergency Door Release Works with Exit Buttons

The emergency door release mechanism is designed to override electrical locking/release devices, especially in the event of a power loss to the emergency exits. It features a double - pole design that changes the contacts from normally closed (N/C) to normally open (N/O). This allows the exits to function even without power. In buildings equipped with exit buttons, this mechanism ensures that during emergencies like power outages, people can still press the exit button and open the door, facilitating a quick and safe evacuation.

5. Commissioning of Door Exit Buttons

Commissioning door exit buttons is an important process to ensure their proper functionality. In the case of a FusionModule800 Smart Small Data Center, for example, the procedure for commissioning an in - room exit button involves checking its functions. When the aisle door is properly closed, pressing the exit button should result in the room door being opened properly. In other general scenarios, such as commissioning the exit button along with other components like skylight buttons, atmosphere lights, emergency buttons, and magnetic locks, several checks are carried out. For the exit button, attempts are made to open the door by pressing it when the aisle door is closed, and the normal connection status is considered successful if the aisle door opens successfully.

6. Market and Pricing of Door Exit Buttons

The market for door exit buttons is diverse, with a wide range of products available at different price points. There are various manufacturers offering different types of exit buttons. For example, stainless - steel waterproof exit buttons might range from a few dollars to more expensive models depending on their features and brand. Non - contact infrared sensor exit buttons also vary in price, with some costing around a few dollars to more than ten dollars. Wireless touchless exit buttons designed for disabled people can be relatively more expensive, in the range of $42 to $47. These price variations are due to factors such as material, functionality, durability, and the level of technology incorporated in the buttons.