BS EN 1125 Explained – Panic Exit Devices for Public Access | EKIN

Key requirements: operation forces, durability, fire door compatibility and inspections. Compare with EN 179 and browse compliant hardware.BS EN 1125 applies to public-access routes where users must be able to exit without prior knowledge of the hardware. It covers panic exit devices with a full-width touch bar (push bar). This guide explains where EN 1125 applies, how to choose the right configuration (rim / vertical-rod / mortise / double-door kits), and how to install, document and inspect for compliance. 

1) Scope & when Panic exit devices EN 1125 is required

• Public access: doors used by the public, visitors, pupils, audiences or anyone unfamiliar with the building.

• Operation: a full-width touch bar must allow immediate opening with a single, intuitive action.

• Not for trained-only areas: use EN 179 (push pad or lever) for staff-only spaces.
  Compare → EN 179 overview /products/emergency-exit-devices-en-179/

2) Device families under Panic exit devices EN 1125 (quick comparison)

• Rim devices (single doors): Surface-mounted latch case with a horizontal touch bar. Fast to retrofit; pair with outside trims and cylinders where re-entry is needed.
  Learn more → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/rim/
  
  

• Vertical-rod devices (double doors or tall leaves): Top & bottom latching for two-point security and stable relatching on pairs. Requires head keepers and floor/surface strikes.
  Learn more → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/vertical-rod/
  
  

• Mortise devices (flush aesthetic): Lock case sits inside the door edge for a cleaner look; requires accurate edge preparation and matching trims/cylinders.
  Learn more → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/mortise/
  
  

• Double-door kits: Coordinated packs for pairs: vertical-rod pairs (no mullion) or paired rim devices on a centre mullion.
  Learn more → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/double-door-kits/

3) Installation & height notes (do it right, first time)

• Templates: use the manufacturer’s drilling template; set bar height within the recommended range.

• Engagement line: verify latch throw and keeper/strike seating before final tightening.

• Vertical-rod specifics: confirm top keeper clearance and choose recessed floor strikes where thresholds allow; use surface strikes otherwise.

• Closer interaction: test opening/relatching with the door closer fitted and adjusted.
  How-to & templates → /knowledge/how-to-install-push-bar/ · /downloads/installation-pdfs/

4) Double doors – two compliant routes

• A) Vertical-rod pairs (no centre mullion): Two-point latching top & bottom on each leaf; robust under heavy traffic; ideal for schools, assembly routes and warehouses.
  
  

• B) Paired rim + centre mullion: Keepers mount to the mullion (fixed or removable). Service-friendly; confirm mullion strength and clearances.
  See coordination options → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/double-door-kits/

5) Fire doors – approvals must match

On fire doors, approvals must align across:

1. Device model (EN 1125),

2. Strikes/keepers (head, floor/surface, mullion),

3. Fixings (screws/through-fix as specified).

Record component IDs against the door leaf certificate and keep datasheets with maintenance logs.
Accessories hub → /products/accessories/

6) Signage & unobstructed operation

• Fit compliant exit signage to the door/adjacent wall.

• Keep the touch bar unobstructed (no displays, rails or furniture blocking access).

• Where policy requires re-entry, specify outside trims and cylinder kits compatible with your device family and door thickness.
  Trims & cylinders → /products/accessories/outside-trim-handles/ · /products/accessories/cylinder-kits/

7) Inspection & record-keeping (UK-focused, globally applicable)

Adopt a scheduled log to support audits:

• Frequency: monthly + after works/events.

• Checks: operation force, relatching, fixings, keeper seating, closer action, signage, visible damage.

• Records: door ID, device family, accessories used, remedial actions, date/initials.
  Download → Inspection Checklist (PDF) /compliance/inspection-checklist/
  Maintenance tips → /knowledge/maintenance-troubleshooting/

8) Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

1. Wrong standard (using EN 179 on public routes) → Default to EN 1125 for public access.

2. Bar too low/high → Follow the template height range.

3. Poor keeper seating → Dry-fit, check the engagement line, shim if necessary.

4. No floor strike on pairs → Use recessed floor strikes where possible; surface strikes only where necessary.

5. Mismatched trims/cylinders → Use device-family–compatible parts and correct cylinder length.

6. Obstructions (merchandise/furniture) → Keep the bar and swing path clear.

7. Missing approvals on fire doors → Match device + strike/keeper + fixings to the door certificate.

8. No inspection trail → Keep a log with dates, actions and signatures.

9) Quick selector – choose your starting point

• Single public door: start with EN 1125 rim → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/rim/

• Double doors (no mullion): vertical-rod pairs → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/vertical-rod/

• Double doors (centre mullion): paired rim + mullion keepers → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/double-door-kits/

• Design-led frontage: EN 1125 mortise → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/mortise/

FAQ – BS EN 1125

Q1: EN 1125 vs EN 179—how do I decide?
If the route is public access, specify EN 1125. Use EN 179 only for trained-only doors.

Q2: What installation height should I use?
Follow the manufacturer’s template within the recommended bar-height range; confirm comfortable operation for all users.

Q3: What should I use on double doors?
Either vertical-rod pairs (no mullion) or paired rim with a centre mullion; both can be compliant when matched to the door and frame.

Q4: Floor strike or surface strike?
Prefer recessed floor strikes where thresholds permit; otherwise use surface strikes rated for your finished floor and traffic.

Q5: Are trims and cylinders part of compliance?
Yes—on fire doors, trim, cylinder, strikes/keepers and fixings must match the door certificate.

Q6: Why does the door fail to relatch after busy periods?
Usually keeper misalignment or loose fixings. Re-check the template, latch throw and closer speed; tighten progressively and log the adjustment.

Send door photos, single or double, centre mullion/threshold details, fire-door status and any re-entry needs. We’ll propose an EN 1125-compliant configuration with an itemised price in £.

• Request a Quote → /quote/
  
  

• Use the Selector → /tools/product-selector/