How to Install a Push Bar Exit Device (EN 1125) – Step-by-Step Guide | EKIN

Tools, measurements, drilling and adjustments for rim/vertical rod devices. Common errors and checks. Download the checklist, get support.This step-by-step guide helps you install and commission EN 1125 push bars (rim, vertical-rod and mortise) so public-access doors open instantly and relatch reliably. For trained-only doors, see EN 179 instead. 

Before you start – checks, tools & safety

Check the door set

• Confirm the correct standard: public access = EN 1125; trained-only = EN 179.

• Identify door type: single or double, and whether a centre mullion is present.

• Confirm fire-door status and approvals; use only listed strikes/keepers and fixings.
  
  

Tools & materials

• Manufacturer’s drilling template, tape, square, awl/marker.

• Drill/driver, bits per template, countersink, sharp chisels (for mortise prep if required).

• Screw set/through-fixings per datasheet, shims/packers, protection plates for floor strikes.

• PPE: eye protection, gloves, hearing protection.
  
  

Safety

• Isolate work area; keep egress available via alternative route.

• Never modify certified components; follow template and datasheet exactly.

Installation height & templates (all device families)

• Set bar height within the manufacturer’s recommended range (use the paper template).

• Mark the engagement line for latch/bolt throw and keeper position.

• Dry-fit the device, verify clearance to seals/furniture, then pilot-drill and fix.

Part A – Rim push bar (single public door)

1. Template & mark-up: Align the template at the chosen bar height; mark spindle, fixings and latch case.

2. Prepare latch case: Drill per template; fix the rim case square to the door edge.

3. Fit the bar & cover: Mount the touch bar to the case and opposite support; check free travel.

4. Set the strike/keeper:

   • Timber/steel frame: position the strike to capture the full latch throw without drag.

   • Fine-tune with shims; tighten progressively.

5. Outside trim & cylinder (if required): Install the matching trim and euro cylinder (key–key or key–thumbturn); verify re-entry operates the device correctly.

6. Test: With the door closer fitted, open, release and confirm three consecutive positive relatches.

Learn more → Rim devices /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/rim/
Accessories → Outside Trim /products/accessories/outside-trim-handles/ 

· Cylinder Kits /products/accessories/cylinder-kits/

Part B – Vertical-rod push bar (pairs without a centre mullion)

1. Template & bar: Mount the cross-bar and vertical-rod mechanism per template.

2. Top keeper: Fix the head keeper; ensure correct clearance so the top latch enters cleanly without scuffing.

3. Bottom strike:

   • Prefer a recessed floor strike for durability; cut pocket and fit the protection plate.

   • If recessing isn’t possible, use a surface strike rated for your floor finish and traffic.

4. Synchronisation: Adjust rods so both latches release and re-engage with a smooth, simultaneous action.

5. Commissioning: Fit/adjust the door closer; verify three consistent open-and-relatch cycles.

6. Records: Note keeper type (head/floor/surface), shim use and final measurements.

Learn more → Vertical-Rod /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/vertical-rod/
Double-Door Kits → /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/double-door-kits/
Strikes & Keepers → /products/accessories/strikes-keepers/

Part C – Mortise push bar (flush aesthetic on public doors)

1. Edge preparation: Follow the mortise lock case cut-out template exactly; avoid over-cutting corners.

2. Fit the case & spindle: Check alignment so the touch bar moves freely without binding.

3. Strike/keeper: Seat the strike to capture full bolt/latch throw; shim as needed.

4. Trims & cylinder: Use family-compatible outside trims; select the correct cylinder length/profile for the door build-up.

5. Commission: With the closer fitted, verify three consistent relatches and smooth return.

Learn more → Mortise /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/mortise/

Paired doors with a centre mullion (paired rim option)

• Use paired rim devices with mullion keepers; confirm mullion rigidity and clearance.

• Seat both keepers evenly to prevent rattle; test three consecutive relatches.

See options → Double-Door Kits /products/panic-exit-devices-en-1125/double-door-kits/

Keepers & strikes – getting the seating right

• Mark the engagement line and check full latch/bolt throw.

• Prefer recessed floor strikes for vertical-rod bottoms; use surface strikes only where recessing isn’t feasible.

• For metal frames, use the supplied plates/screws; avoid thin-gauge pull-out by through-fixing where specified.

Closer interaction & final commissioning

• Fit the door closer and set sweep and latch speed so the door closes positively without slamming.

• Confirm three consecutive open-and-relatch cycles on each door.

• Check signage is visible; ensure the route and swing path are unobstructed.

• Record model numbers, keeper types, cylinder details and final settings.

Inspection log → /compliance/inspection-checklist/

Troubleshooting (quick fixes)

• Slow return / jamming: Usually keeper misalignment or over-tightened fixings—re-set engagement, loosen/retighten evenly, retest with the closer.

• Rattle on pairs: Check both top & bottom latching (vertical-rod) or mullion keepers (paired rim).

• Latch scuffs the strike: Raise/lower the strike with shims; confirm full throw and clean entry.

• Trim or cylinder won’t actuate the bar: Verify trim family compatibility, spindle engagement and cylinder length/profile.

• Bottom strike wear: Fit/refresh protection plate; consider switching to recessed strike.

Maintenance tips → /knowledge/maintenance-troubleshooting/

Documentation & downloads

• Installation templates & datasheets → /downloads/installation-pdfs/

• Door size & compatibility → /knowledge/door-size-compatibility/

• Compliance – Exit Devices EN 1125 → /compliance/bs-en-1125-guide/

• Compliance – Exit Devices EN 179 → /compliance/bs-en-179-guide/

FAQ – Installing Push Bars

Q1: What bar height should I use?
Use the manufacturer’s template range and verify comfortable operation for all users.

Q2: Floor strike or surface strike on vertical-rod sets?
Prefer recessed floor strikes where thresholds permit; use surface strikes only when recessing isn’t practical.

Q3: Can I use EN 179 hardware on a public door?
No—public routes require EN 1125 with a full-width touch bar.

Q4: How do I enable re-entry from the safe side?
Specify outside trims & cylinder kits compatible with your device family and door thickness.

Q5: The door passes open, but won’t relatch after fitting the closer—why?
Latch/keeper alignment or closer latch speed is off. Re-set the keeper, adjust the closer and re-test.

Need a device list for your project? Send door photos, single or double, centre mullion/threshold details, fire-door status and any re-entry needs. We’ll specify a compliant kit with an itemised price in £.

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

• Request a Quote → /quote/