Vertical-rod panic exit devices provide top and bottom latching for public-access doors under EN 1125. They are the go-to choice for double doors and wide exits, delivering secure closure at two points and reliable, immediate egress. EKIN supplies surface and concealed variants with UK-focused guidance on keepers, floor conditions and fire-door use.
A horizontal touch bar operates rods that retract two latches—one at the head, one at the threshold. This configuration stabilises pairs of doors and helps maintain alignment under heavy traffic. Choose vertical rod when a double door needs EN 1125 compliance or when the opening is wider than typical single-leaf limits.
Compare configurations → /panic-exit-devices-en-1125/
Two-point security — top & bottom latching reduces leaf rattle and improves closing reliability on pairs.
Designed for double doors — works with meeting stiles or a centre mullion.
Public-access ready — full-width touch bar for intuitive operation.
Variants for different sites — surface vertical rods for easy service; concealed rods for protected aesthetics.
Door pair width and each leaf width within the device range.
Meeting stile or centre mullion? Choose the matching strikes/keepers.
Threshold conditions — floor type, presence of a floor strike or surface strike plate.
Fire-door? Confirm device, strikes and fixings are approved for your door certificate.
Handing & swing — verify bar height and rod travel.
Need help? Door Size & Compatibility → /door-size-compatibility/
Correct strike geometry is essential for smooth egress and relatching:
Top keeper (head) — match to frame profile; ensure clear rod travel and proper seating.
Bottom strike — pick floor strike (recessed) where thresholds allow, or surface strike where recessing isn’t possible.
Centre mullion option — use a mullion-specific keeper or a double-door kit that includes all matched parts.
See keepers and packers in Accessories → /accessories/
Surface vertical rods — faster to install and service; ideal for schools, arenas and warehouses.
Concealed vertical rods — protected inside the door; check door prep and ensure adequate access for maintenance.
Talk to us if you’re unsure which variant suits your door construction.
EN 1125 applies to public-access routes; operation must not require prior knowledge.
Many vertical-rod systems are fire-door compatible when used with the specified strikes, screws and fixings. Always match approvals to your door certificate.
Keep an inspection log (operate force, relatching, fixings, signage) for audits.
Read more → EN 1125 Guide /bs-en-1125-guide/ · Inspection Checklist (PDF) /inspection-checklist/
Centre mullions & keepers matched to your frame solution.
Outside trims and cylinder kits for controlled re-entry from the safe side.
Dogging keys/covers for authorised hold-open on non-fire doors (check local rules).
Browse → /accessories/
How to Install a Push Bar — bar height, rod adjustment, keeper alignment. /how-to-install-push-bar/
Maintenance & Troubleshooting — slow return, mis-latching, bottom strike wear. /maintenance-troubleshooting/
Downloads & datasheets — /installation-pdfs/
Schools, theatres and assembly spaces — double exits with heavy traffic.
Retail and public venues — paired doors on the main egress route.
Warehouses and factories — wide openings requiring stable relatching.
See more use cases → /solutions/
Q1: Why choose vertical-rod instead of rim?
Vertical-rod provides two-point latching and is the standard choice for double doors. Rim is usually for single doors.
Q2: Do I need a floor strike at the bottom?
Often yes. If the threshold allows recessing, use a floor strike; otherwise specify a surface strike that suits the finished floor.
Q3: Can vertical-rod systems be used on fire doors?
Many can, provided the device and all strikes/fixings are approved for the door certificate. Always verify before drilling.
Q4: We have a centre mullion—what changes?
Use a mullion-specific keeper or a double-door kit that includes compatible strikes. Confirm clearances and signage.
Q5: Are concealed vertical rods better?
They protect hardware and look cleaner, but require door prep and thought for future servicing. Surface rods are quicker to install and maintain.
Send leaf widths/thicknesses, public access (yes/no), fire-door status, centre mullion details and photos. We’ll propose a compliant vertical-rod configuration with an itemised price in £.
Request a Quote → /quote/
Use the Selector → /product-selector/
