What device is also known as a panic bar and is often installed on exit doors?

A panic bar, often referred to as panic hardware, is a crucial safety feature installed on exit doors in commercial buildings and public spaces. It is designed to provide a quick and easy means of egress in case of an emergency. The mechanism allows individuals to push against a horizontal bar to open the door, facilitating immediate exit without the need for a key or complex action, which is especially important during emergencies such as fires or other hazardous situations.

The design of panic hardware complies with safety regulations to ensure that people can leave a building swiftly when necessary. This mechanism thus enhances safety by minimizing the risk of bottlenecks at exits and ensures that doors can be opened easily under stress.

Understanding its importance within the context of building and safety codes highlights why panic hardware is specifically integrated into structures to facilitate quick exits, which is not a function served by the other options listed.