Door Exit Buttons are panel mount switches that are used in access control systems to allow people to easily and safely exit a secured area. These buttons usually have a momentary function that essentially unlocks the door for a brief period after the button is pressed, or approached if it is touchless.
In this blog we’ll be diving into the types of door exit buttons and how they work, as well as applications and the benefits of using them.
Types of Door Exit Buttons
1. 'Push to Exit' Buttons
The RJS-EX1 and RJS-EX2 series are our large push to exit buttons. These user-friendly switches have eye-catching green actuators and are pre-mounted onto a variety of panels for simple installation.
Key Features of the RJS-EX1:
- A 50mm flat, round, green actuator
- 22mm panel cut out
- Non-illuminated
- Aluminium (4mm thick) or stainless steel (1.7mm thick) plate
- 86x86mm or 115x70mm plate size
- Various text or symbol options
Key Features of the RJS-EX2:
- A 32mm domed, round, green actuator
- 19mm panel cut out
- Non-illuminated
- 304 stainless steel plate (1.7mm thickness) in various sizes
- ‘PRESS TO EXIT’ text on plate
2. Touchless Switches
The RJS-TL is our series of touchless switches, which are another common choice for door exit buttons. These ‘no touch’ buttons utilise an infrared proximity sensor to detect heat radiation from 800nm – 1mm and open a door without the need for physical contact with the switch.
Key Features of the RJS-TL:
- Bi-colour illumination (blue and green)
- Momentary or adjustable delay function
- IP40 or IP68 rating
- Standard (0-10cm) or ‘sensitive’ (3-15cm) sensing distance
- Optional ‘NO TOUCH’ text on the face of the button
- Aluminium (4mm thick) or stainless steel (1.7mm thick) plate in various shapes and sizes
How do Door Exit Buttons Work?
Doors that require exit buttons are often locked permanently, so that only the use of a fob or code can grant access, and you can only get out again by triggering the exit button. Usually found on the inside of doors that are secured from the outside, these buttons allow egress from areas where entry is only permitted to authorised personnel. This means that said individuals can easily exit the area without having to use a key or other access control mechanism.
When activated – either by pressing the button or waving your hand in front of the touchless sensor – door exit buttons work by sending a signal to the access control system, which temporarily releases the electronic locking mechanism of the door. After a few seconds the mechanism will activate again, automatically re-locking the door.
What are the Benefits of Door Exit Buttons?
Enhanced Security
Door exit buttons are an essential component of any access control system, as they provide a convenient and reliable way to exit secure areas without the need for additional credentials. Plus, integrate seamlessly with maglocks and alarmed security systems for enhanced control.
Code Compliance
In many cases, exit buttons are critical in order for a building to comply with fire regulations and building codes, as any controlled areas still need to be easy and safe to evacuate in case of an emergency.
Accessibility
Due to their simple design and operation, both no touch switches and ‘push to exit’ buttons provide accessible exit options to people with disabilities. Plus, with a time-delay option available for these switches, they can be used in conjunction with auto-opening doors to make accessibility even easier.
Hygiene
A key benefit specific to touchless switches is that they are more sanitary and ergonomic than a standard push button, making them especially useful in areas where hygiene is important.
Applications of Door Exit Buttons
- Office Buildings – Allowing employees and visitors to exit easily. Especially common in shared office spaces, to control access to company-specific areas.
- Retail Stores – Keeping stock rooms or staff-only areas secure from members of the public.
- Residential Complexes – Providing residents with added security whilst still maintaining convenient access.
- Warehouses & Industrial Sites – Keeping sites safe and secure while allowing efficient movement of personnel and/or equipment.
- Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities – Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Touchless switches are particularly useful to minimise the spread of bacteria and cross-contamination in these buildings.
In Summary
Whether you’re in a commercial building, a residential complex or a healthcare facility, door exit buttons are an extremely effective way to keep access under control, whilst still allowing for easy egress.
If you’re interested in our push to exit buttons or touchless switches, our Sales Engineers are on hand to help you find the best components to suit your needs.
Interested in our products? Speak to us today!
How to place an order?
We operate Monday – Thursday (8 am – 5 pm) and Fridays (8 am – 4.30 pm)
Call us on +44 (0) 1234 213600 to speak to our Sales Engineers or e-mail us
on [email protected] alternatively, leave us a message using our online contact form.
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