Finding reliable fire rated exit hardware is essential for building safety and code compliance. This guide highlights top fire rated exit door options that balance durability, accessibility, and easy egress for high-traffic environments. Each product line below is designed to withstand heat, ensure rapid egress, and work with common door sizes in commercial settings. Read on to compare features, installation flexibility, and how these devices meet safety standards in real-world scenarios.
| Product | Brand | Door Width Range | Fire Rating | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device (31″-36″) | NUK3Y PRODUCTS K3 | 31″-36″ | Fire Rated (Option) | ADA certified, reversible panic, alarm option |
| Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device (30″-36″) | NUK3Y PRODUCTS K3 | 30″-36″ | Fire Rated (Option) | ADA certified, reversible panic, alarm option |
| Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device (30″-36″) | NUK3Y PRODUCTS K3 | 30″-36″ | Fire Rated (Option) | ADA certified, reversible panic, alarm option |
| HES 9600-630 Series | HES | Typically standard rim device widths | Fire Rated Surface Mounted | Rim exit device with stainless body |
| Yale 1800F-36 x 689 Rim Exit Device | Yale | 36″ wide doors | Fire Rated (UL/cUL listed) | ANSI/BHMA Grade 1, 3-hour fire rating |
Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device Grade 1 ADA Certified (31″-36″)
Grade 1 and ADA certified with over 500,000 test cycles, this panic exit device suits medium to high traffic doors. The UL-listed unit offers Fire Rated (Non-Dogging) options to meet building codes. Features reversible panic and lever trim for left or right handed doors, plus a Schlage SC1 keyway in lever trim for classroom or storeroom use. Dogging (Non-Fire Rated) enables quick opening by maintaining latchbolt retraction without lever or push bar rotation. Alarm option triggers sound during an emergency exit.
Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device Grade 1 ADA Certified (30″-36″)
With the same Grade 1 and ADA certification and robust cycle life, this variant covers doors from 30 to 36 inches. It includes the option for Fire Rated operation and supports reversible panic and trim for versatile installation. The dogging feature, when not fire rated, helps reduce effort for repeated use, while the alarm option enhances security and safety during emergencies.
Nuk3y ED-5000 Series Panic Bar Exit Device (30″-36″) – Exit Device Only
This fire-rated exit device option focuses on reliable operation for 30 to 36-inch doors. It preserves the same ADA certification and high traffic suitability, with reversible panic and lever trim. The product supports a fire-rated configuration and includes a dogging feature where applicable, plus an alarm option to alert during forced entry or emergencies.
HES 9600-630 Series Stainless Steel Fire Rated Surface Mounted Electric Strike
Designed for rim exit devices, the HES 9600-630 is a surface-mounted electric strike that is fire rated and tamper resistant. It handles static and dynamic loads, delivering a robust 1,500 lb static strength and 70 ft-lbs dynamic strength. Ideal for high-security applications where access control combines with fire safety requirements.
IRONWALLS Panic Bars For Exit Doors
These 32-inch stainless steel panic bars suit 32″-47″ doors with left or right hand installation and a cut-to-fit option for narrow widths. ANSI Grade 1 and ADA compliant, they offer reliable security with an exterior lever that requires a key, providing controlled access. The bar includes dogging as a standard feature, enabling quick egress in emergencies with a straightforward push action.
HISAFE Keyed Entry Grade 2 Door Locks – Fire Rated
Although primarily a lockset, this product line features fire rated capabilities and ADA compliance, with two locking modes and a reversible design. It fits doors with a 70mm backset and supports left or right hand configurations. This option provides an added layer of control for doors that require both accessibility and fire door considerations in commercial environments.
HES 9500 Fire Rated Electric Strike
Surface mounted, the HES 9500 is a fire rated electric strike designed for rim exit devices with a 3/4″ throw latchbolt. It adheres to NFPA 80-07 guidelines for retrofitting into fire-rated frames. The unit is dual voltage (12/24 VDC/VAC) and supports Grade-1 performance expectations, making it suitable for retrofit applications where fire resistance is essential.
Yale 1800F-36 Rim Exit Device
Certified ANSI/BHMA A156.3 Grade 1 and UL/cUL listed for fire doors up to 3 hours, this 36″ wide rim exit device is designed for compatibility with 32 to 36-inch doors. Fire rated and built for durability, Yale’s 1800F-36 model is a reliable choice for high-traffic commercial settings needing dependable egress during emergencies.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Fire rating alignment: Confirm whether a fire rated option is required for the door and the building’s code (3-hour or other rating). Look for UL/cUL or NFPA compliance marks.
- Door width and compatibility: Measure door width precisely and ensure the device supports the full range (e.g., 30″ to 36″). Check backset, door material (steel, aluminum, wood), and mounting requirements.
- Traffic and durability: For medium to high traffic, prioritize Grade 1/ANSI certified devices with robust test cycles and tamper resistance.
- Operation style: Decide between dogging capabilities, non-dogging Fire Rated modes, and whether an alarm feature is desirable for security during emergencies.
- Keying and access control: If lever trim or keyway is needed, verify compatibility with existing keys (e.g., Schlage SC1) and whether a keyed exterior matches interior egress requirements.
- Installation feasibility: Consider surface mount versus concealed install, and whether retrofit electric strikes are needed for access control integration.
- Maintenance and service: Choose models with readily available replacement parts and predictable maintenance cycles to minimize downtime.
- Code and safety alignment: Ensure the chosen hardware satisfies local fire, life safety, and building codes to avoid compliance issues during inspections.
Selected products above balance fire safety, accessibility, and reliability for American commercial settings. When selecting a fire rated exit door solution, align with door type, width, and the building’s occupancy requirements to ensure optimum performance in emergencies.