The industry-leading Von Duprin line of fire-rated exit devices—commonly known as panic bars—is the reason we proudly sell Allegion brand products. These devices are not just hardware. They are life safety equipment born from tragedy and built to protect lives.
A Tragedy That Changed Safety Forever
In 1903, the Iroquois Theatre fire in Chicago claimed the lives of over 600 people, many of whom were trapped inside due to locked or jammed exit doors. The disaster shocked the nation and highlighted a dangerous gap in building safety: the inability for large groups to quickly and safely exit a building in an emergency.
In response, Carl Prinzler and Herbert Dupont of the Vonnegut Hardware Company in Indianapolis developed the first mechanical exit device in 1908. The name Von Duprin is derived from their names and reflects their mission to create a safer way out. Their invention would become a turning point in life safety and fire code development around the world.
How Modern Von Duprin Exit Devices Work
Today’s Von Duprin exit devices are precision-engineered to deliver life-saving performance in the most demanding environments, including fire-rated exit devices. Designed to provide instant egress with a single motion, these devices eliminate the need for keys, knobs, or special knowledge to exit a building—ensuring occupants can leave quickly in case of fire, active threats, or other emergencies.
Fire-rated Exit Devices Perfect for Your Building or Campus
Von Duprin exit devices are installed on doors in:
- Schools (K12 and college campuses)
- Hospitals & Medical Facilities
- Government buildings
- Retail stores
- Theaters
- Factories
- and more!
Available in Different Models
- Rim
- Mortise
- Vertical Rod
- Concealed Vertical Rod
Many models offer integration with access control systems, delayed egress functions, electric latch retraction, and alarm monitoring. These features allow building owners to balance code compliance with security requirements while protecting lives.
Built from Necessity. Trusted for Over a Century.
When it comes to protecting lives and reducing liability, there’s no substitute for hardware that’s been tested, certified, and time-proven in real-world emergencies:
- Durability
- Code Compliance
- Reliability under stress
- NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code)
- NFPA 89 (Fire Door Inspections)
- ANSI/BHMA
Why Able Locksmiths Chooses Von Duprin Fire-rated Exit Devices
At Able Locksmiths, our commitment to life safety is non-negotiable. That’s why we install Von Duprin exit hardware for our commercial clients.
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Certified products from one of the most trusted brands in security
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Fully compliant with life safety, fire, and accessibility codes
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Rugged and dependable in high-traffic environments
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Backed by Allegion, a global leader in security solutions
We install hardware with code compliance and occupant safety in mind. Our technicians know modern life safety and fire codes.
Safety Is Never Optional
We see incorrect installations of hardware and non-compliant hardware on fire doors from untrained or uncertified individuals. In life safety situations, poor workmanship isn’t just inconvenient—it can be fatal.
At Able Locksmiths, we don’t just install hardware. We design and deliver integrated, code-compliant systems that protect people, property, and peace of mind.
From commercial buildings to campuses to hospitals, we ensure every opening performs its function—especially when lives are on the line.
Able Locksmiths. Certified. Code-Compliant. Concerned About What Matters.
When did you last have your fire doors inspected? If it has been more than 12 months, call Able today!
301-662-7275
304 West Patrick St.
Frederick, MD 21701