About this item
The S.Parker UL520 is a UL listed reversible rim panic exit device with a full-length push bar, designed for single doors from 25" to 36" wide in light commercial, multi-family, retail, and tenant improvement applications. If you're searching for "ul520," "ul panic hardware," or a push bar door lock solution for a standard commercial opening, this is the product. The 48-inch version for wider doors is the UL520-48, available separately.
What "UL" Means in the UL520 Model Name
The UL prefix in the model number is not a generic descriptor. It identifies this device as Underwriters Laboratories listed for panic exit hardware. UL listing for panic hardware means the device has been independently tested to verify that pressing the push bar will reliably release the latch and allow egress regardless of how the building's locking systems are configured. This is the certification required by building codes for egress doors on occupancies that need panic hardware.
Full Length Push Bar vs Touch Bar
The UL520 uses a full-length push bar that runs nearly the entire width of the door, rather than a shorter centered touch bar. A full-length bar is accessible from any position across the door width, which matters in emergency egress where someone may approach the door at any angle and needs to find the bar immediately. It also provides a more positive, complete contact surface when multiple people are pressing toward the door at once. This is the standard configuration for most commercial rim device applications.
Reversible: No Handing Required
The UL520 is horizontally reversible. During installation, the push bar and latch mechanism are oriented for either a right-hand or left-hand swinging door. You don't specify handing at the time of order. The installer determines the correct orientation on-site and sets it accordingly. This simplifies procurement on mixed-hand door projects and eliminates returns due to handing errors.
Function: Deadlatching and Dogging
The UL520 includes a deadlatch feature on the latch bolt. The deadlatch prevents the latch bolt from being slipped or depressed without pushing the bar. Without a deadlatch, the latch can sometimes be defeated with a plastic card or shim on the strike. With the deadlatch engaged, the secondary latch plunger is depressed by the strike plate when the door closes, which locks the main latch bolt against retraction without pushing the bar.
The device is also doggable. A standard hex key tool holds the push bar in the retracted position, converting the door to free-swing passage mode for periods of open access, loading, or traffic flow. Removing the hex key restores panic exit function.
Outside Trim Compatibility
The UL520 is compatible with the S.Parker LL520 Series lever trim for keyed outside access. The LL520 lever trim fits a standard ANSI #161 cutout and is available in dull chrome. Outside access options include cylinder trim, keyed ball knob, keyed lever, or pull-only trim. If your specification calls for a push bar door lock with outside keypad access, the UL520 would need to be paired with a compatible electric strike and access control reader rather than a direct keypad trim.
What's Included and Installation
The UL520 ships complete with the rim strike, latch and strike filler plates, shim, fasteners, mounting templates, and installation instructions. No additional hardware is needed for a standard installation on wood or metal doors.