Use of a Visual Cue to Reduce Errors in Exiting a Crash-bar Type Door

Abstract

Fire codes require that exit doors utilize a horizontal bar to release the latch mechanism so that in a panic situation the door will open easily. Architects have incorporated this constraint into the design of entryways, but sometimes hide visual cues within the door itself, thereby creating perfect symmetry in the appearance of the door. If the visual cue of a doorknob is absent, the individual cannot know which side to push. Certain hazards result from this situation. Visual cues may be effective to alleviate this problem. A campus library and athletic center provided a location where a systematic field study could be made. Observations were collected over a four week period. The first two weeks determined a base rate of individuals' success/failure in pressing the correct side of the door. Another two weeks of data were collected where a visual cue was positioned on the proper side of the door. DV was success or failure in pressing the correct side of the door. IV was presence or absence of the visual cue. Data revealed that 37% of Ss demonstrated failure when there was no visual cue present to break the symmetry of the door, but only 6% failed with the visual cue present. No significant learning effect was found during the phase of no visual cue, but a significant learning effect was found for presence of cue. Applications may be made to door design and the design of other environments where individuals may need visual cues to make choices.