Understanding the key differences between a duress alarm and a panic button is essential when planning a comprehensive security systems solution for your premises. While both devices are used in emergencies to summon help, they are designed for different scenarios, environments, and types of threats.
From workplace safety and personal protection to emergency communication devices used in government buildings, knowing when to use a duress alarm versus a panic button could be the difference between an effective response and an escalated crisis.
A duress alarm system is a specialised safety device used to discreetly signal for help in situations where a person is under threat but cannot raise attention openly. These are most commonly deployed in environments where security threats, workplace violence, or high stress situations are likely to occur to ensure emergency assistance can be provided . Duress alarms are designed to send silent alerts for discreet emergency situations, ensuring that help can be summoned without escalating the threat.
Duress buttons are ideal for environments where discretion and subtlety are paramount. They are often installed out of sight, such as under desks, inside drawers, or mounted beneath counters, allowing personnel to trigger an alert without alerting the aggressor. A single press of the button is enough to initiate the signal.
Examples of where duress alarms are commonly used include:
These systems are linked to an security alarm monitoring centre, security personnel, or law enforcement, and are often integrated with access control systems and real-time monitoring tools. Because duress alarms are associated with imminent danger, alerts are typically treated with high priority by emergency services.
In recent years, duress alarms have become an essential part of occupational safety, especially in roles where staff interact directly with the public or in emotionally charged situations. When combined with real-time location tracking and long battery life in wearable devices, these alarms ensure personnel are protected at all times, even in mobile or remote work environments.
A panic button, by contrast, is used to raise a loud and immediate alarm in response to a visible or fast-escalating threat. When activated, panic buttons typically trigger an immediate alert through udible alarms, flashing lights, or building-wide notifications. They are often installed in visible locations to ensure that any occupant can quickly access and activate them.
Panic buttons are meant to prompt evacuation or lockdown and quickly notify all individuals of an emergency. These devices are commonly found in:
Panic buttons can be wall-mounted, desk-mounted, or part of wearable devices. The goal is maximum visibility and immediate awareness of threats for large groups of people. As with duress alarms, they can be activated with a single press of a button, and are often linked to emergency response plans and monitoring centres.
They are most effective in high occupancy facilities, where it is critical to notify all individuals of a threat in real time. Whether during an active shooter situation or a facility-wide evacuation, panic buttons play a vital role in keeping people informed and safe.
| Feature | Duress Alarm | Panic Button |
|---|---|---|
| Alert Type | Silent and discreet | Audible and visible |
| Main Purpose | Discreet help without escalating situation | Immediate mass notification and response |
| Ideal Use Case | Hostage situations, covert threats | Medical emergencies, security breaches |
| Placement | Hidden (under desks, counters) | Visible and easily accessible |
| Activation | Single button press | Single button press |
| Environment | High-risk environments needing subtle alerts | High occupancy locations needing loud alerts |
| Typical Locations | Banks, retail, hospitals, government offices | Schools, large facilities, public spaces |
| Integration | Access control, monitoring centres | Alarm systems, public address, evacuation plans |
| User Training Required | Yes | Yes |
Both systems are widely deployed across multiple industries and environments to enhance personal safety and support emergency response:
These systems are becoming common in sectors where emergency or dangerous situations are likely, and many facilities are now required by regulation or internal policy to install them. Integrating both systems into a comprehensive security network ensures layered protection for personal safety , reduces response time, and improves coordination with emergency personnel.
Choosing between a duress alarm and panic button depends on your facility’s threat profile, occupancy, and response plan, especially in high risk environments .
Consider the following:
Additionally, it is important to assess not just the hardware, but also the response procedures that follow activation. How quickly are first responders notified? Is there a plan in place to evacuate or lock down the building? Are internal communication systems prepared to handle the alert?
In some cases, combining the two systems offers the most robust solution.
For example, an employee might press a duress button to discreetly summon security devices, while a panic button is used moments later to alert the entire facility.
This layered approach enhances response and enables organisations to manage both covert and overt threats effectively.
Ultimately, whether you are protecting staff from workplace violence, preparing for a security breach, or ensuring safety in high occupancy public spaces, the right alert system makes all the difference.
At Castle Security, we specialise in:
We understand that no two facilities are alike. That’s why we conduct site specific assessments to ensure that every duress and panic solution is tailored to your unique risks and environment. From government buildings and corporate offices to healthcare settings and retail environments, we have the tools and experience to implement the most effective response plan.
Contact us to learn how we can help protect your people, improve your emergency response plan, and coordinate with local law enforcement to build a future of enhanced security tailored to your environment.
