Introduction: Meet the RGL PBB02/GN Green Surface Back Box
The RGL PBB02/GN is a compact, surface-mounted back box finished in a distinctive green colour. With an external footprint of 90×90 mm and a shallow depth of 28 mm, it is purpose-built to accept standard exit/egress push buttons, push plates and a range of compatible access-control hardware. Designed as a practical, low-cost mounting accessory, this back box is commonly supplied alongside exit buttons, push plates and related door-entry equipment, and is ideal for both retrofit and new installations where a shallow surface-mounted solution is required.
Key features at a glance
- Shallow depth:28 mm profile suitable for most standard push buttons and plates.
- Standard footprint:90×90 mm external dimensions that accept an 85×85 mm stainless steel plate.
- Conduit-ready:Knockouts provided for neat conduit entry and wiring.
- Surface-mounted convenience:Simple to install on walls where flush mounting is not possible or desirable.
- Colour-coded finish:Green (GN) finish that can be used for visual identification or to match site aesthetics.
- Cost-effective:Positioned as an economical mounting accessory for access-control and egress hardware.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The RGL PBB02/GN is engineered with the practical needs of installers and facilities managers in mind. Its key technical details include:
- Manufacturer:RGL
- Product code:PBB02/GN
- Type:Surface back box (for exit buttons)
- Colour:Green (GN)
- Depth:28 mm
- External dimensions:90 × 90 × 28 mm (H × W × D)
- Plate compatibility:Fits 85 × 85 mm stainless steel plate
- Conduit entry:Knockouts provided for conduit entry
- Material / IP / Weight:Insufficient data in supplied information — consult the RGL datasheet for exact material specification, IP rating and weight
Benefits derived from these specifications include a compact profile that reduces protrusion from the mounting surface, while still allowing sufficient depth to house most push-button mechanisms and wiring. The standard 90×90 mm footprint and compatibility with 85×85 mm plates make the PBB02/GN straightforward to pair with commonly available stainless steel plates and push plates, simplifying procurement and installation planning.
The provided conduit knockouts enable tidy cable entry and routing, which helps maintain a professional-looking installation and protects wiring from wear. The green finish is useful where colour coding or visual recognition is desired — for example, to indicate emergency egress points or to match site-specific safety colour schemes.
Installation, compliance and practical considerations
Typical installation should be performed by a qualified electrician or competent installer. The manufacturer provides feature sheets and diagrams on the RGL product page; these should be consulted for exact mounting hole centres, knockout sizes and any compliance markings (such as CE or UKCA). If you require more detailed technical data (material type, IP rating, weight), refer to the RGL datasheet or contact RGL directly before installation.
As with any surface box, consider the following during site planning: wall material and fixing method, the routing path for conduit or cabling, clearance for actuator operation, and environmental exposure. Where installations are in wet or outdoor environments, confirm the IP rating and material suitability, or choose a purpose-designed weatherproof box.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The RGL PBB02/GN is especially well suited to the following scenarios:
- Retrofit projects:When replacing or adding exit buttons in existing buildings where internal hiding of conduit is not possible, a shallow surface-mounted back box is an efficient and low-impact solution.
- Access-control systems:Mounting push buttons, push plates or door-release controls near entry/exit points in offices, warehouses and commercial premises.
- Emergency egress points:When a visible, colour-coded housing is desired for quick identification of exit controls.
- Temporary or modular installations:Surface-mounted boxes simplify changes and reconfiguration compared with flush-mounted alternatives.
- Cost-conscious projects:For facilities and contracting teams seeking an economical yet reliable method to mount standard plates and buttons.
Because of its shallow 28 mm depth the PBB02/GN is particularly useful where space behind the mounting surface is limited or where only a minimal projection is acceptable. Its compatibility with standard 85×85 mm plates ensures a neat finish and broad compatibility with commonly used stainless steel plates and push plates.
How it compares to similar products on the market
Surface back boxes are available in a range of materials, depths and ratings. The RGL PBB02/GN sits within the category of shallow, economical plastic surface boxes and compares as follows:
- Versus deeper surface boxes (e.g., 35–47 mm):Deeper boxes offer more room for wiring and for larger or multi-gang actuators, but they increase projection and may not be suitable where aesthetics or limited clearance matter. The PBB02/GN prioritises a low profile at the expense of internal volume.
- Versus metal back boxes:Metal boxes (steel or aluminium) provide greater mechanical robustness and potentially improved EMC characteristics, and can be preferred in industrial or high-traffic environments. The plastic RGL PBB02/GN is lighter, non-corroding and often less expensive, making it suitable for many commercial and institutional applications.
- Versus IP-rated outdoor boxes:Weatherproof or IP-rated back boxes should be chosen for external or wet areas; many of those are bulkier and more costly. Use the PBB02/GN for indoor, dry locations unless the datasheet confirms a suitable IP rating.
- Versus flush-mounted solutions:Flush boxes give a cleaner, recessed finish but require cutting into the mounting surface and are less flexible for retrofits. Surface boxes like the PBB02/GN are ideal when cutting into walls is not desirable or feasible.
Overall, the PBB02/GN is competitive where budget, shallow depth and plate compatibility are the priorities. For heavy-duty, outdoor or high-security requirements, consider metal or IP-rated alternatives.
Customer feedback and reviews
At the time of writing, there are no manufacturer-supplied customer testimonials included with the product brief. However, typical feedback for surface-mounted plastic back boxes commonly focuses on ease of installation, fit-and-finish with standard plates, and value for money. Installers often comment positively on products that provide accurate mounting hole centres and usable knockouts that simplify conduit entry.
When evaluating the PBB02/GN, consider requesting sample units or checking product reviews from resellers and installer forums. Key points to look for in reviews are the accuracy of hole centres relative to plates, the quality and durability of the plastic finish, and any notes about compatibility with specific plate manufacturers.
Price and procurement considerations
The RGL PBB02/GN is positioned as a cost-effective mounting accessory. The suggested retail price is around £10.99, making it an economical option for projects where many back boxes are required. For volume purchases, check with suppliers for bulk discounts or inclusion with exit button assemblies. Warranty information was not supplied in the product brief, so confirm warranty terms and return policies with your supplier before purchase.
Conclusion: Why choose the RGL PBB02/GN?
The RGL PBB02/GN Green Surface Back Box is a practical, low-profile solution for mounting exit buttons, push plates and access-control hardware. Its 28 mm shallow depth, standard 90×90 mm footprint and compatibility with 85×85 mm plates make it a flexible choice for retrofit and new installations where a tidy, surface-mounted finish is needed. Conduit knockouts ease wiring work, and the green finish offers visual identification or design coordination opportunities.
Choose this product if you need an economical, easy-to-install surface back box for indoor access-control or egress applications, and verify material and environmental suitability from the RGL datasheet for use in demanding or outdoor situations. For projects that require greater mechanical strength, larger internal volume or weatherproofing, consider metal or IP-rated alternatives. Overall, the RGL PBB02/GN provides straightforward functionality at a competitive price point for many commercial and institutional installations.
