Escapologic: Howitz

I was taking one of my friends to play their first escape room and they were nervous about it being horror and about being claustrophobic. 
So before starting I asked where the emergency button was to open the door, and we got a blank look followed by a snide remark. 

I was under the impression that after those poor kids died in the escape room fire it was a law requirement for all doors to be openable by the inside. 

Other escape rooms I have visited have 'Press to Exit' buttons which you're always warned against pressing unless its an emergency. Or even a key hanging next to the door... something!! Some even have Fire Exits inside the room with the push bar style doors. 

I fount out afterwards that my friend was extremely upset and worried throughout the whole experience and did not enjoy a single moment due to worry but didn't want to say anything at time and ruin my gift. 
From speaking to others about this, it seems all of this venues rooms dangerously lock you inside for real with no way of letting yourself out in case of an emergency.