fire exit label

A fire safety FAQ from CDF Distributors

This guide answers: What labels are required on fire-rated doors and how do you read them?

Why Fire Door Labels Matter

Every fire-rated door, frame, and piece of hardware in a fire-rated assembly must carry a label from an accredited testing laboratory (Underwriters Laboratories, Intertek/WHI, or equivalent). The label is proof that the component was manufactured and tested to the fire resistance standard listed on the label. Without a valid label, the component cannot be used in a fire-rated assembly, and the assembly will fail inspection.

What Information Is on a Fire Door Label

A standard fire door label includes:

  • Testing laboratory name and logo (UL, WHI, etc.)
  • Fire protection rating (20 min, 45 min, 60 min, 90 min, or 180 min)
  • Maximum transmitted temperature rise (if applicable — 250°F, 450°F, or 650°F over 30 minutes)
  • Manufacturer name
  • Date of manufacture or unique identifier
  • Hose stream tested designation (if applicable)

Labels are permanently attached — typically as a metal tag, adhesive label, or stamp on the hinge edge of the door.

Where to Find the Label

  • Doors: Hinge edge, near the top hinge. On wood doors, the label is typically on the hinge stile.
  • Frames: The head of the frame (top) or the hinge jamb, typically near a corner.
  • Hardware: On the device body. For closers, on the arm or body. For locks, on the latch face or lock body.

If you cannot find a label, the component must be treated as non-rated. Do not assume a fire rating based on appearance or door construction alone.

Label Damage and Replacement

Labels must remain legible throughout the life of the assembly. If a label is painted over, removed, or damaged beyond legibility, the component is considered non-rated per NFPA 80 Section 5.2.3.

Label replacement is possible through the original manufacturer or testing laboratory, but requires documentation of the original listing. This process can take weeks. The simpler solution is to protect labels during painting and maintenance. If a label has been painted over, carefully scrape paint away — do not remove the label.

Common Label Mistakes

  • Painting over labels — Renders them illegible, which is the same as having no label per NFPA 80
  • Mixing rated and non-rated components — A 90-minute door in a 60-minute frame does not create a 60-minute assembly. All components must be listed for the same rating.
  • Removing labels during renovation — Once removed, relabeling requires manufacturer involvement
  • Assuming all hollow metal doors are fire-rated — Not all hollow metal doors carry fire ratings. Only labeled doors are rated.

A Note on Fire-Rated Assemblies

Fire-rated door assemblies are available in 20-minute, 45-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 180-minute ratings. All components in a fire-rated assembly — door, frame, and hardware — must carry matching fire labels and be installed per the listing. Verify all component requirements with project specifications and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Configure Your Door Assembly

CDF's ProBuilder tool allows contractors and facility managers to configure complete door, frame, and hardware assemblies online. ProBuilder displays compatible options and provides instant pricing.

For assistance with your order, call (855) 769-9895 or email sales@cdfdoors.com. CDF's sales team is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM CT.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I paint over a fire door label?

No. NFPA 80 requires fire door labels to remain legible. Painting over the label renders it unreadable, which means the door is treated as non-rated during inspection. Mask labels with tape before painting.

What if the fire door label is missing?

A fire-rated door without a legible label is considered non-rated. You can contact the original manufacturer or testing laboratory to request a replacement label, but you will need documentation proving the door's original listing. If documentation is not available, the door must be replaced with a new labeled door.

Do door frames and hardware also need fire labels?

Yes. In a fire-rated assembly, every component — door, frame, hinges, closer, lock, glazing, and seals — must carry a fire label appropriate for the assembly's rating. If any single component is unlabeled or does not match the rating, the entire assembly fails inspection.

About CDF Distributors

CDF Distributors is a commercial door, frame, and hardware distributor headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. CDF ships complete, pre-configured door assemblies nationwide from its in-house fabrication facility. Configure your assembly online at cdfdistributors.com using ProBuilder, or contact CDF at (855) 769-9895 or sales@cdfdoors.com.