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.

About CDF Distributors

How often should panic hardware be tested?

Test panic hardware monthly. Perform a full depression test, verify latch engagement, and check dogging function (on non-fire-rated devices). NFPA 80 requires annual inspection of exit devices on fire-rated door assemblies. Monthly testing catches developing issues before they become safety concerns.

Can fire-rated exit devices have a dogging function?

Fire-rated exit devices must not have mechanical dogging because fire-rated doors must self-latch at all times. Electric latch retraction (connected to the fire alarm system) is permitted on some fire-rated assemblies, as the latch automatically re-engages when the fire alarm activates.

What causes a panic bar to feel sluggish?

Sluggish touchbar operation is typically caused by worn internal return springs, debris accumulation inside the mechanism, or lack of lubrication at pivot points. Clean the mechanism, lubricate pivot points, and check spring tension. If springs are worn, replacement spring kits are available from the manufacturer.

When should a panic device be replaced vs repaired?

Replace the device when internal mechanisms are worn beyond repair, the touchbar has dead spots that do not respond to internal cleaning, the device cannot reliably latch, or fire labels are damaged or missing on fire-rated devices. Individual components (latch bolts, springs, strikes) can be replaced if the device body and mechanism are otherwise sound.

Where can I source replacement exit devices through CDF?

CDF stocks Von Duprin, Falcon, and Corbin Russwin exit devices. Replacement components and complete devices can be sourced through CDF's sales team. For new installations, ProBuilder configures compatible exit devices based on the door and frame specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

CDF stocks Von Duprin, Falcon, Hager, Corbin Russwin and other exit devices. Replacement components can be sourced through CDF's sales team, and new installations can be configured through ProBuilder based on your door and frame specifications.

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.

Configure Your Door Assembly

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).

A Note on Fire-Rated Assemblies

NFPA 80 requires written documentation of all fire door inspections. Maintain records that include the date of inspection, identification of each assembly inspected (location and opening number), specific items inspected, deficiencies found, and corrective actions taken with dates.

Even for non-fire-rated exit devices, maintaining inspection records supports warranty claims, demonstrates due diligence for liability purposes, and helps track component replacement cycles. A consistent inspection log identifies recurring issues that may indicate systemic problems (incorrect device selection, environmental factors, or abuse patterns).

Annual Inspection Documentation

NFPA 80 requires annual inspection of all fire-rated door assemblies, including the exit device hardware. Fire-rated exit devices carry specific requirements beyond those for non-rated devices. Fire-rated assemblies are available in 20-minute, 45-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 180-minute ratings, and the exit device must be listed for the specific rating level.

• The exit device must be listed and labeled for the fire-rated assembly

• The device must close and positively latch the door from any open position

• Mechanical dogging must not be present on fire-rated exit devices (the door must self-latch when released)

• The device must operate freely without binding or obstruction

• All labels must be intact and legible

Deficiencies must be corrected and documented. Fire-rated exit devices that fail inspection must be repaired or replaced with a listed device before the assembly is returned to service.

NFPA 80 Requirements for Fire-Rated Exit Devices

Exit devices have internal components that wear with use and may need periodic replacement. Identifying worn components early prevents complete device failure.

• Springs: Internal return springs lose tension over time, causing sluggish touchbar return or incomplete latch engagement. Spring kits are available from manufacturers.

• Latch bolts: The latch bolt tip wears from repeated contact with the strike, eventually reducing engagement depth. Replacement latch bolts are available.

• Strike engagement: The strike itself can wear, enlarge, or loosen from the frame. Replace or shim worn strikes.

• Touchbar mechanism: The internal mechanism connecting the touchbar to the latch retraction can wear, causing inconsistent operation or dead spots along the bar length.

• Dogging mechanism: On non-fire-rated devices, the dogging hex key mechanism can strip or wear, preventing the device from being dogged open.

Common Wear Items

Keep panic hardware clean and properly lubricated to ensure reliable operation. Accumulated dirt, debris, and lack of lubrication are the most common causes of sluggish or failed exit device operation.

• Touchbar pivot points: Apply light oil to the pivot points where the touchbar connects to the device body. Wipe excess.

• Latch bolt mechanism: Clean debris from the latch bolt housing with compressed air. Apply a light oil to the latch bolt where it enters the housing.

• Strike plate: Clean accumulated paint, dirt, or debris from the strike opening. The latch bolt must enter the strike freely.

• End cap and center case: Remove end caps if accessible per manufacturer instructions and clean internal mechanisms. Remove any debris that has entered through the device openings.

Use manufacturer-recommended lubricants. Avoid over-lubrication, which attracts dust and debris. Do not use WD-40 or silicone spray as primary lubricants on exit device mechanisms.

Cleaning and Lubrication Points

Panic hardware (exit devices) is life-safety equipment. Regular testing confirms the device will operate correctly in an emergency. Perform the following tests monthly on all exit devices.

Full Depression Test

Depress the touchbar or push pad fully and verify the latch retracts completely. The door should release freely when the touchbar is fully depressed. Test from multiple positions along the touchbar length to verify the mechanism engages regardless of where pressure is applied. This is the primary function of panic hardware and must work reliably.

Dogging Function

If the device has a dogging feature (hex key or cylinder dogging), engage the dogging function and verify the latch remains retracted. Verify the touchbar remains depressed in the dogged position. Release dogging and verify the latch re-engages. Note: Fire-rated exit devices must not have mechanical dogging -- they require electric latch retraction or no dogging capability, as fire-rated doors must be self-latching.

Latch Engagement

Close the door and verify the latch bolt fully extends into the strike. Pull on the door from the exterior to confirm the latch holds. If the latch does not fully engage the strike, check for strike misalignment, worn latch bolt, or insufficient spring tension in the exit device.

Monthly Testing Procedures

Testing, cleaning, and maintenance procedures for commercial panic hardware including monthly testing protocols, common wear items, and NFPA 80 inspection requirements.

This guide answers: How Do You Maintain Commercial Panic Hardware and Exit Devices?