On numerous occasions I’ve gotten the call – a painter/cleaner/mischievous kid peeled the UL label off of the panic hardware or fire exit hardware. Unfortunately, the hardware would have to be re-labeled in the field by a representative of a listing lab – often an expensive proposition.
I knew that a change was coming…I just wasn’t sure when. Then Hal Kelton of DoorData Solutions sent me a photo of the new laser etching on Von Duprin fire exit hardware. For both panic hardware and fire exit hardware, the UL mark is now etched onto the center case cover, as well as the exact date and time the product was manufactured. A QR code will provide access to online information including installation instructions.
Hopefully this will put an end to the missing-label problem, as well as making product information more readily available. It makes me really happy to see simple solutions implemented that will result in reduced headaches.
What other hardware pain points make you crazy? I can’t make any promises, but I’d love to help if I can.
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The etched QR is a fantastic idea.
Wow, the etched date is 12/17/18 at 16:24:43, yesterday, not yet one day old. A veritable newborn.
They should have done that a long time ago. I’m happy to see that being implemented. Maybe this could eventually apply as a standard for all hardware even hollow metal frames and doors.
That is a class addition.
At last, a manufacturer proud enough to place their name on the product and to let the poor maint man know which make and model of hardware he is facing.
Wish others would do that, regardless of the cost.
Help us in the field know what we’re up against…
Thanks Vincent!
– Lori
What about when they lose the cover?
They always lose something.
Would they send out an etched cover?
Hi Jim –
I don’t believe the covers can be shipped as parts – just like the ones with the adhesive labels could not be ordered separately. So they need to try not to lose them!!
– Lori
Jim/Lori–
The covers won’t have the label (or be etched). I’m literally 2 days removed from this exact conversation with one of the technical guys about this. We have several 9927’s for 8’0″ doors that we thought we could convert to 99 rims by swapping covers & buying latches, but the covers won’t be labeled, and we’d run the risk of having the device rejected.
At the end of the day it’s up to the AHJ to even notice if it’s a fire rated device or not . So many look to see the UL label and simply move on to the next . But overall this is a long time coming. Welcome relief