Panic bar / exit device won't latch

What this error means

Two causes cover most cases. First, the 'dogging' feature is engaged — a hex-key or key cylinder setting that intentionally holds the latch retracted so the door works push/pull during business hours; if someone dogged it and forgot, the door will never latch. Second, strike misalignment from a sagging door or loose mounting. One serious caveat: if this is a FIRE-RATED door (check the label on the door edge), it must positively latch and must not have mechanical dogging at all — a fire door that can't latch is a code violation, not an inconvenience.

Symptoms

• Door closes but doesn't latch; pushes open freely
• Push bar feels 'held in'
• Rattling, loose hardware

Try this first (safe DIY steps)

1. Check for dogging: look for a small hex socket or key cylinder on the device; un-dog it (turn the hex key/cylinder the opposite way) and test
2. Tighten every mounting screw on the device and strike — vibration loosens them over years
3. Check strike alignment: latch should meet the strike centered; look for wear marks
4. If the door edge has a fire label and the latch won't hold — treat it as urgent

Safety: power off before any physical intervention. Never bypass covers or interlocks — fuser areas run hot enough to burn.

When to call a technician

Worn latch assemblies and door realignment are door-hardware-technician work. On fire doors, get it fixed promptly and professionally — inspectors (and insurers, after an event) check positive latching.