Fire doors are an integral part of a building’s passive fire protection system, designed to prevent the spread of smoke, flames, and toxic gases, ensuring the safety of occupants and providing vital time for evacuation and firefighting efforts ¹⁴⁶⁷. Recognised as a legal requirement in various UK buildings, including high-rise and commercial properties as well as high-risk areas like hospitals and care homes, fire door inspections become a critical activity for maintaining the integrity of these life-saving components ². The importance of documenting fire door inspections alongside other fire safety activities, such as call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, alarm testing, and general fire safety audits, cannot be overstated, ensuring that all aspects of a building’s fire safety measures are comprehensively managed ⁵.

This article not only focuses on understanding fire door regulations but also guides through preparing for and conducting fire door inspections. With an emphasis on addressing common issues and achieving compliance, the inclusion of practices such as emergency lighting and fire risk assessment highlights the broader context of fire safety management. Together, these elements underscore the essential nature of fire door inspections in the overall strategy to protect lives and property from the ravages of fire ³⁵.

Understanding Fire Door Regulations

Key Regulations and Requirements

1. Introduction of Fire Safety Regulations: The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which incorporated recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report, were enacted on January 23, 2023 ¹.
2. Scope and Applicability: These regulations mandate that fire doors are essential in buildings with two or more domestic premises and common parts, encompassing flat entrance doors in all blocks of flats, whether purpose-built or converted ¹.
3. Responsibilities of the ‘Responsible Person’: The designated Responsible Person is required to provide information about flat entrance doors to all residents and ensure routine checks of fire doors in blocks of flats where the top storey exceeds 11 meters above ground level ¹.

Legal Requirements Across Various Building Types

• Mandatory Fire Doors: Fire doors are legally required in all non-domestic properties, which include businesses, commercial premises, public buildings, blocks of flats, and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) ¹.
• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: This regulation demands appropriate fire precautions to ensure safe evacuation routes in the common parts of buildings ¹.

Installation and Maintenance Standards

1. Installation by Competent Persons: Fire doors must be installed by individuals who possess the necessary knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience ¹.
2. Maintenance and Inspection Protocols: Regular inspections, maintenance, and necessary repairs are crucial to keep fire doors in good working order. In the UK, fire doors should be inspected every six months, while in the US and other countries, annual inspections are mandated under the NFPA 80 Standard ¹⁸.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Compliance with British and International Standards: Fire doors must adhere to British Standard BS 476-22:1987, specifying the duration a door can withstand fire. Additionally, all hardware like locks, latches, and hinges must be CE marked and compatible with the door leaf’s certification ¹⁴.
• Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with regulations can result in legal action, fines, or even closure of business premises ¹².

Importance of Regular Checks and Documentation

• Quarterly and Annual Checks: New regulations require quarterly checks of all fire doors in multi-occupied residential buildings over 11m in height in England. This is alongside the broader requirement for regular documentation of fire door inspections, which is crucial for ensuring ongoing compliance and safety ¹¹³.
• Recording Safety Measures: It is vital to record not only fire door inspections but also other safety measures like call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, and general fire safety audits to maintain comprehensive safety documentation ¹.

By adhering to these regulations and ensuring proper installation and maintenance, buildings can significantly enhance their safety protocols, protecting occupants and property from fire hazards.

Preparing for a Fire Door Inspection

Certification and Label Verification

1. Check for Certification: Ensure the fire door has a label or marking that confirms certification. This label is typically found on the head or jambs of the door leaf ³¹².
2. Ironmongery and Components: Verify that all fitted ironmongery, glazing apertures, and intumescent seals are compatible with the door, ensuring they match the certification requirements ³.

Physical Inspection of the Door

1. Aperture and Damage Check: Inspect all glazing panels and air transfer grilles to ensure they are correctly fitted and free from damage ¹⁴.
2. Gap and Seal Examination: Use a gap tester to check that the gaps between the door and the frame measure between three to four millimeters. Also, inspect the fire seals to ensure they are properly installed and undamaged ¹⁴.
3. Door Operation: Confirm that the door closes reliably and completely on its own after every opening cycle ¹⁴.
4. Door Closer Functionality: Check that the door closer is functioning correctly and that it bears a CE mark, usually found under the door closer cover ¹⁴.

Mechanical Components and Installation

1. Hinges and Screws: Ensure that each fire door has a minimum of three hinges, and that all screws are firmly fixed ³.
2. Door Frame and Closing Mechanism: Verify that the door frame is firmly attached to the wall, free from damage, and that any self-closing device fully closes the door into the frame without sticking or jamming ³.
3. Latch and Handle: If a latch is fitted, ensure it holds the door securely without rattling and that both the latch and handle operate smoothly ³.

Regular Maintenance and Compliance

1. Hold Open Devices: For doors with hold-open devices, conduct weekly tests to ensure they are in good working order and release the door to close when the fire alarm is triggered ³.
2. General Condition and Maintenance: Regularly check all parts of the fire door for any signs of damage, ensuring that glass is intact and the door is not wedged open ³.
3. Fire Door Inspection Frequency: Conduct inspections every six months, or every three months in buildings with high traffic to ensure ongoing compliance and functionality ³⁸.

Documentation and Compliance

1. Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all fire door inspections, which is crucial for compliance and safety. This includes documentation of call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, alarm testing, and general fire safety audits ⁵.
2. Employing Experts: Consider hiring a registered FDIS inspector for thorough inspections and to advise on fire risk assessments ⁸.
3. Training and Awareness: Building owners or managers should be trained to identify all fire doors in the building and ensure they meet the required FD rating and standards ²¹¹.

By adhering to these guidelines and conducting thorough inspections, buildings can maintain high standards of safety, ensuring that fire doors function correctly and effectively in the event of a fire.

Conducting the Inspection

Initial Verification

1. Certification Check: Begin by verifying that the fire door has proper certification labels visible on the door frame or leaf ¹⁴.
2. Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection to check for any visible signs of damage or wear on the door, frame, and hardware ².

Detailed Component Checks

1. Glazing and Air Transfer Grilles: Examine all glazing panels and air transfer grilles for correct fitting and to ensure they are free from damage ³.
2. Gaps Measurement: Use a gap tester to measure the gaps between the door and frame, ensuring they are consistently three to four millimeters ¹⁴.
3. Seal Integrity: Inspect the intumescent seals around the door to confirm they are intact, properly attached, and undamaged ⁸.
4. Hinge Inspection: Each fire door should have a minimum of three hinges, firmly fixed with all screws in place ⁸.

Functional Testing

1. Door Closure Test: Ensure the door closes smoothly and completely on its own from any angle of opening, confirming the functionality of the door closer ¹⁴.
2. Latch and Lock Testing: Check that the latch secures the door without rattling and that the door fits snugly in the frame when closed ⁸.
3. Hold Open Devices: Test hold-open devices weekly to verify they release the door to close upon activation of the fire alarm ⁸.

Compliance and Maintenance

1. Regular Maintenance Checks: Maintain a schedule for regular checks and document each inspection. This includes call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, alarm testing, and general fire safety audits ⁵.
2. Professional Assessment: Consider employing certified specialists for detailed inspections to ensure compliance and functionality ¹⁷.
3. Documentation of Findings: Keep detailed records of all inspections, noting any issues found and actions taken, to ensure ongoing compliance and safety ².

Ensuring Ongoing Compliance

1. Quarterly and Bi-Annual Checks: Fire doors in communal areas should be inspected quarterly, and those in less trafficked areas every six months ².
2. Update and Review: Regularly update and review the inspection checklist to cover all critical aspects such as signage, hinges, seals, and the door’s overall condition ³.

By adhering to these steps, you can ensure that fire doors are maintained in optimal condition, contributing significantly to the safety and compliance of the building.

Addressing Common Issues and Compliance Challenges

Installation and Maintenance Challenges

1. Incorrect Installation: Proper installation is pivotal for the functionality of fire doors. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and adhere to local building codes to ensure correct alignment and hardware installation. Regular inspections help in identifying any deviations from these standards ⁹.
2. Missing or Damaged Components: To maintain the integrity of fire doors, routine inspections are crucial. These inspections help in spotting any missing or damaged components like door closers, hinges, and intumescent seals, which should be promptly replaced with suitable alternatives from the same manufacturer ⁹.

Obstructions and Neglect

1. Blocked or Obstructed Doorways: It’s vital to educate building occupants on the importance of keeping fire door pathways clear. Regular checks are necessary to ensure that fire doors are unobstructed and can close freely and latch securely ⁹.
2. Poor Maintenance and Neglect: A comprehensive maintenance program that includes regular inspections, repairs, and replacements is essential. Building owners should prioritize fire door maintenance to ensure compliance with safety codes ⁹.

Hardware and Structural Integrity

1. Hinges and Fixings: The quality and fitting of hinges significantly affect the lifespan of fire doors. Ensuring that hinges are of suitable quality and correctly fixed is crucial, as the failure of hinges can compromise the entire door assembly ¹¹.
2. Fire Door Installation Concerns: The effectiveness of a fire door also depends on how well it is fixed to the wall and the fire resistance of the surrounding wall structure. Attention to these details during installation can prevent future compliance issues ¹¹.

Documentation and Compliance

1. Routine Inspections and Documentation: Regular inspections are vital for ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations and for reducing liability risks. Maintaining detailed records of these inspections, including fire door status, is crucial ¹³.
2. Certified Inspections: Fire door inspections, maintenance, and replacements should always be carried out by certified experts. This ensures that all aspects of the fire door assembly are up to code and functionally reliable ¹³.

Addressing Installation and Maintenance Errors

1. Post-Installation Issues: Sometimes, installation issues may not surface until after the final payments have been made, making it challenging to address these without additional costs. Regular post-installation checks can help identify and rectify such issues promptly ¹¹.
2. Compliance with Hardware Specifications: When replacing any hardware on a fire door, it is necessary to use products that match the original specifications. This ensures that the fire door continues to meet all required safety standards ⁵.

Ensuring Continuous Compliance

1. Regular Maintenance Checks: Setting a schedule for routine maintenance and inspections helps in identifying needs for repairs or replacements, safeguarding the wellbeing of occupants and protecting the building’s assets ¹³.
2. Professional Assessments: Employing professionals for detailed inspections can help in maintaining the functionality and compliance of fire doors, demonstrating a commitment to safety ¹⁷.

Importance of Comprehensive Safety Documentation

Maintaining comprehensive safety documentation is imperative. This includes recording not only fire door inspections but also call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, alarm testing, and general fire safety audits. Such records are essential for demonstrating compliance with safety regulations and for ensuring the overall safety of the building ⁵.

Conclusion

Through the lens of fire safety, the essential guide to fire door inspections highlights the critical nature of adherence to regulations, proper installation, and regular maintenance. By encapsulating the key aspects of fire door compliance—a pivotal component of a building’s passive fire protection arsenal—this article underscores the necessity of routine inspections and the maintenance of documentation related to fire door checks, call point testing, emergency lighting tests, fire drills, evacuations, alarm testing, and general fire safety audits. These practices not only ensure the integrity of fire doors but also safeguard the lives of occupants and protect property against the devastating impact of fires.

In wrapping up, it’s clear that the onus of ensuring fire safety compliance rests heavily on diligent inspections and the rigorous documentation of all safety measures. The broader implications of such meticulous oversight extend beyond mere regulatory adherence, serving as a cornerstone for building safety and occupant well-being. For those who recognize the importance of bolstering their fire safety measures, remember that expert guidance is just a conversation away; do not hesitate to get in touch to speak to a fire expert. Engaging with professionals and adhering to recommended inspection schedules can significantly diminish risks, marking a proactive step towards comprehensive fire safety management and peace of mind.

FAQs

1. What should be checked during a fire door inspection?
During a fire door inspection, it is crucial to measure the clearances between the door and its frame at the top and sides, ensuring they are less than 4mm. The gap at the bottom of the door should be less than 8mm. Additionally, verify the fire door’s certification by locating a plug or label on the top or side of the door that confirms its fire-rated door certification.

2. What are the regulatory inspection requirements for fire doors?
Regulations require that all flat entrance fire doors be inspected at least every 12 months. Fire doors located in communal areas must be inspected at least every three months to ensure they meet safety standards.

3. What are the essential characteristics of fire doors?
Fire doors are typically thicker than standard doors and are constructed with a solid core made from various materials to provide fire resistance. Depending on their rating, these doors can withstand fire for either 30 minutes (FD30) or 60 minutes (FD60). Fire doors are equipped with intumescent strips along every edge of the door or the door frame to help prevent the spread of fire.

4. What are the important features to consider in fire doors?
When considering fire doors, key features include the FD rating which indicates the duration of fire resistance (e.g., FD30 for 30 minutes and FD60 for 60 minutes). Fire doors must also be equipped with fire-resistant hinges, an automatic door closer, and intumescent seals that may also include smoke seals. Additionally, the handles on fire doors should be compatible with the fire door’s design and functionality.

References

[1] – https://goaudits.com/blog/fire-door-inspections/
[2] – https://clmfireproofing.com/inspecting-fire-doors-what-you-need-to-know/
[3] – https://www.cityfire.co.uk/news/fire-door-inspection-what-you-need-to-check/
[4] – https://ark-fp.co.uk/fire-door-guide-requirements-and-regulations/
[5] – https://www.merton.gov.uk/system/files?file=fire_doors_-_basic_guidance_checklist-_june_2013.pdf
[6] – https://firedoors.bwf.org.uk/knowledge-centre/fire-door-inspection-maintenance/
[7] – https://www.thefpa.co.uk/risk-assessment/fire-door-inspections
[8] – https://www.fireco.uk/how-to-check-your-fire-doors/
[9] – https://info.lifesafetyservices.com/understanding-fire-door-code-compliance-common-issues-and-solutions
[10] – https://secure-house.co.uk/when-fire-doors-fail-common-issues-and-solutions/
[11] – https://www.firedoorscomplete.com/news/fire-doors-the-route-to-compliance-part-one
[12] – https://www.firesealsdirect.co.uk/advice-centre/guidance-on-fire-door-maintenance-and-inspection/
[13] – https://www.rwjoinery.co.uk/news/fire-door-inspection-checklist
[14] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blkRd_PR2Qw
[15] – https://www.safelincs.co.uk/free-fire-door-inspection-checklist/
[16] – https://humanfocus.co.uk/blog/a-fast-and-easy-fire-door-inspection-checklist/
[17] – https://www.grjsurveying.com/blog/your-full-guide-to-fire-door-surveys/
[18] – https://dorsetfireprotection.co.uk/what-do-i-need-to-check-on-a-fire-door/