Fire Door Maintenance

Fire Door Maintenance: Keeping You Safe

Fire doors are a crucial part of your building’s fire safety system. They are designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants precious time to evacuate. However, just like any other piece of equipment, fire doors need regular maintenance to function properly.

Why is Fire Door Maintenance Important?

Regular maintenance ensures your fire doors will perform as intended in a fire. Even minor issues can compromise a fire door’s effectiveness. Here’s why maintenance is important:

• Early detection of problems: Regular checks can identify minor issues before they become major problems that require replacement.
• Ensures proper functionality: Maintenance verifies that the door closes properly, self-closes if required, and the seals are intact.
• Compliance with regulations: Regular inspections are required by regulations to ensure fire safety.

How Often Should Fire Doors Be Maintained?

The recommended frequency for fire door maintenance depends on several factors:

• Regulations: In England, for example, the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 require:
  • Monthly visual checks by the responsible person
  • Formal inspections by a competent person every 6 months for most doors
  • More frequent checks (every 3 months) for communal areas in high-rise buildings
• Usage: High-traffic fire doors require more frequent checks (weekly or monthly) due to increased wear and tear.

What Does Fire Door Maintenance Involve?

A typical fire door maintenance check includes:

• Visual inspection: Checking for physical damage, gaps around the frame, and proper alignment of the door.
• Hardware inspection: Ensuring self-closing mechanisms, hinges, locks, and handles are functioning correctly.
• Intumescent strip inspection: Verifying that these heat-activated seals are intact and not damaged.
• Clearance check: Confirming the doorway remains free from obstructions and can fully close.

Who Should Perform Fire Door Maintenance?

The responsible person for the building (usually the building owner or manager) is accountable for fire safety. This includes ensuring fire doors are maintained properly.

For the formal inspections required by regulations, it’s recommended to use a qualified fire door technician. They have the expertise to identify potential issues and ensure your fire doors meet all safety standards.

Additional Tips for Fire Door Maintenance

• Keep fire doors closed whenever possible. Don’t wedge them open.
• Never paint shut fire doors or remove signage.
• Report any fire door issues to the responsible person immediately.

By following these fire door maintenance guidelines, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and others in the building. For further information, consult the resources from the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Fire Door Alliance.