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FIRE DOORS IN THE UK
In the UK, 3 million fire doors are installed annually, but approximately 75% fail inspections, risking lives and property. Each door undergoes furnace testing before market release. A minor installation error can have dire consequences, as fire doors are crucial for safety, they must be installed accurately to effectively save lives. Fire doors must be checked regularly to ensure safety, compliance and effective protection against fire spread in buildings.
CHANGES IN FIRE DOOR SAFETY
The Hackitt Review was commissioned after the Grenfell Tower fire, this led to significant changes in fire safety regulations, particularly for high rise residential blocks. It increased awareness and requirements for fire door installers’ competency, alongside new laws like the Fire Safety Act and Building Safety Act, impacting the industry nationwide.
LAWS THE REGULATORY REFORM (FIRE SAFETY ORDER 2005)
In England and Wales, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates fire safety measures for all non-domestic buildings, including communal areas of flats. The ‘responsible person,’ typically the building controller, must conduct fire risk assessments, maintain fire management plans, regular fire door checks and ensure suitable equipment maintenance. Failure to comply can result in fines or imprisonment.
ARTCLE 17 & 18 OF THE FIRE SAFETY ORDER
Article 17 of the Fire Safety Order mandates a maintenance regime to ensure equipment, including fire doors, is efficient. Article 18 requires the appointment of competent persons to assist in preventative and protective measures, defined as individuals with adequate training, qualifications, and experience.
WHO IS THE RESPONSIBLE PERSON?
The “Responsible Person” is legally obligated to control fire risks in a building, conducting a fire risk assessment that includes fire door ratings, fire door checks and locations to mitigate fire hazards.
Responsible persons can appoint a relevant trained person(s) to check the following:
If there have been any modifications or harm to the glazing apertures or air transfer grille of a door.
Ensure that hinges are devoid of any damage and do not exhibit excessive oil leakage.
Confirm that the door fully closes against the rebate stop and latches securely if needed, maintaining this capability from any angle.
Ensure that the seals are intact and unharmed.
Ensure that the spacing between the door leaf and the frame is between 2-4mm.
There is no visible damage, whether from deliberate actions or wear and tear, to the door or the door closer.
If any issues are identified from these checks, it might be appropriate to undertake remediation work.
