The Importance Of Fire Door Replacement
Many buildings are subject to the legal, mandatory installation and presence of fire doors – and those responsible for the buildings’ fire safety need to be aware that regular inspection of the doors is required to ensure that they are always ‘fit for purpose’! Fire doors are essential in delaying the spread of smoke, heat, and flame, and in creating time for a safe evacuation of the building in the event of a fire emergency. These doors must always be in full working condition and must be maintained to the highest standard – there will, however, be times when these important safety features may need to be replaced. Here are some aspects of fire door maintenance to consider:
Fire Door Lifespan
All fire doors are susceptible to wear and tear over time – and that can vary greatly depending upon the environment in which they are set! Many factors can play a part in the lifespan of a fire door – damage from misuse or force, exposure to actual fire damage, the amount of general use, and just natural deterioration. Although fire doors are constructed from stronger, more durable, and more hardy materials than standard doors, the very nature of their function, and the environments in which they are typically installed, means they will be exposed to more destructive elements and heavier usage than other doors.
Regular Inspections
Thorough fire door inspections should be conducted regularly to help highlight any defaults early or as they occur – these inspections will help identify potential problems such as the door not closing firmly or fully, or exposing any gaps that may have occurred around the door when closed or finding damage to any of the door parts including the hardware. Adopting a pro-active approach to fire door maintenance can mitigate the frequency of replacing fire doors with early discovery of damage or faults, perhaps allowing repair of the fire door as opposed to the greater expense of replacement! Regular inspections also demonstrate the essential due diligence on the part of building owners with regards to the responsible legislation to fire safety compliance.
Inspecting A Fire Rated Door
There are many aspects to consider when inspecting a fire door for performance including the following:
Fire Door Frame
Check to ensure it is square and there are no gaps around the outside.
Fire Door Seals
Any of the intumescent seals that are incorrectly fitted or damaged MUST be replaced. Ill-fitting seals may also be a result of other door defects, so treat this as warning sign that the door may need replacing.
Glazed Panels
Any cracks in the glazed panels of a fire door will mean immediate replacement – and ensure that the beading holding the glass in place is also fit for purpose for fire door standards.
Hold-open Devices
These devices on fire doors should be electro-magnetic and connected to the installed fire alarm system so they release in the event of a fire break-out – ensure these devices are working correctly and release when the power is off.
Door Hardware
All door hardware must be secure and lubricated with no signs of wear and tear.
Safety Signage
Ensure that all compliant fire signs are fitted, in good condition and clearly visible.
Repair Versus Replace
Wherever possible, it is preferable to repair a fire door than fully replace it, which will prove to be a more expensive and disruptive option. Where total fire door replacement is necessary it is important to remember that it is a task for a skilled fire door professional – not a keen ‘handyman’! The replacement work should be performed by an appropriately trained and recognised fire door maintenance expert – this will ensure a professional job and help minimise both the disruption and the cost!
Enfield Doors
If you would like more information about fire door replacement, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
