Fire doors are a crucial part of any building’s fire safety strategy, designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke, protecting lives and property. They provide essential time for occupants to escape and for emergency services to respond. However, to be effective, fire doors must be properly maintained and regularly inspected to ensure they function correctly in an emergency.
A well-maintained fire door can mean the difference between avoiding a disaster or not. Fire doors are specifically designed to withstand fire for a set duration – typically 30 or 60 minutes – depending on their rating. However, their effectiveness can be significantly reduced if they are damaged, incorrectly installed, or poorly maintained. Common issues include gaps around the door, faulty or missing seals, broken hinges, or a malfunctioning self-closing mechanism. Even small defects can allow smoke and fire to spread, rendering the door not ‘fit for purpose’.
UK fire safety regulations, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, place a legal duty on responsible persons—such as building owners, landlords, and facilities managers—to ensure fire doors are regularly checked and maintained. Failure to comply can result in serious legal consequences, including hefty fines or prosecution.
Fire door inspections should ideally be carried out by a trained professional at least every six months, although high-risk buildings may require more frequent checks. Inspections assess critical aspects such as door alignment, intumescent seals, self-closing mechanisms, signage, and overall structural integrity. Routine checks not only ensure compliance but also enhance the safety of everyone within the building.
In workplaces, schools, hospitals, and residential buildings, fire doors play a vital role in fire compartmentation, preventing fire from spreading rapidly. Regular fire door inspections demonstrate a commitment to safety and legal compliance, ultimately helping to protect lives and property.
Contact Chalbrook Fire to speak to one of our Fire Alarm experts on 0208 763 0377 or email us at fire@chalbrook.com.