A Brief Guide to Fire Doors - Everything You Need to Know
We all know fire doors are an important feature of most buildings, but what do they actually do? Find out everything you need to know in this informative guide.
What is a fire door?
Fire doors are a specialist form of doors that are purpose-built to withstand fires for as long as possible, therefore restricting the spread of flames and smoke. Ultimately, they enable buildings to compartmentalise and delay the spread of fire from one area to another - this makes them an integral part of a fire protection system.
In the case of a fire, fire doors really can be the difference between life and death. They have two primary functions:
● When closed, they form a barrier to stop the spread of fire
● When opened, they provide a means of escape
Fire doors keep escape routes, such as corridors, clear from fire, giving occupants of the building longer to escape and better access for the fire service.
How do fire doors work?
Fire doors will be able to prevent the spread of fire for a specified time. These doors are usually thicker than a standard door and most have a solid core of variable material - this build will withstand fire for either 30 minutes or 60 minutes, depending on the fire door rating. Fire doors are fitted with intumescent strips in a groove on every edge of the door or fire door frame.
When a fire breaks out, the heat causes the intumescent strips to expand to fill the gap between the fire door and the frame. This seals the room and stops the spread of fire for a given time. It is important to remember that a fire door will only work if it is closed when the fire breaks out, so you should always ensure that your fire door is fitted with an automatic door closer and a sign that identifies the door as a fire door.
Are fire doors a legal requirement?
Fire doors are a legal requirement in all non-domestic properties, such as businesses, commercial premises, and public buildings. They are also required in residential flats and houses of multiple occupancy. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 states that building operators in England and Wales should appoint a ‘Responsible Person’ to manage their fire safety precautions - this role entails a duty to reduce the risk of fire spreading within the premises.
At Thoroughbred Industrial Doors, we offer a range of fire doors to keep your premises safe. Available in a range of materials from timber to aluminium and steel, we’ll produce custom-made fire resistant doors so that the tight fit maximises your fire resistance. We’re dedicated to providing our customers with commercial doors of the highest quality - from electric garage doors to security shutters, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today for more information.
