Keep it Shut – importance of fire doors

Despite the importance of fire doors, breaches are still common, resulting in fines under the Fire Safety Order. These breaches include:

• Doors being wedged open
• Missing or damaged doors
• Non-fire doors being wrongly installed

As part of Fire Door Safety Week 2024, we urge building managers, landlords, tenants, and all building users to check their fire doors' operation and condition. If you have any concerns about the fire doors or notice any that are damaged, report it to your landlord or building manager without delay. Remember, fire doors must remain shut to be effective and save lives.

Dom Purchon, HFRS Head of Protection, emphasises the importance of fire doors, "A fire door is not always a fire exit door and is typically identified by a blue 'FIRE DOOR KEEP SHUT' sign, often at eye level. Fire doors help compartmentalise a building, such as an office or a block of flats, containing fire and smoke in one area. This gives occupants time to safely evacuate and allows our firefighters to tackle a fire more effectively."

Fire Door Safety Week provides a simple 5-Step Fire Door Check that anyone can perform:

1. Check for Certification: Look for a label or plug indicating it's a certified fire door.
2. Check the Gaps: Ensure the gaps around the top and sides of the door are consistently less than 4mm when closed.
3. Check the Seals: Examine the intumescent seals around the door or frame for any damage or signs of wear.
4. Check the Hinges: Verify that the hinges are firmly fixed, with no missing or broken screws (ideally three or more hinges).
5. Check the Door Closes Properly: Open the door halfway and let it close by itself. It should firmly latch without sticking on the floor or frame.

By following these steps and addressing any issues promptly, you can help ensure fire doors are effective and lives are protected.