Fire doors are critical in every building’s fire safety strategy, helping to protect occupants by preventing the spread of fire. As legally required, building owners in the UK must undertake quarterly and annual fire door checks.
This guide provides essential information on fire door maintenance and inspection protocol to ensure upkeep is maintained, residents can rest comfortably, and building owners remain compliant and confident the building is safe and hazard free.
You need to:
Understand the Regulations
Before diving into fire door maintenance and inspection, it is essential to familiarise yourself with The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. These regulations specify the need for quarterly and annual checks and outline the building requirements regarding fire safety. Understanding these regulations will help you prioritise and implement appropriate maintenance and inspection practices.
Introduce a Regular Inspection Schedule
Fire doors should undergo regular inspections to identify any potential issues and ensure their proper functioning. Periodic checks should be carried out by a competent person who understands fire door systems. The frequency of inspections may vary depending on factors such as door usage, building type, and occupancy. However, a general guideline is to inspect fire doors at least once every three months.
Conduct Visual Inspections
During a visual inspection, pay attention to the following key aspects:
- Door Leaf: Check for signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or warping. Ensure the door closes securely against the frame without any obstructions. Examine the intumescent seals for any signs of damage or wear.
- Ironmongery: Inspect hinges, handles, locks, and other door hardware. Ensure they are in good working condition, adequately secured, and aligned. Test the self-closing mechanism to confirm it functions correctly.
- Glazing: If the fire door has glazing, check for cracks, gaps, or damage to the glass or surrounding beads. Ensure the glazing meets the required fire resistance standards.
Inspect the Door Frame and Surroundings
Inspect the door frame and its surroundings to ensure they are in good condition. Pay attention to the following:
- Frame: Examine the framing for any damage, such as cracks or warping. Ensure it is securely fixed and tightly sealed to the surrounding structure.
- Gap Measurements: Measure the gaps between the door and the frame. Ensure they fall within the recommended tolerances to maintain fire integrity. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or relevant standards for specific measurements.
Address Maintenance and Fire Door Repair Needs
Any issues identified during the inspection should be promptly addressed. Maintenance and repairs should be carried out by trained professionals or certified contractors experienced in fire door systems. Some common maintenance tasks include:
- Adjusting door closers to ensure proper closing speed and latching.
- Replacing damaged or worn-out seals and gaskets.
- Repairing or replacing damaged hinges, handles, locks, or other ironmongery.
- Repairing any damage to the door leaf or frame, ensuring structural integrity.
Keep Records
Maintain a comprehensive record of all fire door maintenance and inspection activities. This includes inspection dates, findings, repairs conducted, and personnel responsible. Accurate record-keeping demonstrates compliance with regulations and provides a valuable reference for future inspections.
Train Staff
Ensure that the individuals responsible for fire door maintenance and inspection are adequately trained and competent. Cover this when onboarding new staff and consider formal training. Training programs and certifications are available to enhance their understanding of fire door systems, regulations, and best practices.
By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can establish an effective maintenance and inspection program to ensure your fire doors are in proper working condition.
For expert support, contact Windrush Doors and Windows today. We specialise in installing, maintaining and repairing fire safety doors for buildings both large and small.
