Fire doors play a critical role in passive fire protection within buildings. They compartmentalize spaces, slowing down the spread of fire and smoke, allowing occupants more time to evacuate safely. However, for fire doors to perform effectively, regular inspection and maintenance are essential.

Why Inspect Fire Doors?

• Its the law!

Well maintained fire doors mean;

• Creates a safe passage for occupiers of the building to escape in an emergency
• Allows emergency services safe access in an emergency
• Protects and limits the damage and loss to assets. 

Identification of Defects

  - Everyday use can lead to slight alterations in fire doors or their surroundings, affecting their performance during a fire.

  - Regular inspections by competent personnel help identify defects that need addressing through maintenance.

Who Can Inspect Fire Doors?

- A competent person should carry out inspections on fire doors.

- Fire door inspectors should be approved and qualified to assess doorsets competently.

RWB Fire door solutions is accredited by BM Trada and can undertake fire door surveys under the maintenance accreditation. 

We only use competent operatives to undertake fire door surveying and maintenance, our operatives are;

• Qualified time served joiners (NVQ level 2 & 3)
• Undertake a significant amount of fire door training, including toolbox talks
• Familiar and understand the Approved Repair Techniques to maintain fire doors issued by Bm Trada
• Hold FDdip qualifications from FDIS
• Hold Part 1 Fire Door Installers qualifications from the Fire Door Academy (Fire Qual)

What Does an Inspection Cover?

A comprehensive visual inspection should include:

1.  Door Hardware:

  - Review of hinges, locks, latches, vision panels, glazing, cold smoke seals, intumescent seals, signage, and hold-open devices.

  - Assessment of the operation of hinges and hardware.

2.  Fire-Resisting Qualities

  - Thickness and gaps between the leaf and door frame.

  - Relevant markings indicating the fire rating of the doorset.

3. Self-Closing Devices:

  - Ensuring they are working correctly.

4. Overall Condition:

  - Any damage that may prevent the door from performing during a fire.

Qualifications Matter

- Inspectors should hold recognised qualifications such as those held by the RWB Fire Door Solution operatives. 

- Section 3.3.96 of NFPA 80 defines a qualified person as someone with knowledge, training, experience, and demonstrated ability in dealing with fire door matters.

Remember that regular inspections are crucial for maintaining fire door integrity. By ensuring compliance and addressing defects promptly, we contribute to building safety and protect lives.