A fire door is a life-saving device, but it’s only as effective as its condition. For property managers and building owners, knowing what to look for is the first step in maintaining fire safety compliance. A professional inspection is always recommended, but a simple, routine check can help you spot the most common fire door defects and take action before they become a serious risk.
By performing a basic check, you can quickly identify potential problems. Here are five key areas to inspect:
The gap between the door and its frame should be consistent and no wider than 3mm. A simple test with a £1 coin (which is approx. 3mm thick) can help. You should not be able to slide the coin through the gap. If the gap is too large, it can allow fire and smoke to pass through.
Inspect the intumescent seals and smoke seals around the door frame. These are often integrated into the frame or door edge. The seals should be undamaged and sit firmly in their grooves. If you spot any peeling, tearing, or damage, the seal will not work as intended during a fire.
Check that the hinges are firmly screwed into the door and the frame. All hinges should be present, and none should be loose, broken, or missing screws. If the hinges are not secure, the door may not close correctly, or it could even fall off in a fire.
The door closer is a critical piece of hardware that ensures the door shuts on its own. It’s a legal requirement for most fire doors. To check it, open the door partway and let it go. It should close firmly and completely, without slamming. A door that doesn’t close fully provides a pathway for smoke and fire.
Look for any signs of damage on the door itself. Holes, cracks, or unauthorized modifications can compromise its fire resistance. You should also check the door glazing (if applicable) for damage and ensure it has the correct fire-rated markings. Never assume a damaged door is still safe.
Knowing the difference between a minor issue you can address and a serious defect that requires a professional is crucial.
Spotting and fixing these defects is key to meeting your legal obligations. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Fire Safety Act 2021, and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 all place a clear legal duty on you to ensure your fire doors are maintained and in good working order. Additionally, the BS 8214:2016 British Standard provides best practice guidance, which an auditor or inspector will use to assess your compliance.
A proactive approach to maintaining fire doors not only protects lives but also reduces your liability and ensures you are adhering to these critical regulations
While a quick check can help you spot obvious problems, only a professional fire door inspection can provide a comprehensive and fully compliant assessment.
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