London Fire Door Surveys

Our London Fire door surveys are critical for ensuring fire compartmentation within buildings. These fire door inspections are part of a broader fire safety strategy, governed by various fire safety regulations and standards designed to protect occupants and properties from the devastating effects of fire. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of London fire door inspections:

Legal and Regulatory Framework

1. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO):
   • This legislation places a duty on the ‘responsible person’ (usually the building owner or manager) to ensure fire safety in buildings.
   • It mandates regular fire risk assessments and the implementation of fire safety measures, including the maintenance and inspection of fire doors.
2. British Standards (BS 9999:2017):
   • This standard provides guidelines on the design, management, and use of buildings to achieve acceptable levels of fire safety.
   • It includes provisions for the inspection and maintenance of fire doors.
3. Building Regulations 2010:
   • These regulations provide comprehensive guidance on fire safety in building construction and use, including specifications for fire doors for effective compartmentation.

Importance of Fire Door Inspections

Fire doors are essential components in a building’s fire protection system. They are designed to:

• Contain the Spread of Fire and Smoke: By compartmentalising sections of a building, fire doors prevent fire and smoke from spreading, giving occupants more time to evacuate.
• Protect Escape Routes: Ensuring that emergency escape corridors and staircases remain usable during a fire.
• Enhance Structural Integrity: By maintaining the integrity of the building for a longer period during a fire, fire doors help to minimise structural damage.

Inspection Requirements and Procedures

Regular inspections of fire doors are crucial to ensure they perform effectively in the event of a fire. The inspection process typically involves:

1. Frequency:
   • Fire door inspections should be conducted at least every six months. In high-traffic areas, more frequent inspections may be necessary.
2. Checklist for Inspections:
   • Certification: Ensure the fire door is certified and has an appropriate fire rating label.
   • Door and Frame Condition: Check for damage, warping, or gaps between the door and the frame.
   • Seals and Strips: Inspect intumescent strips and cold smoke seals for integrity and correct fitting.
   • Hinges and Closures: Ensure 3 fire rated hinges are firmly attached, and door closers operate smoothly and automatically and fully close the door.
   • Locks and Latches: Verify that locks, latches, and other hardware are in good working condition.
   • Gaps and Clearances: Ensure the gaps around the door are within acceptable limits (typically 3mm along the sides and top, 8mm at the bottom).
   • Signage: Check that fire door signs (e.g., “Fire Door Keep Shut”) are present and legible.
3. Documentation:
   • Detailed records of each inspection should be maintained, noting any defects, actions taken, and dates of inspections.

Training and Competence

Fire door surveys should be carried out by competent individuals who have received appropriate training and are suitably accredited.  Organisations like the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) provide certification and training for inspectors to ensure they are qualified to perform these critical fire safety evaluations.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to conduct regular fire door inspections and maintenance can lead to severe consequences, including:

• Legal Penalties: The responsible person may face legal action, fines, or imprisonment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
• Increased Risk: Poorly maintained fire doors can fail to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, endangering lives and increasing property damage.
• Insurance Issues: Non-compliance with fire safety regulations can lead to issues with insurance claims in the event of a fire.

Conclusion

Fire door inspections are a vital part of fire safety management and should be noted in any fire risk assessment. Adhering to the regulatory requirements and ensuring regular, thorough inspections can save lives and protect properties. Building owners and managers must prioritise fire door maintenance and inspection to comply with the law and enhance overall fire safety.