Compliant Fire Door Solutions in Multi-Residential Buildings
When planning to build a multi-residential building, competent fire safety strategies are crucial to the safety of those within the building. Within multi-residential buildings, hundreds of lives could depend on the integrity of a buildings fire safety strategy, should a fire break out. Following the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire, there has been a seismic shift in fire door compliance expectations.
What makes a Fire door compliant?
A compliant fire door is far more than just a certified door leaf – it is a complete, tested system made up of independent components, all of which must be correctly specified, installed, and maintained.
This includes a fire-rated door leaf, typically rated FD30 or FD60, fitted within a compatible fire-rated frame. Intumescent seals are essential to expand under heat and seal any gaps, while all ironmongery – including hinges, closers, latches, and locks – must also be fire-rated and approved as part of the system
If vision panels or glazing are included, they must use certified fire-resistant glass with the correct seals and beading. Mandatory signage, such as ‘Fire door – keep shut’, must be clearly displayed where required.
Crucially, the entire assembly must be installed by trained professionals in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Even a fully certified door can become non-compliant – and therefore unsafe – if the wrong components are used or if installation is carried out incorrectly.
How to check if your Fire Doors are compliant:
Certification: Look for certification labels or plugs on the top or side of the door. Without a certification mark, it cannot be certain it is a fire door.
Gaps: Check the gaps surrounding the top and sides of the door are less than 4mm when the door is closed. You can use a £1 coin for scale as these are around 3mm thick.
Seals: Look for any intumescent seals around the edge of the frame, checking for any signs of damage.
Hinges: Check all hinges are secured to the frame with no broken or missing screws.
Closing correctly: Check the door closes firmly onto the latch, a fire door only works when it is closed. Open the door halfway and ensure the closer at the top of the door allows the door to close itself.
What do I do if I believe my fire door may not be compliant?:
If you believe your fire door is faulty or non-compliant, report it immediately to the appropriate person; this may be the building manager. If a non compliant door poses an immediate safety risk, i.e. the door is damaged in a fire or forced open, contact the emergency services.
Architects – How to Specify Dorplan for your projects:
If you are an architect looking to specify Dorplan PuraSound, you can do so via NBS
Talk to the experts:
Whether you’re in the design phase or value-engineering an existing scheme, high-quality fire doors can play a crucial role in protecting lives, ensuring compliance with building regulations, and enhancing overall building safety.
Contact the Dorplan team today to discuss your fire door specification requirements.
