Top fire door and fire safety myths
In the terrible event of a fire breaking out in your home or workplace, we all want to know that the correct precautions and safety measures are in place – and a fire door can often be the last barrier between yourself and the potentially fatal flames and smoke. We probably all think that the doors around us are fit to repel these dangers, but there are a lot of common misconceptions about the safety of fire doors.
Here are a few, unfortunately, popular myths surrounding fire door safety and effectiveness to consider:
1. Painting a door with flame proof paint makes it a fire door
Simply because the door is coated with flame retardant paint does not mean it is not combustible. There are specific, and very precise, requirements for a door to be classified as a fire-proof door. These requirements apply to all materials that are used to construct, and fit, the door, including all the door furniture (hinges, handles, fitting and seals). Each component of the door must be thoroughly tested and certified by the relevant authority in order to comply.
2. If in rented accommodation, it is YOUR responsibility to ensure the fire doors are correct
Not true – every building that contains property available to rent, must comply with stated fire safety regulations issued under a Fire Safety Order. The landlord is the designated ‘responsible person’ under that order – and is, therefore, the person responsible for fire safety of all occupants within that property. Research shows that nearly 60% of flat/apartment tenants in the UK were unaware of that fact!
3. If furniture is light, and easy to move, it’s ok to place in front of a fire door
No matter what the room configuration, space available, or type of furniture, fire doors should NEVER be obstructed in any manner. There should always be a clear and distinct pathway to these escape routes.
4. The gap between the door frame and the door itself doesn’t matter
Even a door constructed and tested to all fire safety standards is rendered ineffective if fitted incorrectly. If the seals attached to the door are less than the recommended measurements, (3mm around the frame, up to 8mm underneath the door), then toxic fumes and smoke can still enter the room and threaten people’s safety. If you can see light under the door – get it checked!
5. You can assume the fire door is fit for purpose if already fitted in place
Every fire door MUST have a current, independently accredited test certificate. This can be found on a label on the top of the door itself. This certification is confirmation that it has passed the approved fire rating, manufacturing and testing compliance. If this is not present, then there is no guarantee that the door is properly functional as a fire door.
6. Any metal lock can be fitted on a fire door as metal doesn’t burn
The lock must be BFW fire door tested, and certified, to a specific level – metal gets extremely hot in a fire and can be compromised by intense heat. An intumescent protection cover fitting can provide a minimum of thirty minutes fire protection to the lock.
Enfield Doors
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