Fire Door Inspections
Fire door inspections are a critical process to ensure that fire doors—specialized doors designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke in a building—function properly and comply with safety regulations. These inspections are typically conducted by trained professionals at Calibre Commercial Inspections to verify that the doors meet fire safety standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association in NFPA 80.
Here’s a breakdown of what fire door inspections generally involve:
1. Purpose of Fire Doors
Fire doors are part of a building’s passive fire protection system. They are designed to compartmentalize a building, slowing the spread of fire and smoke, and providing safe evacuation routes or protected areas.
Inspections ensure they can perform this role effectively during an emergency.
2. Key Components Checked
During an inspection, the following elements of a fire door assembly are typically evaluated:
Door Leaf: The door itself must be intact, with no holes, warps, or damage that could compromise its fire rating (e.g., 20-minute, 60-minute, or 90-minute resistance).
Frame: The frame must be securely mounted and free of damage or distortion.
Hinges: Hinges must be in good condition, with no missing screws, and must allow the door to operate smoothly.
Seals: Intumescent seals (which expand when heated) and smoke seals must be present, undamaged, and properly fitted.
Closing Mechanism: Self-closing devices (like door closers) must work correctly, ensuring the door fully closes and latches without obstruction.
Latching Hardware: Latches must engage properly to secure the door in the frame.
Gaps: Clearances around the door (between the door and frame) must meet specified limits—typically no more than 1/8 inch (3 mm) at the sides and top, and 3/4 inch (19 mm) at the bottom.
Signage: Required fire door labels or ratings must be visible and legible.
Glazing/Vision Panels: If present, glass must be fire-rated and intact, with no cracks or improper replacements.
Ancillary Items: Items like locks, panic hardware, or electromagnetic hold-open devices must comply with fire door standards.
3. Inspection Process
Visual Inspection: The inspector examines all visible components for wear, damage, or modifications (e.g., painting over seals or adding non-compliant hardware).
Operational Test: The door is opened and closed to test the self-closing mechanism, latching, and alignment.
Documentation Review: The inspector may verify the door’s fire rating against building plans or maintenance records.
Compliance Check: The door is assessed against applicable codes or standards (e.g., NFPA 80, International Building Code, or local regulations).
4. Frequency
NFPA 80 recommends that fire doors be inspected annually at a minimum, though high-traffic areas or specific jurisdictions may require more frequent checks.
Inspections are also required after installation, repairs, or alterations to ensure ongoing compliance.
5. Common Issues Found
Doors propped open or blocked, preventing closure.
Damaged or missing seals.
Non-compliant hardware (e.g., residential-grade hinges on a commercial fire door).
Excessive gaps or misaligned frames.
Malfunctioning closers that don’t fully shut the door.
6. Reporting and Follow-Up
After inspection, a detailed report is typically provided, noting any deficiencies.
Records of inspections must often be kept for a specified period (e.g., 3 years under NFPA 80) for regulatory audits. Check with your municipality to find out their requirements.
Why It Matters
Properly functioning fire doors can save lives and property by containing a fire long enough for occupants to evacuate and firefighters to respond. Neglecting inspections can lead to failed performance during a fire, regulatory fines, or invalidated insurance coverage.