Award Winning Fire Door Inspections in Porstmouth

In accordance with BS9999 Fire door inspections should be completed at least every six months to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

In accordance with The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 - Regulation 10 requires that, if the top storey of the building is above 11 metres in height (typically, a building of more than four storeys) the Responsible Person must:

• use best endeavours to check all flat entrance fire doors at least every 12 months

• carry out checks of any fire doors in communal areas at least every three months

A fire door inspection is a detailed evaluation of fire doors within a building to ensure they are in proper working order and comply with current fire safety regulations. The inspection assesses the condition, functionality, and compliance of each fire door to ensure they can effectively contain the spread of fire and smoke.

Fire door inspections are required for all types of properties, including residential apartment buildings, commercial buildings, offices, hospitals, schools, and any premises where fire safety regulations apply. Essentially, any building that has designated fire doors for compartmentalisation and evacuation purposes should undergo regular inspections.

Fire door inspections provide several benefits, including:

• Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Enhancing the safety of occupants by ensuring fire doors will function correctly in the event of a fire.
• Identifying and addressing any potential issues or defects early.
• Minimising liability and protecting property by maintaining fire containment measures.

• Signs of damage to a fire door include:
• Visible cracks or warping in the door or frame
• Damaged or missing intumescent strips or seals
• Faulty or non-compliant hardware
• Gaps around the door that exceed specified limits
• Difficulty in closing or latching properly

Inspecting a fire door typically takes about 10-15 minutes per door, depending on the condition and complexity of the door system. The total time for an inspection will vary based on the number of doors and the specifics of the property.

Common causes of fire door failure include:

• Poor installation
• Lack of maintenance
• Damaged or missing intumescent strips and seals
• Incorrect door hardware
• Warping or damage to the door or frame
• Propping open fire doors

A fire door inspection report is structured to include:

• Detailed findings for each fire door, including any deficiencies or areas of non-compliance.
• Photographs and descriptions of any issues.
• Recommendations for necessary repairs or replacements.
• The report is compiled into a PDF document and sent via email to the designated point of contact.

Inspectors should be accredited by recognised bodies such as the National Association of Fire Door Inspectors (NAFDI), BlueSky, the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS), BM Trada or similar organisations. This ensures that they have the necessary training, knowledge, and expertise to conduct thorough and accurate fire door inspections.

Fire door inspections in the UK are required under several pieces of legislation, including:

• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: This mandates that the responsible person ensures fire doors are regularly inspected and maintained.
• The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 - The Regulations implement the majority of those recommendations made to government in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report which require a change in the law.
• Building Regulations 2010 (Part B): This outlines the fire safety requirements for building design, including the installation and maintenance of fire doors.
• BS 9999: Code of Practice for Fire Safety in the Design, Management and Use of Buildings: This provides detailed guidance on fire door inspections and maintenance.
• The Housing Act 2004: This includes provisions for fire safety in residential properties, requiring regular inspections and maintenance of fire doors.

All of the above ensure that fire doors are regularly inspected and maintained to remain fit for purpose and effective in protecting building occupants.