What Is a Fire Door Inspection?
A fire door inspection is a comprehensive assessment of each fire door to verify its condition, functionality, and compliance with current fire safety standards. This includes checking the door leaf, frame, seals, hinges, latches, glazing, signage, and self-closing devices. Regular inspections ensure that fire doors will perform as intended in the event of a fire, preventing the spread of smoke and flames.
Who Can Carry Out Fire Door Inspections?
Under Article 18 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire door inspections must be conducted by a “competent person.” This refers to an individual with the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and training to perform the task effectively. Typically, this means someone who has received specialized training and holds a recognized certification, such as from the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS).
Our inspectors are Level 3 Awarded Fire Door Inspectors, certified by recognized bodies like FDIS, BM TRADA, or FIRAS. They possess the expertise and accreditation required to ensure your fire doors meet all legal and safety standards.
Why Are Fire Door Inspections Important?
Fire door inspections are not only a legal requirement but also a crucial aspect of building safety. Regular inspections help to:
• Ensure Compliance: Meet the obligations set out in the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which mandate quarterly checks of communal fire doors in buildings over 11 meters and annual checks of flat entrance doors.
• Protect Lives and Property: Properly functioning fire doors can prevent the spread of fire and smoke, providing vital time for occupants to evacuate safely.
• Reduce Insurance Premiums: Demonstrating compliance with fire safety regulations can lead to lower insurance costs for your building.
• Maintain Property Value: Regular maintenance and compliance with safety standards help preserve the value and integrity of your property.
Consequences of Neglecting Fire Door Inspections
Failing to conduct regular fire door inspections can have serious repercussions:
• Legal Penalties: Non-compliance with fire safety regulations can result in fines, legal action, or even imprisonment.
• Increased Liability: In the event of a fire, inadequate fire door maintenance can lead to loss of life and significant property damage, for which the responsible person may be held accountable.
• Insurance Issues: Non-compliance can affect insurance claims and may lead to increased premiums or denial of coverage.
How Often Should Fire Doors Be Inspected??
Inspection frequency depends on the building type and usage:
• General Recommendation: Every six months, as per BS 9999.
• High-Traffic Areas: More frequent inspections may be necessary due to increased wear and tear.
• Multi-Occupied Residential Buildings Over 11 Meters: Quarterly checks of communal fire doors and annual checks of flat entrance doors are legally required.
Why Are Fire Door Inspections Important?
Fire door inspections are not only a legal requirement but also a crucial aspect of building safety. Regular inspections help to:
• Ensure Compliance: Meet the obligations set out in the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which mandate quarterly checks of communal fire doors in buildings over 11 meters and annual checks of flat entrance doors.
• Protect Lives and Property: Properly functioning fire doors can prevent the spread of fire and smoke, providing vital time for occupants to evacuate safely.
• Reduce Insurance Premiums: Demonstrating compliance with fire safety regulations can lead to lower insurance costs for your building.
• Maintain Property Value: Regular maintenance and compliance with safety standards help preserve the value and integrity of your property.
Customer Reviews
Hear from our satisfied clients about our fire door inspection services.
Lockflame provided thorough inspections, ensuring our fire doors are compliant and safe.
John Smith
New York
The professionalism and attention to detail from Lockflame were exceptional during our fire door inspection.
Emily Davis
Los Angeles