Meeting UK Fire Door Regulations: A Complete Guide

Fire doors are a critical component of passive fire protection, designed to compartmentalise rooms and keep fires in one place, slowing the spread of fire and smoke for as long as possible, safeguard escape routes, and protect lives. However, meeting UK fire door regulations involves more than just installing the door. Here’s a breakdown of key compliance factors, from gaps to seals and beyond.

Understanding the Basics of Fire Door Compliance

To meet UK regulations, fire doors must:

  • Resist fire for a specified duration (e.g., FD30 for 30 minutes, FD60 for 60 minutes).
  • Be properly installed and maintained according to manufacturers’ guidelines.
  • Be part of a certified and tested system, including the frame, hardware, and seals.

Importance of Door Gaps

Gaps around the fire door play a vital role in fire resistance. UK standards recommend:

  • Max gap of 2-4 mm along the sides and top.
  • Threshold gap of up to 8mm (if smoke seals are not required) or 3mm (if smoke seals are in place).

Gaps exceeding these tolerances can compromise the door’s ability to resist fire and smoke. Regular checks with a gap gauge ensure compliance.

Intumescent Fire Seals around Door leaf

Intumescent seals expand when exposed to high temperatures, closing gaps to contain fire between the door leaf and frame to contain fire, and keep it from spreading around the door.

To comply, you must:

  • Install certified intumescent seals in grooves around the frame or door leaf edges on latch, hinge and top-side
  • Use seals suitable for the door’s fire rating.
  • Regularly inspect for damage or wear.

Smoke Seals

Smoke seals are crucial for stopping toxic smoke from spreading. These seals are often combined with intumescent strips for dual protection, becoming fire & smoke seals.

Ensure:

  • The seals are intact and functional.
  • They are installed correctly
  • Any replacements match the original specification.
  • The brush size is suitable for the door gaps

Door Hardware Compliance

Fire doors must be fitted with certified hardware, including:

  • Self-closing devices to ensure the door closes fully after opening.
  • 3x Fire-rated hinges to ensure the door is supported and reduces warping in the case of a fire. Combined with intumescent Hinge packers behind these hinges
  • Fire rated latches, and locks tested for the same duration as the door.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

To remain compliant:

  • Conduct routine fire door inspections every 6 months or more frequently in high-traffic areas.
  • Check for signs of damage, warping, or missing components.

Certification is Key

Only install fire doors certified to UK standards (e.g., BS 476-22 or BS EN 1634-1).

Conclusion

Meeting UK fire door regulations requires attention to detail at every stage, from installation to ongoing maintenance. Ensuring proper gaps, seals, and hardware will not only keep your property compliant but also provide peace of mind in the event of a fire.

For expert advice on fire doors and passive fire protection, or to explore our range of compliant products, contact us today!