Fire Door Do's
Keep Fire Doors Operational: Ensure your fire doors are always in working order to provide the protection they are designed for.
Regular Testing: Test your fire doors frequently. Inspections must comply with AS1851:2012 standards to confirm that the doors and hardware function properly.
Ensure Fire Doors Close Automatically: Fire doors should either remain closed or close automatically when activated by the fire alarm, especially if using electronic magnetic hold open devices.
Keep Fire Doors Latched: Make sure fire doors latch securely. If held open with an electromagnetic device, they should still close and latch automatically.
Prompt Repairs: Immediately repair or replace any damaged or defective fire doors, frames, or hardware components to maintain reliability.
Clear Obstructions: Keep the area in front of and behind fire doors clear of items that could prevent them from closing or obstruct passage.
Professional Inspections: Have your fire doors inspected by a licensed professional to ensure compliance and effectiveness with the legislation applicable in your state or territory.
Fire Door Don'ts
Don't Prop Open Fire Doors: Avoid using wedges, kick-down stops, or other mechanical devices to keep fire doors open, as they must remain closed to function properly in a fire.
Don't Use Hold Back Latches: Never use devices like magnets or tape to prevent fire doors from latching; they must latch securely to act as effective fire barriers.
Don't Decorate Fire Doors: Refrain from hanging signs, wreaths, or decorations that exceed 5% of the door’s surface area, as these can fuel a fire and compromise the door's effectiveness.
Don't Block Vision Panels: Avoid hanging items over or on fire-rated vision panels, as this can allow fire to spread through ignition.
Don't Modify Fire Doors: Do not cut, trim, or alter fire doors, frames, or hardware without consulting a professional; modifications can render the door non-compliant.
Don't Shim with Non-Metal Materials: Use only steel shims for hinges and hardware on fire doors; wooden, plastic, or nylon shims can misalign the door during a fire.
Don't Conceal Certification Tags: Ensure that certification tags on fire doors and frames are always visible for inspection by authorities.
Don't Install Barricades: Avoid installing devices that obstruct access or escape routes on fire doors, as they must allow immediate egress for occupants and access for first responders.
By following these essential do's and don'ts, you can help ensure that your fire doors provide maximum protection for both the building and its occupants.
