Who Should Install Fire Doors?

Fire doors are essential safety features in any building, designed to protect lives by slowing the spread of fire and smoke. They create a vital barrier, giving occupants time to evacuate safely while also minimising property damage. However, the effectiveness of a fire door depends on its correct installation. So, who should be responsible for installing fire doors, and why is professional expertise so crucial?

This blog will answer those questions, helping you understand why the right installer is key to ensuring fire safety compliance.

Why Professional Installation is Essential

Fire doors are more than just standard doors with a fire-resistant label; they are complex safety devices that need to meet strict regulations. Their effectiveness relies not only on their design and materials but also on their proper installation. Even the highest-rated fire door can fail if it is not installed correctly, which is why professional expertise is so important.

Legal Requirements for Fire Door Installation

In the UK, fire doors are subject to regulations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation places a legal duty on property owners and employers to ensure that all fire safety measures, including fire doors, are up to standard and maintained. Poor installation can lead to penalties, and more importantly, endanger the lives of those who use the building.

Risks of Incorrect Installation

Incorrectly fitted fire doors may not close properly, leaving gaps that allow smoke and fire to spread. Even small installation errors, such as gaps wider than 4mm between the door and the frame, can severely reduce the door's ability to contain fire and smoke. This is why it's crucial that the installer understands the detailed specifications that need to be met.

Improperly installed fire doors can also fail to comply with fire safety regulations, which may invalidate insurance claims in the event of a fire.

Who Should Install Fire Doors?

1. Certified Fire Door Installers

The best way to ensure fire doors are installed correctly is to hire a certified fire door installer. These professionals have undergone specialist training in fire door installation, learning about regulations, proper fitting methods, and the importance of features like intumescent strips, door closers, and smoke seals.

Certified installers are trained to meet the required standards such as BS 8214 for fire door assemblies and installations. By hiring a certified installer, you can be confident that your fire doors will meet the necessary legal and safety requirements.

2. Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) Inspectors

FDIS inspectors are trained not only to install fire doors but also to conduct inspections and audits of existing fire doors. They can ensure that your fire doors are functioning correctly after installation and provide ongoing maintenance advice. Choosing an FDIS-accredited installer guarantees that the installation will meet the highest safety standards, providing peace of mind.

3. Competent Contractors

In some cases, you may hire a general contractor to install fire doors, but it is vital to ensure that they are experienced in fire door installation. A competent contractor should understand the importance of proper fitting, be knowledgeable about current fire safety regulations, and be able to follow manufacturer instructions.

However, it’s worth noting that not all general contractors have the specialist knowledge required, and without certification, there is a risk that the installation may not meet the strict requirements for fire doors. Therefore, hiring a specialist is usually the safer choice.

What to Look for in a Fire Door Installer

When choosing a fire door installer, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you are hiring a qualified professional:

• Accreditation: Look for installers with certification from recognised bodies like the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) or BM TRADA. These certifications confirm that the installer has received the necessary training and passed assessments on fire door safety.

• Experience: Ask about the installer’s experience with fire doors. Have they completed similar projects in the past, and can they provide references or case studies?

• Knowledge of Regulations: Ensure the installer is up-to-date with current fire safety regulations, such as BS 476 Part 22 and BS EN 1634. This knowledge ensures that the doors will be fitted to the required legal standard.

Conclusion

Installing fire doors is not a job for just anyone. Given their critical role in protecting lives and property during a fire, fire doors must be installed by certified professionals who have the expertise to ensure they function as intended. Certified fire door installers and FDIS inspectors are best equipped to handle these installations, ensuring compliance with regulations and giving you peace of mind that your property is safe.

Whether you’re a property owner or a building manager, it’s crucial to choose the right professional for fire door installation. Doing so could make all the difference in the event of an emergency. 

For certified installers and more information on fire door safety, visit our website or learn more in our blog.