Industry News

New fire safety regulations highlight fire door importance

­New UK Fire Regulations regarding high rise residential buildings have come into force this week.

As part of the Fire Safety Regulations 2022, the importance of fire doors has been highlighted and now communal fire doors must have frequent regular inspections.

Fire doors are an essential measure in preventing the spread of flames, smoke and toxic fumes should a fire occur.  A fire door allows the fire to be compartmentalised, delaying the time it takes to spread from one area to another.

A standard fire door should meet the industry standards, which provides up to 30 minutes of protection and should be fitted with a self-closing device. This not only protects the other areas within the building or block, but provides essential time for evacuation.

Geofire has fire door safety solutions for high-rise buildings and installations that are legally compliant and we urge building owners and managers to act upon the regulations now.

New regulations for fire doors

Regulation 10 requires that, if the top storey of the building is above 11m in height (typically, a building of more than four storeys) the Responsible Person must:

• Check all flat entrance fire doors (including holding and self-closing devices) at least every 12 months;

• Carry out visual checks of any fire doors (including holding and self-closing devices) in communal areas every 3 months

These inspections will increase awareness, communication and ensure better safety management measures for residents.

All stakeholders should take this time for everyone to work together to make sure buildings are safe for everyone and also to take this as an opportunity to raise awareness about fire safety and the importance of being prepared in case of an emergency.

Read more about the new Fire Safety Regulations 2022 and how to check fire doors and door holders/closers:

Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022: Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022: fire door guidance – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Need to install or replace a fire door holder or closer? Fire Safety Products For Sale at Fire Door Safety Shop