In 2025, the United Kingdom is set to implement significant updates to fire safety regulations,...
Fire safety is a critical concern in the health sector, where the protection of patients, staff, and visitors is paramount. Fire doors are an essential component of passive fire protection, designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, safeguard evacuation routes, and provide crucial time for emergency responses. Ensuring compliance with fire door regulations in health sector facilities is not just a legal requirement but a vital measure to protect lives.
This blog post outlines the key aspects of fire door compliance and provides a practical checklist for healthcare facilities.
Key Fire Door Regulations for the Health Sector
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Regulatory Standards
Fire doors in healthcare settings must meet the following standards:
- BS EN 1634-1: Fire resistance testing of doors and shutters.
- Approved Document B (Fire Safety): Guidance under the Building Regulations for fire safety in buildings.
- Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022: Includes requirements for fire door inspections and maintenance in high-risk settings.
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Maintenance and Inspections
Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, responsible persons must:
- Carry out quarterly checks on all fire doors in high-risk areas, such as hospitals and care homes.
- Ensure self-closing devices are operational and doors close properly without gaps or obstructions.
- Conduct detailed annual inspections of all fire doors.
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Materials and Installation
Fire doors must be certified and installed by qualified professionals. Incorrect installation can significantly reduce their effectiveness. Always ensure:
- The fire door is properly labelled with a certification mark.
- It is installed with compatible frames, seals, and hardware.
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Training and Awareness
Staff in healthcare facilities must be trained in fire safety protocols, including the proper use and maintenance of fire doors. Awareness campaigns can help reduce the risk of improper use, such as wedging fire doors open.
Fire Door Compliance Checklist for Healthcare Facilities
Installation:
☐ Fire doors meet BS EN 1634-1 standards.
☐ Installed with certified frames, seals, and hardware.
☐ Doors are fitted by a certified professional.
Inspections and Maintenance:
☐ Quarterly inspections of high-risk area doors are scheduled and logged.
☐ Annual fire door inspections are conducted and documented.
☐ Self-closing devices are functional and effective.
☐ Hinges, seals, and intumescent strips are in good condition.
☐ No visible damage, such as cracks, warping, or gaps.
Use and Awareness:
☐ Staff are trained in fire door safety and compliance.
☐ Fire doors are not propped open unless equipped with an approved hold-open device linked to the fire alarm.
☐ Clear signage indicates fire doors should remain closed.
Record Keeping:
☐ Inspection and maintenance records are up to date and accessible.
☐ Any repairs or replacements are logged with dates and details.
Common Fire Door Issues in Healthcare Settings
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Damage from High Foot Traffic
Healthcare facilities see heavy use of fire doors, leading to wear and tear. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential. -
Propped Open Doors
Fire doors are sometimes wedged open for convenience, which compromises their effectiveness. Ensure proper hold-open mechanisms are in place where required. -
Lack of Training
Staff unaware of the importance of fire doors may inadvertently misuse them. Regular training can mitigate this risk.
Conclusion
Fire door compliance in the health sector is more than a regulatory obligation, it’s a lifesaving responsibility. Regular inspections, proper installation, and staff training are key to ensuring fire doors perform as intended in an emergency. Use the checklist provided to assess your facility's fire door compliance and take action to address any gaps.
For more insights on fire safety compliance in healthcare, contact us or explore our range of fire door solutions.
Stay compliant. Stay safe.
