What is the Purpose of a Fire Door? A Comprehensive Guide
When we think of fire safety, we usually consider fire extinguishers and alarms the top protective tools, but there is more to it. A fire door is an important safety tool that helps protect the area against fire accidents. A strong fire door can withstand fire and keep your and other buildings safe. Every structure needs a top-quality fire door as a part of the emergency exit to avoid any casualties while escaping.
The primary purpose of a fire door installation is to stop further movement of fire and help people escape quickly. In many multi-occupied residential buildings, you will find fire protection tools to keep the building safe in the event of a fire. Fire breaks can take place at any time. In fact, every building needs to have a passive fire protection system.
Installing a fire door is part of Fire Safety England regulations, and any structure not having modern fire doors can attract heavy fines and other legal issues. But what is the purpose of a fire door? To answer this question, we have explained it in different prospects and their connection to the safety of the building. We further explain what these doors are made up of that can potentially save lives.
What is the Purpose of a Fire Door?
The primary function of a fire door is to protect the lives of the people inside the building. It is the first safety order that every building needs to follow. If installed correctly, the fire door can help spread the fire further, giving people enough time to escape. You can rest assured that the fire door is constructed per fire safety England regulations. Following the Fire Safety Act is important to save people from major accidents. A finely designed door with all the elements should be able to hold back the fire for at least 30 minutes or more.
When closed, these fire-resisting doors seal tightly, limiting the quantity of oxygen that gets to the fire and preventing heat and flames from spreading further.
If you are following the regulatory reform of fire safety in commercial premises or even in residential, the main purpose is to save lives.
What Are Fire Doors Made of?
Once you know the fire door's purpose, you can learn about its components. Everything from the door frame to the fire door retainers is important to consider as part of your fire safety precautions. A fire door can be manufactured from various materials, including timber, steel, gypsum and aluminum. Moreover, one has to consider the regulatory reform of fire safety while manufacturing the fire door. The regulatory overhaul suggests a fire must have borosilicate or ceramic glass windows and an anti-shatter wire mesh. This helps to stop fires, and the property owners can stay safe.
Fire doors are flush with the frame to improve fire resistance; any gaps are sealed with silicone-based fire-resistant sealant. These are frequently complemented by an intumescent strip connected to the bottom of the door, which expands when exposed to heat, preventing smoke from penetrating underneath.
A fire door can also install intumescent seals on the sides and top. During a fire, these seals expand to fill the gaps between the door and the frame, helping to stop fires.
Steel fire doors do not require these seals because they expand naturally during a fire, keeping fire and smoke out around the edges. They also carry closing mechanisms and are best for public buildings.
How Long Does a Fire Door Last?
A fire door can last many years, depending on the material used. It is best to check the fire rating before installing the fire door. Different grades define the door's performance. The grades are based on how long they are sustained or have fire-resistant ability. The primary options are FD30 (30 minutes), FD60 (60 minutes), FD90 (90 minutes), and FD120 (120 minutes).
The fundamental difference between the grades is the doors 'approved core thickness. This is the door's core material, often covered by an attractive covering of a different material.
Conclusion
Given the fire door's vital role in holding back the fire spreading, you must install top-quality fire doors from experts. As a responsible person, installing a fire alarm and a top-quality fire door must be your priority. It is one of the safest escape routes for public residents.
When installed correctly by experts, you can rest assured that the door has all the elements fitted and it meets fire safety norms. It is best to conduct fire door inspections before installing.