Important Tips on What to Look for in Fire Doors

With the advent of high-rise buildings, Smart Cities, and planned communities in India, fire safety has become a critical requirement and necessity. The National Building Code of 2016 has been amended to include stringent fire safety norms and precautions that all builders across the country must follow. Both active and passive fire protection products are essential, with fire doors being a crucial component in ensuring safe evacuation in high-rise buildings, residential complexes, commercial establishments, malls, and large structures.

What is a Fire Door?

Fire doors are designed to secure exits in any structure, commonly used in stairways and compartmental exits. They prevent the spread of fire and smoke, allowing safe evacuation. Fire doors can withstand fire for up to 4 hours, with most applications in India recommending a 2-hour fire rating as per the National Building Code. Fire doors are typically made of steel for higher ratings and wood for up to 2-hour ratings.

Why Use Tested and Certified Fire Doors?

Using tested and certified fire doors ensures reliability and compliance with safety standards. In India, fire doors should adhere to standards such as BS 476 (Part 20 & 22) and IS 3614 (Part 2). Certified fire doors from reputable manufacturers guarantee performance during a fire emergency.

What to Look for in Fire Doors?

When selecting fire doors, consider the following factors:

1. Material and Fire Rating:

• Steel or Wooden: Choose based on the required fire rating and application.
• Fire Rating Duration: Ensure the fire door can withstand fire for the necessary duration, typically 30 minutes to 4 hours.

2. Physical Properties:

• Door Frame Profile
• Steel Sheet Thickness
• Door Shutter Thickness
• These should match the type test report and material test certificate from the manufacturer.

3. Test Certificates and Standards:

• Verify test certificates from recognized labs (government-approved or reputed private labs).
• Check the applicable standards of the tests conducted on the fire doors.

4. Manufacturer’s Experience:

• Assess the manufacturer’s experience and track record to ensure quality and consistency.

Installation: Proper installation of fire doors is crucial for their effectiveness. It is recommended that fire doors be installed by experienced professionals or the manufacturer’s team, following the specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. This ensures that the fire doors function correctly in the event of a fire.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that the fire doors installed in your building provide the necessary protection and comply with national fire safety standards.