Everything you need to know about fire door hardware

The focus on fire safety has rightly intensified following the Grenfell Tower disaster. The Hackitt Review has examined building regulations and fire safety, with the trade now readying itself for potential changes.

Now more than ever, individuals and businesses need to understand fire safety, including fire doors which help save lives and protect properties.

IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery, has created a checklist which advises on the essential components required to make fire doors compliant.

Door closers

The principal objective of a closer is to ensure the fire door is kept closed, and in the case of unlatched fire doors to hold them shut in the event of a fire. A minimum ‘power size 3’ is required, and as with all fire door components, must be CE marked. The Arrone AR3500 Door Closer is an adjustable power size 2-4 fire door closer suitable for living accommodation and offices. With a 120-minute fire rating, closing and latch speed adjustments, back check and a 10-year guarantee, this product offers durability and flexibility.

Hold open devices

Hold open devices, such as the Dorgard Smartsound, are the only legal method for keeping a fire door open. They should release the door when required and need to be tested in accordance with BS EN 1155 for electromechanical devices. On hearing a continuous fire alarm, the Dorgard will release, allowing the fire door to close under the pressure of the overhead door closer. This new smartsound uses audio filtering to listen for an actual alarm, reducing false activations by background noise.

Hinges

To ensure your fire door is secure, a minimum of three hinges is recommended. Importantly, all hinges should be marked with the CE stamp, be the appropriate grade for the door and fitted with the correct sized screws. Intumescent hinge pads should also be fitted to ensure the perimeter of the door is protected in compliance with European standards. The Twin Ball Bearing Fire Door Hinge is ideal as it is specifically designed for fire door usage and is suitable for doors up to 120kg.

Signage, intumescent seals and locks and latches are also essential components when it comes to fire door safety. To download IronmongeryDirect’s fire door checklist, visit www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/fire-safety.

Fire doors are too often downgraded on a specification or neglected during their service life.It is vital that correct installation and maintenance are carried out to properly ensure fire safety.

IronmongeryDirect has over 16,500 products available. Orders can be placed as late as 8pm Sunday - Friday for next day delivery, and by 4pm on Saturday.

For more information, visit: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk or call: 0800 168 28 28.