When Are Fire-Rated Doors Required?

Fire safety is one of the most essential things to be considered when constructing or renovating a building. When a fire occurs, it can spread quickly and cause structural damage, injuries, and even fatalities. The installation of fire-rated doors is an important measure to help prevent the spread of fire and protect the building occupants. In this blog post, we will discuss when fire-rated doors are required by law and the benefits of installing them.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand what fire-rated doors are

Fire-rated doors are doors that have been tested and certified to resist fire for a certain amount of time. They are constructed with materials that are highly resistant to fire, such as steel or solid wood. The purpose of these doors is to slow down the spread of the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas of the building. Fire-rated doors come in different ratings, which indicate their ability to resist fire for a certain amount of time, such as 30, 60, or 90 minutes.

Secondly, fire-rated doors are required by law in specific areas of a building, mainly in the following conditions

When there is a requirement for a fire door by the building code

When a wall separating the sleeping areas of a building does not extend to the ceiling

When a building’s occupancy classification from the building code requires a fire door

When a fire-rated door is required for elevators or doors leading to an exit stairwell

When an interior door in a commercial building connects an attached garage or storage area to the main building

When the opening through a firewall is larger than 100 square inches

Thirdly, installing fire-rated doors has several benefits

One of the most significant benefits is that they can help contain the fire, prevent it from spreading, and potentially save lives. Moreover, they can reduce the risk of property damage, allowing firefighters to extinguish the fire more effectively. Fire-rated doors also provide a barrier against smoke, which can be equally harmful to the occupants of the building. Additionally, fire-rated doors are usually built to be more durable, which can also provide extra security to the building.

Fourthly, to ensure the effectiveness of fire-rated doors, they need to be installed and maintained correctly

Correct installation and maintenance are essential to ensure that the door remains in good condition and maintains its protective properties, especially during the event of a fire. Regular maintenance should include cleaning, checking hinges, and ensuring the door complements its frame.

Conclusion

To conclude, having a fire-rated door installed in a building is crucial to help prevent the spread of fire and ensure occupant safety. They are required by law in specific areas of a building and are usually beneficial in many ways. In summary, the installation of fire-rated doors should always be considered in every building’s plans, along with regular maintenance checks to keep them in good working condition. By doing so, people in buildings can rest assured that they are in a safer and protected environment.