Common Myths About Fire Doors You Shouldn’t Believe!

Common Myths About Fire Doors You Shouldn't Believe!

Every building must abide by hazard-protection standards to ensure a safe environment, and fire doors are a vital part of fire hazard protection measures. Fire doors are a passive fire protection device that, when closed, acts as a barrier to compartmentalize fire. These doors prolong the spread of fire and smoke, allowing occupants to escape securely. In case of fire hazards, these ordinary-looking doors can save many lives. Hence you must be well informed. Living in ignorance and believing myths about fire protection measures can lead to hefty fines, prosecution, or worse, loss of lives. In this article, we have tried to dispel some of the most common myths about fire doors and help you avoid the pitfalls of non-compliant fire doors. 

Myth 1 – Applying a Coating of Fireproof Paint Makes Your Door a Fire Door

It is not that simple! No paint can magically convert a standard door into a fire door. If this were possible, we’d all arm ourselves with a paintbrush today! Fire doors are complex safety structures manufactured using tested components that ensure maximum safety. A door coated with fireproof paint does not comply with safety-measure standards and is therefore not recognized as a fire door. 

Myth 2 – Anyone Can Install a Fire Door

 Fire doors need to be fitted perfectly to ensure they work correctly at the 

time of the hazard. Not everyone can install fire doors; it requires the proper skills and experience. Even if you are a passionate DIY enthusiast, avoid taking up fire-door installation on your hands. Only when you have employed the services of a qualified technician can you be truly secure in the knowledge that you won’t face any legal consequences and that your building is compliant with the law.

Myth 3- Landlords Are Responsible for Fire Doors

All residential and commercial premises must adhere to fire safety standards, and if you are a building owner or a landlord, you are responsible. When you are renting out your property, it doesn’t mean that the tenant is responsible for fire safety. By escaping your responsibility of fire-safety adherence, you not only risk prosecution and legal charges but also put lives at risk.

 Myth 4- Documentation Doesn’t Matter

Every fire door must have a current independently accredited test certificate, and a certification label should be attached to the fire door. These certificates mention various details like manufacturer’s name, the manufacturing date, and the fire rating. These certifications determine the compliance to the fire safety performance standard of your fire doors.

 Myth 5 – You Can Convert Your Standard Doors Into Fire Doors by Fitting Larger Doorstops

This is one of the most believed misconceptions about fire doors. Employing doorstops to your standard doors cannot convert them into fire doors. Fire doors have to pass a fire test and be compliant with standards, and fitting door stops is not the solution! A compliant fire-door must have a test certificate and should be fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Myth 6 – The Gap Between the Fire Door and the Door Frame Doesn’t Matter

 The dimensions of the gap around the door play an essential role in blocking smoke and fire. Therefore, if not fitted correctly, the fire door can render useless in the event of a hazard. The gap around the frame should not be more than 3mm, and underneath the frame should not be more than 8mm. 

Myth 7 – Fire Doors Won’t Match My Interiors 

Your fire doesn’t always have to be unattractive! Over the years, companies have come up with plenty of designs for fire doors. Fire doors nowadays come with safety and style! You can achieve a beautiful finish in your interior design by selecting the right door that complements your aesthetics. 

Closing Thoughts 

After reading this article, we hope that you’ll be able to bust the false claims of fire door compliance and tell apart genuinely compliant fire doors. Are you looking for quality passive fire protection? CA Drillers can help. Contact us today.