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Fire doors not only play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and properties in the event of a fire, but they are also a legal requirement in all commercial buildings in the UK. Whether you are a commercial property owner or a business manager or have a genuine interest in fire safety, our comprehensive blog will detail everything you need to know to demystify the regulations of commercial fire doors. Who is Responsible for Fire Doors in Commercial Buildings? What are Commercial Fire Door Regulations? Fire Doors in a Commercial Building Installation Regulations for Fire Doors Choose LFS to Assess Your Commercial Fire Door Needs Who is Responsible for Fire Doors in Commercial Buildings? In accordance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, building operators in the UK should appoint a person responsible for handling the fire safety aspects of a commercial building. This ‘Responsible Person’ can be the landlord or an employer within the building. Their duties include recording a fire risk assessment in full, recording their fire safety arrangements and ensuring fire safety provisions are regularly inspected and maintained. What are Commercial Fire Door Regulations? In all commercial buildings, fire doors are mandatory as per the Fire Safety Order. The rules and regulations apply to new and existing buildings, but the two differ slightly. New Buildings As set out in the government-approved fire safety Document B, all new commercial premises must contain fire doors as per the compartmentation plan drawings. All new or changing buildings must meet minimum construction standards and maximise fire protection. Document B states that all fire doors in new buildings or those changing use should conform to British or European Standards, such as BS 476-22:1987 or BS EN1634-1:2014. The Fire Safety Order governs all fire safety measures in properties in the UK, with Regulation 38 of the Building Regulations 2010 stating that when changing the use of a building, all relevant documents and updates relating to fire doors must be shared with the responsible person. Existing Buildings The Fire Safety Order applies to existing buildings in which compliance with the regulations is a legal requirement. This regulation covers all public buildings, from places of employment to entertainment venues, and only excludes private homes. The responsible person should conduct fire risk assessments regularly, legislation doesn’t set a specific timeframe on FRA’s, but it is recommended that a commercial fire risk assessment should be carried out on an annual basis to gauge the risk of fire on a premises. Although ideally every 6 months to ensure any changes in staffing, layout and operational considerations.to ensure all existing fire doors meet legal fire protection standards. As per section 17 of the Fire Safety Order, responsible persons must ensure that all fire doors are "subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order, and in good repair.” Fire Doors in a Commercial Building Fire doors are crucial in slowing the spread of a fire and, therefore, should be built by a certified manufacturer. Fire doors must provide fire resistance for at least 30 minutes, giving occupants precious time to escape via a designated route or to a safe area. There are many standards a door needs to meet to be considered an effective fire door: A fire door will be rated FD30 or FD60, providing 30 or 60 minutes of fire resistance, respectively. Fire doors should contain an intumescent seal, usually a graphite substance that swells when heated to prevent fire or smoke from leaking out the door edges. The gap between the door and the frame should be between 2-4mm for the intumescent seal to cover the door edges in the case of a fire. Doors should be self-closing and kept closed at all times. In some cases, fire doors can be held open with a retainer hold open device that closes the door in the event of a fire. Hinges must have the same fire-resistance rating as the door itself. Fire doors usually require 3 hinges for FD30 and FD60 doorsets. Glazing needs to be fire-safe. Glazing must offer the same fire-resistance rating as the door and its other components. For adequate protection, all parts must abide by the same fire rating. Fire Door Placement In commercial properties, the placement of fire doors will depend on the structure of the building. Occupants must escape the building vertically or horizontally during a fire, the safest route, as determined by a fire risk assessment and fire evacuation strategy plan. The fire risk assessment will also determine each door's fire rating. For whichever route the occupant must take to leave the building, there should be fire-rated doors that pave the way to maximise safety. Installation Regulations for Fire Doors As fire doors are an integral part of a passive fire protection system, they should be installed by a certified installation company so that you can have the utmost confidence that they will provide you with the necessary protection in the event of a fire. Commercial Fire Door Regulations FAQs What is the difference between a fire and a regular door? The purpose of a fire door is to compartmentalise a fire to one room, slowing the spread of fire and allowing occupants to escape the building. A fire door and its components are designed to a specific fire rating; standard doors cannot compartmentalise fire and protect the occupants and the property until the fire brigade arrives. Do all office doors need to be fire doors? Not every door within a commercial building is required to provide fire resistance, it is important to check compartmentation line drawings to ensure compliance with the fire strategy of the building. How do I find out if my door is a fire door? A fire door will have a certification label on the top edge of the door leaf. If present, the label will contain information such as the manufacturer's name, telephone number, certification number, and fire rating (FD30). Choose LFS to Assess Your Commercial Fire Door Needs As fire doors are a legal requirement in all non-domestic properties, fire doors with an appropriate fire rating must be installed across your commercial property. Do not worry; conducting a fire door inspection survey and correctly installing the required fire doors on your commercial property can be easy with LFS. At LFS, we are dedicated to putting fire safety at the heart of our services. Contact us today for more information. 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Fire safety is a matter of paramount importance in any environment, be it a workplace, a public facility, or even your own home. Understanding and managing fire risks is not just a prudent practice; it's a legal responsibility that should never be overlooked. This is why we have put together a comprehensive guide at LFS, to help you determine which type of fire risk assessment you need. What is a Fire Risk Assessment? A fire risk assessment is a structured and methodical process to comprehensively evaluate potential fire hazards within a specific environment. It is designed to identify and analyse these hazards to determine their risk level and establish measures for minimising or eliminating those risks. This critical assessment thoroughly examines various aspects of the premises, including its layout, construction, occupancy, and fire safety measures in place. The assessment takes a holistic approach to safety by considering factors such as the types of materials present that could fuel a fire, potential ignition sources like electrical systems or equipment, and the adequacy of fire prevention and protection measures. By examining these elements, the assessment helps businesses and organisations better understand the existing fire risks within their premises and develop a proactive strategy to mitigate them. Selecting the Right Type of Fire Risk Assessment When it comes to fire risk assessments, one size does not fit all. The choice of the assessment type should be tailored to your premises' specific needs and characteristics. Selecting the right type of assessment is a critical decision that directly impacts the effectiveness of your fire safety measures. Here are some key factors to consider when determining the most suitable assessment for your situation: 1. Size and Nature of Your Business or Premises The size and nature of your business or premises play a significant role in determining the appropriate type of fire risk assessment. Small, low-risk environments may only require a basic assessment, while larger or more complex facilities may necessitate a comprehensive evaluation. Understanding the scale and intricacies of your premises is the first step in making an informed choice. 2. Building Structure and Occupancy The structure of your building and its occupancy type are essential considerations. Different types of buildings, such as industrial warehouses, office spaces, retail stores, and healthcare facilities, have varying fire risks and safety needs. Assessments should be tailored to address the specific challenges and requirements associated with your building's structure and purpose. 3. Legal Requirements and Industry Standards Local fire safety regulations and industry standards can dictate the type of assessment you need to conduct. It's crucial to stay informed about the legal obligations in your area and any industry-specific guidelines that apply to your business. Compliance is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental element of ensuring the safety of your premises and occupants. 4. Consultation with Fire Safety Professionals When in doubt, it's always advisable to seek guidance from fire safety professionals. They can assess your specific situation, identify potential risks, and recommend the most suitable type of assessment. Their expertise can be invaluable in ensuring that your fire safety measures are appropriate and effective. Fire Risk Assessment Legal Requirements and Responsibilities In the United Kingdom, fire risk assessments are not just a recommended practice; they are a legal obligation. The UK government's official guidelines clearly stipulate that business owners and employers must adhere to specific legal requirements regarding fire safety. Responsible Person: In accordance with UK law, the "responsible person" within a workplace or premises is tasked with conducting and overseeing fire risk assessments. This individual may be the business owner, employer, landlord, or any other person with control over the premises. It is their legal duty to ensure the safety of everyone within the establishment. Workplace Size and People: The legal requirement for conducting fire risk assessments varies based on the size and nature of the workplace. Specifically, suppose your workplace has five or more employees or is open to the public. In that case, you must conduct a fire risk assessment. This assessment must be thorough and address all potential fire hazards within the premises. Compliance with Regulations: The UK government has established fire safety regulations and standards that businesses and organisations must adhere to. Non-compliance can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and potential imprisonment for the responsible person. Regularity of Assessments: Beyond the initial assessment, it is also a legal requirement to review and update the fire risk assessment regularly. This ensures that fire safety measures remain effective and up-to-date. Failure to do so can lead to legal liabilities in the event of a fire-related incident. The Fire Risk Assessment Process A fire risk assessment is a systematic and organised procedure involving several steps to evaluate and manage fire risks effectively. Let's take a closer look at the key elements of the fire risk assessment process: Step 1: Identify Fire Hazards The process begins by identifying potential sources of fire hazards within your premises. This includes pinpointing flammable materials, ignition sources like electrical equipment, and any conditions or practices that could lead to a fire. Thoroughly assessing your environment for these hazards is the foundation of a successful risk assessment. Step 2: Assess the Level of Risk Once fire hazards are identified, the next step is to assess the level of risk associated with each hazard. This involves considering factors such as the likelihood of a fire starting and the potential consequences if it does. Risks are typically categorised as low, medium, or high to prioritise action and mitigation efforts. Step 3: Consider People at Risk It's essential to determine who might be at risk in the event of a fire. This includes employees, visitors, customers, or others on your premises. Understanding who is at risk helps in tailoring safety measures and evacuation plans accordingly. Step 4: Evaluate Existing Fire Safety Measures The assessment reviews the existing fire safety measures in place, including fire alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire doors, and fire suppression systems. The effectiveness and maintenance of these measures are crucial in determining their ability to control and contain a fire. Step 5: Examine Escape Routes and Evacuation Plans A critical aspect of the assessment is evaluating the layout of the building to ensure there are clear and accessible escape routes. This involves checking the condition of exits, signage, and the adequacy of evacuation plans and procedures. Ensuring that people can safely exit the building during a fire is of paramount importance. Step 6: Assess Training and Awareness The assessment also looks at whether employees and occupants are adequately trained and aware of fire safety procedures and protocols. This includes fire drills, training on the proper use of fire safety equipment, and an understanding of evacuation procedures. Step 7: Review Emergency Response Considering how well the facility is prepared to respond to a fire emergency is essential. This includes the availability of trained personnel to handle fire emergencies, communication systems to alert occupants, and protocols for contacting emergency services. Step 8: Document Findings Throughout the assessment process, detailed documentation is crucial. This documentation should include all identified hazards, assessed risks, and proposed actions to mitigate those risks. A comprehensive record ensures that nothing is overlooked and serves as a reference for future assessments and updates. Step 9: Develop an Action Plan Based on the assessment's findings, an action plan is developed. This plan outlines the specific steps that need to be taken to reduce or eliminate the identified fire risks. It may include recommendations for improving fire safety measures, enhancing evacuation plans, or providing additional training. Step 10: Regular Review and Updates A fire risk assessment is not a one-time event. It requires periodic review and updates to ensure that the fire safety measures remain effective and that new risks are addressed promptly. Regular reviews help keep your premises safe and compliant with changing regulations. Choose LFS for your Fire Risk Assessment In the world of fire safety, knowledge and action go hand in hand. We've explored the essential aspects of fire risk assessments, understanding their importance and their legal obligations. Your commitment to fire safety can make all the difference in protecting your business, your people, and your assets. Now, it's time to take the next step. We're here to help you assess, mitigate, and manage fire risks effectively. Whether you're a small business owner, a facility manager, or responsible for your organisation's safety, get in touch with us today to book your fire risk assessment. Related Articles Biggest Causes Of Fires In Commercial Properties Workplace Safety: What Assessments Does Your Premises Need? What Is The Difference Between Fire Prevention, Protection And Suppression?

In the wake of the Grenfell disaster, ensuring comprehensive fire safety measures in high-rise buildings should have become a top priority for architects, builders, and property owners. Despite the event happening in 2017, it wasn't until 2022 that The Building Safety Act was passed which gave residents and homeowners more rights, powers, and protections - making homes across the country safer to live in. Whilst changes have been slow and there is still work to be done. Design Considerations There are a number of stages in the design of a high-rise building that will look at aspects of fire safety and fire stopping for the structure and its occupants once built. Here are a couple of the major stages that affect a buildings overall fire safety design: Construction Materials Fire safety in high-rise buildings begins with their design and construction. Materials used for construction should adhere to the appropriate fire resistance and insulation to prevent fire from spreading. Equally vital is the use of fire-resistant doors, walls, and flooring to contain and help prevent fire from spreading between areas, buying time for evacuation, and firefighting. The fire compartments created are there to hinder the flame movement throughout the building. The materials used to build the building itself are an extremely important factor in this as we learned from the horrors of the Grenfell fire tragedy. Whilst cladding can enhance the aesthetics and energy efficiency of a structure, it has also come under intense scrutiny in the context of fire safety. Choosing the right cladding material is pivotal in ensuring the overall fire resilience of a building. Fire Escape Routes All high-rise buildings need a fire escape route that is easy to follow in the event of a fire. With high-rise buildings, the only way anyone can get out of a high-rise building would be by going vertically. With this in mind, it is essential that the building prioritises the creation of easily accessible, well-marked escape routes and that staircases are wide enough to accommodate a large number of people at one time. Fire Compartmentalisation Designing a building with passive fire protection in mind is a must to uphold high safety standards. A high-rise should have the ability to compartmentalise a fire and block it off to restrict or slow down the spread. This can be wrecked into the designs of walls, floors and ceilings and utilise fire stopping equipment like automatically closing fire doors and sprinkler systems to tackle a fire at the source. Ventilation The implementation of effective ventilation systems is essential in minimising the potential for smoke accumulation, facilitating safe evacuation, and aiding firefighting operations. The design aspects of the building can significantly enhance the fire safety standards of high-rise buildings. Fire Safety Equipment It's important to be prepared in case a fire does break out in high-rise buildings. There are several essential pieces of equipment that are crucial to ensuring the safety of occupants whilst also aiding fire fighters efforts to put out the flames. Fireproof Doors Fire-resistant doors and screens are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and delay the spread of a fire, allowing occupants to evacuate safely. Fire doors must always be shut and never held open by a door stopper of any kind to ensure the door can properly do its job. Automatic closing fire doors can also be utilised. These will close at the trigger of a fire alarm to help compartmentalise a fire and slow its spread. Fire Alarm Systems Fire alarms are critical in detecting the presence of smoke or fire within a building. They comprise smoke detectors, heat senses, and alarm notification appliances, which collectively serve to prompt alert occupants to the presence of a fire. Early detection is crucial for initiating evacuation procedures. There are three main benefits of having a fire alarm system integrated; Cost efficiency, 24/7 fire detection, quick installation + minimal disruption. Fire Extinguishers Strategically positioned fire extinguishers on each floor of a high-rise building serve as the first line of defence against smaller fires. Usually attached to a wall, they are designed to contain and extinguish fires in their early stages to prevent them from spreading. To deal with a multitude of fire classes, a range of fire extinguishers have been developed with different contents suited to specific classes of fire. Classes include: Class A fires – are fires involving organic solids like paper, wood, etc Class B fires – are fires involving flammable liquids Class C fires – are fires involving flammable gases Class D fires – are fires involving burning metals (e.g. aluminium swarf) Class F fires – are fires involving fats such as those used in deep-fat fryers Electrical fires (the letter E is not used. Instead the symbol of an electric spark is displayed) – are fires caused by electrical equipment Fire Sprinkler Systems Automatic fire sprinkler systems are indispensable for high-rise buildings as they can quickly suppress and control fires before they escalate into catastrophic events. Sprinkler systems are designed to release water or other extinguishing materials directly onto the affected area, reducing the intensity of the fire and minimising property damage. Smoke Control Systems Smoke control systems are particularly useful in managing the movement of smoke within a high-rise building during a fire. These systems often include ventilation systems and pressurisation mechanisms that help prevent the rapid spread of smoke, allowing occupants to navigate the building safely and aiding firefighters in their efforts to locate and extinguish the fire source. Conclusion Having a thorough understanding of fire safety and design considerations is vital for ensuring the safety of people inhabiting high-rise buildings. With this, disasters such as the Grenfell Tower incident are avoidable and will allow people to live comfortably. Get in touch today to see how we can help you. Frequently Asked Questions How often should fire extinguishers be inspected and maintained in high-rise buildings? Fire extinguishers should be inspected and maintained at least once a year by a certified professional. Water, foam, co2, wet chemical and powder fire extinguishers require a monthly visual inspection to ensure that the extinguishers are in their designated locations, accessible, and in good working condition What are the key factors to consider when selecting fire-resistant doors and screens for high-rise buildings? When selecting fire-resistant doors and screens, factors such as fire rating, material composition, installation requirements, and compliance with local fire safety regulations should be carefully considered. It is crucial to choose products that meet the specific fire safety needs of the building while ensuring durability and reliability under various fire exposure conditions. How can people ensure they are well-prepared to use fire extinguishers during an emergency? During an emergency, it's imperative that people are aware of the location of fire extinguishers as well as which one is to be used for each type of fire. Participating in fire drills and learning how to assess and respond to different types of fires can significantly enhance their response capabilities during emergencies.

The Grenfell Tower disaster unveiled huge policy, process, and regulatory oversight flaws. The investigations which followed the fire highlighted a series of failures that led to the incident. An Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety after the Grenfell Tower fire and several new laws and regulations have been introduced in line with its recommendations. The changes are far-reaching. Tenants have been given more rights and avenues for recourse against developers. Stricter oversight has been imposed on the manufacture of construction materials. Plus, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been named the new Building Safety Regulator (BSR). But what, if anything, has been done about the Stay Put policy? What Is The Stay Put Policy A Stay Put policy, is a policy used in high-rise buildings during a fire. The policy recommends that residents not in the area affected remain in their flats with the windows and doors shut. (It is important to note that while the policy advises tenants to stay put, it is not a legal requirement.) The Stay Put policy was first introduced in 1962 in the British Standards Institution (BSI) code of practice. The original policy stated, “The assumption should no longer be made that buildings must be evacuated if a fire occurs and high residential buildings should, therefore, be designed so that the occupants of floors above a dwelling which is on fire, may, if they choose, remain safely on their own floor.” There have been several revisions and amendments, but the ideas behind the policy remain the same. Why Was The Stay Put Policy In Place? There are a number of reasons Stay Put policies are used. Firstly, many high rises are simply not designed to accommodate full evacuations. High-rise buildings will typically have narrow staircases, as was the case at Grenfell, making evacuating difficult for residents. Furthermore, evacuating tenants may obstruct access for emergency services. With the right fire stopping in place, a fire will not spread to other flats but hallways may fill with smoke. Smoke inhalation could be harmful to evacuating residents. Why Were Stay Put Policies Considered Safe? At first glance, the reasons for a Stay Put policy do not offset the risk. However, the risk is usually much lower than you might think. Flats in high-rise buildings use passive fire protection and fire stopping to contain fires, preventing them from spreading to other areas of the building. This means other flats in the building are not at risk from the fire and residents are often safer remaining in their flat than moving into smoke-filled hallways. What Effect Did The Stay Put Policy Have At Grenfell? The Grenfell Tower used a Stay Put policy under the assumption that they had sufficient fire stopping. However, despite internal fire stopping measures, the fire spread through the cladding on the outside of the building. This meant many were not alerted to the fire until it was too late and were not given enough warning to evacuate. What Are PEEPs? The Stay Put policy also left those with disabilities and limited mobility without an evacuation plan. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for high-rise residential buildings. PEEPs are evacuation plans for people with disabilities, limited mobility or sensory impairments. PEEPs preemptively assess and mitigate risks and create a planned response to fire alarms. Are Stay Put Policies Still Used? The Stay Put policy is still widely used for the reasons described earlier. The policy is deemed a safer option if a fire can be contained. Therefore the focus has been placed on changes to better contain fires. With events such as the Grenfell Tower fire and Bolton Cube fire the issue lies predominantly with the cladding used on the building. As a result of this, much of the attention following the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety has been centred on remedying the cladding crisis. Passive Fire Protection At London Fire Solutions we provide a “one-stop” service for all your passive fire protection requirements. We deliver surveying, manufacturing, installation, certification and maintenance for a range of fire protection solutions, including fire doors, screens, and fire alarm systems. Speak to one of our fire safety experts to learn more. Learn more about fire safety To learn more about fire safety, passive fire protection and the response to the Grenfell Tower fire read our blog. Here are some recommended posts to start with: ● The Steps of a Fire Risk Assessment ● Your Guide To Fire Stopping Installation ● Grenfell: 5 Years On

LFS won a Silver Award (£3.5m - 10m category) at the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) 2019 awards. #ccs #loveconstruction #firesafety #LFS

To demonstrate our support of Fire Door Safety Week 23rd – 29th September we are offering a FREE FIRE DOOR SURVEY to anyone who needs one! Simply call us on 0800 035 6827 and quote LFS001, throughout this week so that we can arrange yours. Remember an inspection could save you money if an upgrade is required rather than new doors. This offer is limited to bookings received between the dates of 23rd September to 29th September and one door per request. Plus – if you’re looking for good quality Ironmongery, look no further. Our sister site www.lfsfireshop.co.uk are offering 10% off all ironmongery for this week only. #firesafety #LFS #fireprotection #firedoorsafetyweek

LFS Construction Ambassador, Jana Kuvaitseva, was excited to attend an Employability Skills Day at New Woodlands School in Bromley. The event was organised by ER Events in conjunction with CITB and it provided Jana with the opportunity to talk to pupils in years 7,8 and 9 about her role in construction. #firesafety #lfs #citb