Fire Door Safety Week - Why It Matters and How We Can Help

September 24, 2024

As we mark Fire Door Safety Week 2024, it's time to remind ourselves just how critical fire doors are in safeguarding lives and property. Fire Door Safety Week, running from 23rd September - 27th September, is an annual event that raises awareness of the importance of fire doors in preventing the spread of fire and smoke, protecting buildings, and giving occupants vital time to escape.

At Aldridge Security, the UK’s largest security wholesaler, we are proud to support this campaign and do our part in helping businesses, landlords, and property managers understand their legal and ethical responsibilities when it comes to fire door safety. As a trusted provider, we offer a range of high-quality products designed to meet fire door safety regulations and enhance protection.

Why Fire Door Safety Matters

Fire doors are a critical element of any building’s passive fire protection system. A properly installed and maintained fire door can withstand fire for a specified period, usually between 30 to 120 minutes, depending on the fire rating. This time allows occupants to escape and gives fire services the chance to control the blaze.

Unfortunately, many fire doors fail to perform effectively due to improper installation, lack of maintenance, or being wedged open. According to Fire Door Safety Week, three million fire doors are installed each year in the UK, yet 75% of fire doors inspected in 2023 were condemned due to poor installation or maintenance.

Fire Door Safety Tips for Building Owners and Managers

Ensure Correct Installation
Make sure your fire doors are fitted by certified professionals. Proper installation is key to their effectiveness.

Regular Inspections
Conduct regular checks on all fire doors, looking for signs of wear and tear, damage to seals, and whether they close fully when released.

Do Not Block or Wedge Open
Fire doors should never be propped open. Always use approved closing mechanisms that keep the door closed when not in use.

Ensure Compliance
Ensure that all fire doors meet regulatory standards and are appropriately certified.

Fire Door Safety Products from Aldridge Security

At Aldridge Security, we are dedicated to providing products that help you meet your fire safety obligations, here are some of our key offerings:

Fire Door Closers
Our fire door closers are designed to automatically close doors in the event of a fire, ensuring that they function as intended. Options include both surface-mounted and concealed closers, all compliant with British fire safety standards.

Fire Door Seals and Intumescent Strips
Proper seals and intumescent strips are essential to prevent smoke from leaking through a fire door. We stock a wide range of seals and strips that expand when exposed to high temperatures, creating a barrier against fire and smoke.

Hinges and Locks
Fire-rated hinges and locks are designed to withstand intense heat without warping or breaking, ensuring the door remains intact. We offer a variety of fire-rated hinges, handles, and locks that are tested for durability.

Hold-Open Devices
For doors that need to remain open under normal circumstances, we offer electromagnetic hold-open devices. These systems release the door automatically in the event of a fire alarm, allowing the door to close and contain the fire.

Fire Door Signage
Clear and durable signage helps everyone understand the importance of fire doors. We provide a range of fire door signs to clearly mark exits and instructions.

Exit Hardware
Exit hardware, also known as panic hardware or push bars, are devices installed on emergency exit doors to allow quick and easy egress in case of an emergency, ensuring that people can safely and efficiently exit a building.

How We Can Help You Ensure Fire Door Safety

With over 75 years of experience in the security industry, Aldridge Security is here to help you choose the right products for your fire safety needs. Our knowledgeable team can offer expert advice to assist you in complying with fire safety regulations.

Let’s all do our part this Fire Door Safety Week to improve fire door awareness and make our buildings safer for everyone. If you need any advice on fire door safety please get in touch. You can find out more about National Fire Door Safety Week by visiting their website.