Fire doors are unique when it comes to protecting buildings from the ravages of fire and smoke. Built to help stop flames and smoke from spreading in the event of a fire, they also typically serve as ordinary entrances and exits. That kind of everyday use makes fire doors subject to wear and tear, which is why it's so critical to have them checked by a fire door inspector at least every six months. 

Fire Door Inspection in Ireland

When you own or manage a building in Ireland, scheduling fire door inspections at six-month intervals is more than just a good idea. It's required by law, as stipulated in the government's fire and safety regulations. It's the role of a professional who inspects fire doors to verify that each component aligns with the strict safety standards established by Ireland's legal system.

A certification of inspection confirming that all the fire doors in your building are up to code helps protect you from financial penalties and litigation. More importantly, it ensures the fire doors work correctly during an emergency, safeguarding inhabitants and firefighters from harm.

How to Choose a Fire Door Inspector?

Credentials — that's the first thing to inquire about when searching for a qualified fire door inspector. Ireland's Fire Safety Order requires those who provide fire door services to ensure each inspector on their team is a "Competent Person," someone with sufficient training, experience, and expertise to implement government-mandated fire safety measures.

You can glean this information by asking the company directly about the level of experience their inspectors have in conducting fire door surveys. What reference documents they use is equally important. As only certified products are allowed in fire door construction, the company should be able to provide you with written evidence that the doors are in accordance with the law. 

Fire Door Surveys

Dozens of items must be ticked off a list before a competent inspector approves the safety of your fire doors. Before verifying that a fire door meets government regulations, a reputable inspector will conduct an extensive survey. You should receive a comprehensive report on this survey with recommendations on addressing and resolving any issues encountered with your fire doors.

A fire door survey covers three primary factors: the material of the door itself, its features, and the manner in which it's connected to the surrounding structure.

Fire Door Construction — From steel and aluminum to solid wood, materials used in fire doors must be engineered to withstand heat, smoke, and live flames. Any glass or glazing used in the door panels must also be inspected to confirm it's resistant to heat, smoke, and flame.

Safety Features — Mechanical door closers must be carefully inspected for compliance with established fire and safety regulations. Units with "hold-open" devices must be altered so that the doors will automatically close as required by law. Signage on the door should indicate that it's an official fire door.

Framing and Metal Work — From the intumescent strips that expand when exposed to heat to the hinges, latches, and bolts, the accessories that attach the door to the framing must meet fire and safety criteria. Specific measurements must also be taken to verify that any gaps around the fire doors do not exceed a maximum of 4mm.

Fire Door Safety Services

From levers and handles to door bolts and electromagnetic locks, every component of your fire doors gets inspected during a professional fire door survey. Due to the everyday usage of many fire doors, it's not uncommon for inspectors to determine at the end of the survey that remedial measures are required. Some doors may need a simple adjustment; others may need a straightforward repair. Some fire doors might need to be replaced altogether.

A first-class fire door inspection company is equipped to rectify any problems found with your fire doors so that they meet mandated-by-law safety standards. Highly qualified professionals can also provide the regular fire door maintenance it takes to avoid the cost and inconvenience of future problems. Whether by providing each door with unique identification numbers or by preparing a schedule for upcoming maintenance service calls, the company to choose is the one ready to address all your fire door needs.

Call us now to book your fire door inspection