Fire Door Testing

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The fire door testing method for fire doorsets is defined in BS 476 Part 22: methods for determination of the fire resistance of non-loading bearing elements of construction (BS EN 1634-1).

In accordance with this standard, our products undergo independent fire door testing in a UKAS approved test house. In order to provide further assurance of the design, quality and performance of our fire doorsets, we have gained third party certification under the BM Trada Q-Mark and Certifire scheme. This commitment to quality assurance is all underpinned by our ISO 9001 quality management system. Learn more about fire door testing procedures below.

Fire Door Testing Terminology

 
In order to understand fire door testing, itโ€™s important to be familiar with the key terminology used to ensure compliance, safety, and effective protection. Some key fire door testing terms include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rigorous Fire Door Testing

Our doorsets have passed rigorous fire and PAS 24 security testing, ensuring compliance with the latest test centre and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government guidelines.

In December 2018, our doorsets were tested from both sides in a full-scale primary FIRE door test at a UKAS accredited test house for 30 minutes. Recent Government testing of 25 timber fire doors has resulted in all products meeting or exceeding standards. Sentry Doors successfully carried out two independent tests on the 24th of July 2019 with FD30 pre-hung assembled front entrance doorsets on both sides. Tested from both sides in December 2019, our FD60 doorsets have exceeded this standard and lasted up to 74 minutes in independent testing.

Sentry Doors successfully carried out two independent tests on the 24th of July 2019 with FD30 pre-hung assembled front entrance doorsets on both sides.

Tested to both sides in December 2019, our FD60S doorsets have exceeded this standard and lasted up to 74 minutes in independent testing.

Fire Testing Procedure

A complete fire doorset is prepared and then fixed into a wall, which represents its use in practice. The fire door testing procedure involves exposing one face of the door to the heat conditions anticipated in a fire, while observing the door for stability and integrity. The doorset is tested from each side to establish performance with either face exposed to fire conditions.

Prior to the fire door testing commencing, clear end-goal objectives must be established. These objectives should consider the entire product range, including any additional requirements such as acoustic performance, glazing, various finishes, and performance needs.

Following the test, experts can provide documentation that extends the scope of application of the test results to cover various design options. These documents, known as assessments or Extended Application reports (EXAPs), are based on test evidence and relevant expertise. Such documentation is vital for ensuring accuracy and compliance in fire door testing.

Following the test, experts can provide documentation that extends the scope of application of the test results to cover various design options. These documents, known as assessments or Extended Application reports (EXAPs), are based on test evidence and relevant expertise.

Choose our Bespoke Fire Doors For Your Housing Project

With over 30 years of experience, we have partnered with major contractors across the social housing sector, earning a reputation for quality, clear communication, and reliable delivery. Whether for new builds or replacing existing doors, our products are fully certified and designed to meet rigorous fire door testing standards, ensuring both protection and security.

Contact our team today for more information on fire door testing or our range of bespoke fire doors., contact us today.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions on Fire Door Testing

  • How often should fire doors be checked?

    Fire doors should undergo fire door testing or inspection every six months to ensure proper operation, detect signs of damage, and maintain compliance with safety standards. High-traffic areas or locations with frequent use may require more frequent checks. Regular maintenance ensures their effectiveness in an emergency, keeping your building aligned with regulations.

  • What does the testing of fire doors include?

    The testing of fire doors includes evaluating their resistance to fire, stability, and integrity by exposing them to high temperatures. Fire door testing involves checking both sides, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and assessing the doorโ€™s ability to prevent flames and smoke from passing through. Certification by accredited bodies verifies these results.

  • Why is fire door testing important?

    Regular fire door testing is essential to ensure that fire doors perform as intended. It verifies that doors meet current safety standards, close properly, and provide the rated level of fire resistance. Effective testing helps identify any defects, wear, or damage that could compromise safety. It ensures regulatory compliance and protects both occupants and property.

  • Who can carry out fire door testing?

    Fire door testing should be carried out by qualified professionals or accredited test houses with expertise in fire safety standards. These experts use recognised procedures and certifications to assess the doorโ€™s performance, including fire resistance, hardware integrity, and overall functionality. Using accredited testers ensures that results are accurate and reliable.

  • How long does fire door testing take?

    The duration of fire door testing depends on the type and number of doors being assessed. Individual inspections can often be completed in under an hour, while full testing for certification purposes may take longer. Professional fire door testers ensure each door is thoroughly evaluated for fire resistance, functionality, and compliance with fire safety standards.