FD30 & FD60 Fire Door Specifications UK

What are FD30 & FD60 Fire Doors?

FD30 and FD60 fire doors are specially designed to resist fire for a minimum of 30 minutes and 60 minutes, respectively. FD30 doors are used in residential properties, offices, and smaller commercial spaces, where the risk of fire spreading rapidly may be lower. FD60 doors, on the other hand, are often required in high-risk areas, such as larger commercial buildings, industrial settings, or public facilities where a longer evacuation time may be necessary. 

Understanding the differences between FD30 and FD60 fire doors makes sure that the correct door is installed in the correct area.

Fire Door Compliance & Legal Requirements in the UK

The regulation that primarily governs fire doors in the UK is Building Regulations Approved Document B, which sets out the safety requirements for buildings. Both FD30 and FD60 fire doors must meet specific performance standards, ensuring they provide the required level of protection in the event of a fire. 

Key compliance points include:

• Installation. Fire doors must be installed by professionals, so they perform as intended. 
• Certifications. Both FD30 and FD60 doors should carry an official certification label, which confirms they have passed the necessary tests. 
• Seals. Intumescent seals are required for all fire doors to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. These seals expand when exposed to heat, closing gaps between the door and its frame.

Why Fire Door Specifications Matter?

Fire door specifications are very, very important as they directly impact the effectiveness of fire safety measures in a building. Making sure you adhere to the correct fire door specifications can protect your property and your life.

If by any reason, the fire doors in a building happen to be non-compliant, this can result in legal and financial consequences. In addition, if a building failed to meet fire safety standards, then insurance companies are may refuse to cover the resulting damages.

Choosing the Right Fire Door for your Building

Selecting the right fire door for you and your property can make all the difference, for your safety and for legal reasons:

• Building Type. The nature of your building will direct you in the choice you make. For example, FD30 fire doors are typically found in smaller buildings with a lower fire risk. Whereas FD60, fire doors can be found in environments where there’s a higher likelihood of a fire.
• Compliance. Ensure that the fire doors you choose, comply with UK Building Regulations (specifically, Approved Document B), which outline where FD30 and FD60 doors should be used.
• Location. The position of your fire doors is also vital, as FD30 fire doors are found in less critical areas compared to FD60 fire doors.
• Cost. While FD60 fire doors offer higher levels of protection, they may come at a higher cost due to the higher costs in manufacture and materials utilised. 

See our fire doors today, we offer a bespoke range of fire doors for residential and commercial buildings.

Contact Sentry Doors Today

In conclusion, this guide has explored what FD30 and FD60 fire doors are, why they matter, the legal consequences behind them, and which ones are right for your building. At Sentry Doors, we are committed to providing certified fire doors that meet the strictest safety standards. Whether you need FD30, FD60, or custom fire door solutions, our team are here to help you choose the right products for your building’s specific requirements. 

With years of experience in manufacturing fire-rated doors and a strong reputation for reliability, we are your trusted partner in fire safety. Contact us today to discuss your project needs, get professional advice, and ensure your property is fully compliant with fire safety regulations.

Fire Door Specification FAQs

What are the specifications for a fire door?

The specifications of a fire door include its fire resistant rating, and is typically constructed with materials such as steel, timber, and glass that are resistant to flames. Proper installation and certifications are essential to ensure the fire door meets regulatory standards and provides effective protection.

What are the requirements for a FD30 fire door?

An FD30 fire door is required to provide at least 30 minutes of fire resistance in order to protect fire escape routes. FD30 fire doors should be fitted with fire rated seals around the edges, which expand in heat to close gaps. To comply with regulations, FD30 fire doors must be thoroughly tested and certified.

What is the current British standard for fire doors?

The current British standard for fire doors is BS 476-22 and BS EN 1634-1, which specify the requirements for fire resistance testing of doors and shutter assemblies. These standards make sure that fire doors are tested for their ability to contain fire and smoke for a specified duration.

How do I know if my door is fire rated?

To determine if your door is fire-rated, check for a certification label or tag, typically located on the top or edge of the door. This label will provide details such as the fire rating (e.g., FD30 or FD60) and the manufacturer’s certification.

Can anyone fit a fire door UK?

In the UK, fire doors must be installed by certified professionals to guarantee they perform optimally during the case of an emergency. While in theory, anyone can fit a fire door, however, you must follow strict guidelines in compliance with the UK laws.

What type of fire rated door do I need?

The type of fire door you need depends on several factors, including your building’s layout, usage, and fire safety requirements. FD30 fire doors offer 30 minutes of fire resistance and are commonly used in residential properties and low-risk areas. FD60 fire doors provide 60 minutes of protection and are ideal for commercial buildings or higher-risk spaces such as kitchens.