Fire Door Safety

Important Fire Door Information

What are fire doors?

Fire doors are specifically made to reduce the spread of fire and toxic smoke within a building. A ‘fire door’ is made up of the door, its frame and all the fittings like locks, handles, closers and hinges. All of these things are designed to resist fire for a certain length of time.

Why are fire doors so important? 

Fire doors are important as they protect residents from the spread of fire and smoke. Fire doors are fitted at strategic points throughout your building to ensure that residents have the best level of protection in the event of a fire. If the fire door has been damaged or altered in any way, it may not be able to stop fire and smoke from spreading and could put lives at risk.

Who is responsible for fire doors in my building? 

The University undertakes inspections of all fire doors in common areas and flat entrance doors. This is to make sure fire doors are maintained to the required standard. If you spot any problems with fire doors in your building, please report this to your Hall Office and Service Desk.

Never prop, wedge or tie open a fire door

• fire doors cannot stop the spread of fire if they are propped, wedged or tied open.

• keep fire doors shut at all times unless they are fitted with an approved 'fire door retainer'

• a fire door retainer will hold fire doors open, automatically closing them when the fire alarm sounds.

Never tamper with the fire door closer

• fire doors have to be fitted with a working fire door closer so it automatically closes after use.

• if the fire door was left open, fire and smoke would spread quickly through the building.

• fire doors can be heavy to operate but never be tempted to tamper with the closer - it could save your life.

Never alter the fire doors in any way

• if any changes are made to the fire door after it is fitted, it may not be able to stop the spread of fire and smoke.

• never screw or drill into a fire door.

• don't add letterboxes, handles, locks, or door viewers without consulting your Responsbile Person.