Fire safety is of utmost importance in healthcare facilities, where the lives of patients and staff are at stake. In the event of a fire, the consequences can be catastrophic, causing damage to property and, more importantly, putting lives at risk. This is why fire rated doors are so important in UK healthcare facilities. In this article, we will discuss the relevance and importance of fire rated doors in these Setting. 

Fire doors are designed to restrict the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases, giving people more time to evacuate the building in case of a fire. These doors are made of fire-resistant materials, including steel, glass, timber, and gypsum, and are rigorously tested to ensure that they can withstand fire for a specified period, usually 30, 60, or 120 minutes. Fire doors are required to meet stringent safety standards, including BS 476 Part 22, EN 1634, and FD 30/60/120, to ensure that they can effectively prevent the spread of fire. 

In healthcare facilities, fire rated doors play a critical role in protecting patients, staff, and visitors from the dangers of fire. Fire doors are essential in preventing the spread of fire from one part of the building to another. This is particularly important in hospitals and healthcare facilities, where patients may be immobile and unable to evacuate quickly. Fire rated doors can slow down the spread of fire and give patients and staff more time to evacuate safely. 

Fire/smoke rated doors also help to contain smoke and toxic gases, which can be just as dangerous as fire. Smoke inhalation can cause serious health problems, including respiratory distress, coughing, and nausea, some patients may have health issues that exacerbate the risks caused by toxic smoke or fumes. Toxic gases can also be deadly, causing unconsciousness and even death. By preventing the spread of smoke and toxic gases, fire/smoke rated doors can help to keep patients and staff safe. 

In addition to protecting people from the dangers of fire, fire rated doors also play a key role in protecting property. Healthcare facilities contain valuable medical equipment, supplies, and records, which can be destroyed in a fire. Fire rated doors can help to prevent the spread of fire, minimizing damage to property and equipment. 

Fire rated doors are also required by law in healthcare facilities. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that all healthcare facilities must have fire safety measures in place to protect occupants from the risk of fire. This includes the installation of fire-rated doors, which must be properly maintained and inspected regularly. We would recommend as a minimum, that communal doors are inspected quarterly and once a year or best endeavor for FEDs.   

Despite their importance, fire rated doors are often overlooked in healthcare facilities. This can be due to a lack of understanding of their importance or a failure to properly maintain and inspect them. To ensure the effectiveness of fire rated doors, it is important to follow proper installation and maintenance procedures. This includes regular inspections by trained professionals, testing of the doors, and proper maintenance to ensure that they are functioning properly.  

Here at Fire Consultancy Specialists, we have BM TRADA Fire Door Maintenance certification. This is a scheme that provides independent, third-party certification for companies that provide fire door inspection and maintenance services.  

Fire rated doors are essential in healthcare facilities to protect patients, staff, and visitors from the dangers of fire. These doors are designed to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases, giving people more time to evacuate safely. Fire rated doors also help to protect property and equipment, minimizing damage in the event of a fire. Building owners and managers should ensure they follow proper installation and maintenance procedures to ensure the effectiveness of fire rated doors. By doing so, healthcare facilities can ensure the safety of their occupants and minimize the risk of fire to life and property.   

If you would like to understand more about passive fire protection in the healthcare sector you can read more here,  more about fire door surveys here or you can contact us for more information.