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When Should a Fire Door Be Replaced?

A fire door should be considered for replacement when competent assessment identifies that adjustment or component repair is not the appropriate response to its condition. Review the complete doorset and inspection evidence, then issue a defined instruction that accounts for the premises and its safety requirements.

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Diagram of when should a fire door be replaced?
Diagram of when should a fire door be replaced?

What to check

  • Inspect the leaf, surrounding frame and door gaps.
  • Consider closer operation, hinges, seals, latch and glazing together.
  • Record distortion, damage and alterations made without authorisation.
  • Match doorset identification to the relevant inspection report.

Plan the next decision

Ask the competent assessor to distinguish adjustments, repairs and full doorset replacement. A component choice must take account of the complete assembly because an isolated change can impair performance.

Confirm who may authorise the works and agree access and completion requirements. Decisions affecting safety, security or compliance need the applicable competent assessment and evidence for those premises.

Records and follow-up

Keep the instruction and findings against the door record, followed by details and evidence of work completed. Assign any residual recommendation to an owner with a due date.

Related work

Review Building Fabric alongside maintenance planning, then submit the door requirement with its location and existing inspection findings.

Source

The HSE workplace-health resource provides general context. Check current premises-specific requirements separately before relying on time-sensitive guidance for the work.

Frequently asked questions

Does a damaged fire door always need replacement?

A competent assessment should establish whether repair is suitable for the door assembly or replacement is needed. Do not assume that replacing the leaf alone resolves defects in the frame or hardware.

What should I provide before an assessment?

Give the door location, its use, known defects and any installation or product records. Photographs can help explain the issue but cannot establish fire performance.