fire door regulations

[blokedownpub]

Hi,

I live in a block of 12 flats built in the early 1970s. Myself and the other occupants of the flats are looking to replace our front doors that open out into a corridor/stairwell (as they now look very dated).

The question I have is, what are the regulations here? I've had a hunt around on the web but cant find any info on fire regulations regarding this. I would assume that they would have to meet some fire safety standards as the stairwell is the only means of escape for the flats at the top of the building. Is this the case, and if so, would the doors have to hold back fire for 1 hour?

Also, for us to be able to change the doors would we be required to get a buildings inspector in?

Thanks in advance, Gavin.

[Tony Bryer]

Probably half-hour. Generally you also have half-hour doors separating the inner hall (which is assumed to present next to no fire risk) from the rooms within the flat.

If you talk to a specialist door supplier, they should be able to offer you various options that will meet the required standards, but do not be tempted to take the view that it's a load of red tape. As you say, the assumption is that in the event of a fire the stairwell will provide a safe route of escape from the upper floors.

[nightjar]

I was under the impression that stairwells needed to have 2 hour fire resistance. That may, however, depend upon the number of floors.

Colin Bignell

[blokedownpub]

I don't suppose you could point me in the direction of where I can find the information on the regulations for door fire resistance?

Thanks, Gavin.

[nightjar]

You want a copy of Building Regulations Approved Document B - Fire Safety. Your local reference library should have a copy.

Colin Bignell

[dg]

Build Regulations are not retrospective. As this is maintenance, you only have to replace like-for-like, and not upgrade to todays standards. You do not have to involve building control for this work.

Having said that, it would be a good idea to upgrade if cost is not prohibitive.

I would suggest a one hour rated door, with a self closing device and intumescent and smoke strips to the door edge or frame, and also an intumescent letter box.

dg

[Tony Bryer]

They're all online for free download: