Introduction:
Fire doors are a critical component of building safety, designed to compartmentalise fire and smoke, allowing occupants to evacuate safely and providing time for emergency responders to control the situation. However, despite their importance, one common and dangerous practice persists – “wedging fire doors open.” In this article, we delve into the significance of fire doors and why wedging them open undermines safety measures.
Most fire doors are kept closed at all times, however some doors are held open with specialty electromagnetic hold open devices and will shut automatically upon the activation of a smoke detector, fire alarm system, or sprinkler system. These are mostly found in Health, Aged Care & Education projects.
The movement (opening and closing) of a fire door must never be impaired by a door wedge/chock, magnetic door stop or other obstacle. The use of items in this manner is prohibited and will incur a penalty.
The Purpose of Fire Doors:
Fire doors serve as barriers against the spread of fire and smoke within a building. They are specially constructed to withstand high temperatures and prevent flames and toxic fumes from moving freely through a structure. By compartmentalising for fire, these doors help contain the blaze, limiting damage to property and, more importantly, saving lives.
Importance of Proper Functioning:
For fire doors to fulfil their purpose effectively, they must remain closed at all times, except when someone passes through them. Even a small gap or a few seconds of delay in closing can compromise their effectiveness. Properly functioning fire doors act as a barrier, preventing the rapid spread of fire and smoke, allowing occupants to evacuate safely and providing firefighters with manageable conditions to contain the fire.
Risks Associated with Wedging Fire Doors Open or Utilising Hold Open Devices
Wedging fire doors open might seem harmless or convenient, especially in busy environments where people frequently pass through. However, this practice poses significant risks:
a) Compromised Compartmentalisation: By propping fire doors open, the intended barrier against fire and smoke is eliminated. This allows flames and toxic gases to spread rapidly, putting occupants at greater risk of injury or death.
b) Impaired Evacuation Routes: Open fire doors can obstruct evacuation routes, hindering occupants’ ability to escape quickly during an emergency. In a chaotic situation, every second counts, and blocked pathways can lead to tragic consequences.
c) Legal and Regulatory Violations: Wedging fire doors open is in violation of fire safety regulations and building codes. Building owners and managers can face legal repercussions for non-compliance, including fines and potential liabilities in the event of accidents.
d) Wedging fire doors open or utilising non-compliant hold open devices leads to significant damage, often necessitating full replacement. This practice causes doors to bow and twist, rendering them non-compliant with safety standards. The resulting misalignment compromises their ability to effectively contain fire and smoke. Moreover, it obstructs evacuation routes, increasing the risk to occupants’ safety. Incurring such damage not only compromises building safety but also entails considerable costs for repairs or replacements. Thus, it is imperative to refrain from wedging fire doors open to ensure their proper functioning and uphold fire safety standards.
Addressing the Issue:
To mitigate the risks associated with wedging fire doors open, it is essential to implement proactive measures:
a) Education and Awareness: Raise awareness among building occupants about the importance of fire doors and the dangers of wedging them open. Regular training sessions and informational campaigns can help reinforce safety protocols.
b) Enforcement of Policies: Enforce strict policies prohibiting the wedging open of fire doors. Implement regular inspections and disciplinary measures for non-compliance to ensure adherence to safety regulations.
Conclusion:
Fire doors are not just ordinary doors; they are a crucial element of building safety infrastructure. Wedging them open compromises their ability to contain fire and smoke, putting lives and property at risk. By understanding the importance of fire doors and adhering to safety protocols, we can create safer environments for everyone. Remember, fire safety never takes a holiday, when it comes to fire safety, every closed door could make a lifesaving difference.
