Fire Door Safety Week: Why Fire Doors Matter More Than You Think

Fire Door Safety Week (22–26 September 2025) shines a spotlight on the vital role fire doors play in protecting lives and property. This year’s theme — “A False Sense of Safety” — challenges assumptions and encourages everyone to check and report fire door issues.

With research showing that nearly half the public trust fire doors to be fit for purpose, while over half admit they don’t know where to find fire safety information, the campaign couldn’t be more relevant.

Why Fire Doors Are Crucial

Fire doors are a life-saving barrier. Their primary function is to contain fire and smoke, creating fire compartments that slow spread and provide:

• 30 or 60 minutes of rated protection (FD30/FD60)
• Vital time for safe evacuation
• Better conditions for firefighters to control the blaze

Common Problems We See

• Fire doors propped open
• Damaged frames, intumescent/smoke seals or glazing
• Improper repairs that compromise performance
• Poor installation or uncertified doors in high-risk areas

Any one of these faults can render a fire door ineffective in an emergency — exactly the false sense of safety this campaign warns against.

Regular Inspections Matter

Fire door inspections are quick and non-disruptive. A competent professional checks both sides of each door, leaf, frame, seals, hinges, glazing, signage and closing devices. Where appropriate, an architrave survey assesses fire stopping around the frame. At worst you may need minor making-good/painting.

How PROHAS Can Help

• Competent, independent fire door compliance surveys
• Clear, prioritised action plans and photographic evidence
• Practical, cost-effective fixes and re-inspection options

Combine this with a Fire Risk Assessment to ensure your wider strategy is robust and compliant.

Tags: fire doors, fire safety, fire risk assessment, compliance, workplace safety