Doors provide an exit in case of emergency, but also protect escape routes, keeping them free from fire or smoke. Periodic inspections ensure that they are in perfect working order if necessary. Conduct door inspections monthly and keep a record of inspections and repairs for fire safety inspectors. The regulations vary from state to state, but there are some constants that will help you prepare. Diligent inspections protect you like everyone working in the area, and a door inspection checklist helps you plan.

To access

Fire doors must be accessible to be effective, such as corridors or stairs leading to them. Doors that are blocked by large heavy objects can lead to immediate failure during an official fire safety inspection. Even the presence of small, movable objects is a violation. Fire doors must be kept free and accessible at all times, and this applies to both the exterior and the interior. Doors must be easily opened from the inside and must not require a key or mechanism.

Signs & lighting

An exit signal must be located above the fire safety door and must be illuminated. Fire doors must also be marked with signs indicating that the door should be kept closed. In addition, corridors and exits need to be illuminated so that anyone who needs to leave can see well enough to do so. Labels indicating the qualification and use of fire doors should not be removed and should be legible.

Keep closed

Doors should be kept closed because they serve to contain the smoke and prevent propagation on fire escape routes. Doors that are not closed must be equipped with mechanisms that automatically close the door if the self-closing fire alarm sounds. Inspect the area around the fire safety door to make sure that nothing locks or prevents easy opening and closing.

Hardware and door space

Check your doors for hinges, locks and seals to make sure they are intact. Broken seals can allow fumes to escape through the door. When opening or closing, the door should not rub against the frame or against other doors, carpets or floors. In the case of double doors, they must close the doors in the order that allows them to be held firmly.