FIRE RATED DOORS PERTH

Fire doors are not your typical doors; they are integral, life-saving features of a building’s passive fire protection system, designed specifically to minimise the spread of fire across different sections of a building. Their role extends beyond mere segregation; they also facilitate safe movement between spaces, all while serving as an effective barrier against fire, thereby creating a window of opportunity for evacuation and fire services to intervene.

Contrasting standard doors, fire doors are uniquely engineered to withstand and slow down the progression of fire between compartments within a building. Comprising a fire-resistant core and often complemented by steel plating, these doors are designed to remain closed or securely latched. Tolerances for gaps must be strictly adhered to, and all components need to be fully operational, complete with appropriate signage. A critical distinction is that fire doors and frames carry corresponding tags displaying their level of fire resistance and the manufacturer’s details.

One of the most critical aspects of fire door legislation is the Fire Resistance Level (FRL). The FRL is a measure of a structure’s ability to resist the spread of fire, expressed in minutes for three criteria: structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation.

• Structural adequacy is the ability of a tested structure to support a defined load in fire conditions. It must be noted that this is typically applied to wall systems, not a door set, which is not designed to bear load.
• Integrity measures the tested assembly’s effectiveness in preventing the movement of flame and hot gases, although it does not account for smoke leakage.
• Insulation evaluates the increase in temperature on the non-exposed side, or the side away from the fire, of a fire-resistant separating barrier.

The required FRL for a fire door depends on the building’s classification and the door’s specific location within the building.

According to AS 1905.1-2015, fire doors must be constructed using materials and methods that meet specific requirements. This includes using fire-resistant materials for door leaves, frames, and hardware. Solwest’s fire doors are designed and manufactured in compliance with these standards, ensuring optimal performance in the event of a fire.

Proper Installation for Compliance:

Proper installation is crucial for fire door compliance. Fire doors must be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, AS 1905.1-2015, and BCA requirements. This includes ensuring correct clearances around the door, the use of appropriate hardware, and the installation of fire seals.

Certification and Labelling:

Every fire door has to undergo testing and receive certification from a recognised lab, ensuring that they adhere to the necessary FRL and other performance specifications. 

Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for fire door compliance and performance. AS1851-2012 covers the routine servicing of fire protection systems, including fire-resistant doors. Inspections, maintenance, and reporting must comply with these standards and be performed by qualified technicians. Factors like frame installation issues, building movement, and floor level variations can lead to fire door maintenance or repair needs.

In Australia, two significant types of fire-resistant doors are particularly noteworthy: the BFR (Bush Fire Resistant) Door and the Fire Rated Door. They serve different primary functions and have distinct characteristics.

Purpose:

• BFR Door: Essential for homes in bushfire-prone zones, these doors resist intense heat and embers associated with bushfires, providing a barrier against flames and a safe exit for residents during a bushfire.
• Fire Rated Door: These doors impede the spread of fire and smoke within a building, especially in commercial and high-density residential settings, providing a critical barrier that allows occupants time to evacuate.

Construction and Materials:

• BFR Door: These doors, constructed with non-combustible materials, can withstand extreme bushfire conditions. They generally feature seals to block embers and are typically thicker than standard doors.
• Fire Rated Door: Built with layers of fire-resistant materials such as gypsum, ceramic, and steel, these doors have an insulating and fire-retardant core. Their fire rating indicates their resistance to fire over time.

Standards and Regulations:

• BFR Door: These doors must comply with Australian Standard AS3959, detailing construction requirements for buildings in bushfire-prone areas. The BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating system in the standard provides guidance on the resistance required for doors based on bushfire risk.
• Fire Rated Door: Governed by Australian Standard AS1905.1 and the National Construction Code (NCC), these doors follow detailed methods for fire-resistant doors and assemblies.

Aesthetic and Design:

• BFR Door: While designed primarily for safety, advancements in technology have enabled BFR doors to be aesthetically pleasing and suitable for various architectural styles.
• Fire Rated Door: Generally sporting a more industrial look, especially in commercial settings, designers are now creating fire-rated doors that blend seamlessly with the aesthetics of modern homes and buildings.