UNDERSTANDING THE NEW FIRE DOOR INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

Based on NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives (2007 edition), documented inspections for fire-rated door assemblies are now required on an annual basis. Chapter 5, "Care and Maintenance", addresses the care and maintenance of fire doors and fire windows, both new and existing. As 5.2.1 states, "Fire door assemblies shall be inspected and tested not less than annually, and a written record of the inspection shall be signed and kept for inspection by the AHJ."

Swinging doors with builders hardware are the most common type of fire door assembly, and are among the most complex due to the myriad of materials and products that are used to create them. These assemblies often provide accessibility, security and life-safety functions in addition to their fire-safety protection, also increasing their complexity. Inspectors must thoroughly understand the dynamics of these assemblies in order to correctly evaluate them in the field.

As 5.2.3.1 indicates, "Functional testing of fire door and window assemblies shall be performed by individuals with knowledge and understanding of the operating components of the type of door being subject to testing."

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