March 24 L2 Doors Flashcards
(5 cards)
State three situations when an automatic door hold open/closure device should operate. (3
marks)
- The detection of smoke by an automatic detector
- The actuation of the fire detection/alarm system by manual means e.g. operation of break
glass call point - Any failure of the fire detection and alarm system
- Any electrical power failure.
Describe the use and operation of automatic door hold open/release devices for self-closing
fire doors. (6 marks)
These devices are designed to hold open self-closing fire doors or allow them to swing free during
normal use. In the event of a fire alarm, the device will then release the door automatically, allowing
the self-closing mechanism to close the door. Such devices are particularly useful in situations where
self-closing doors on escape routes are used regularly by a significant number of people or by people
with impaired mobility who may have difficulty in opening the doors.
Device is an electro-magnet which is released by the fire/smoke detection system
In relation to the materials used in the construction of fire resisting door leaves, identify two
different types of door leaf construction and describe the features of each type. (6 marks)
Timber:
44mm FD30
54mm FD60
Solid or hollow core
Core Construction:
Solid Core: Fire doors can have a core made of materials like particleboard, chipboard, or solid timber.
Hollow Core: Some fire doors are constructed with a hollow core design.
FD90 and 120 have a mineral core to prevent burnthrough
Steel - Industrial and high traffic
Steel Skins:
Steel fire doors typically use galvanized steel sheets for the door leaf and frame, offering strength and durability.
Fire-Resistant Core:
The core material is crucial for fire resistance, with options including mineral wool, polyurethane, or solid timber.
Reinforcement:
Internal steel strengtheners, like reinforcing channels, are used to enhance the door’s structural integrity and fire resistance.
Describe the following components of a fire door and explain how each contributes to fire
resistance:
a) Hinges (3 marks)
b) Intumescent seals (3 marks)
c) Hold open devices (3 marks)
Hinges allow the door to swing open in normal use. In fire conditions the hinges help to keep the door in the frame. Hinges must match the rating of the door and frame and use intumescent fire resisting pads
B
Intumescent seals sit in a groove on the outer edge of the door leaf. The strips expand when exposed to the heat of a fire and fill the gap between the door leaf and frame preventing the passage of flames, hot gasses and smoke. The strips must match the rating of the door
C
These devices are designed to hold open self-closing fire doors or allow them to swing free during
normal use. In the event of a fire alarm, the device will then release the door automatically, allowing
the self-closing mechanism to close the door. Such devices are particularly useful in situations where
self-closing doors on escape routes are used regularly by a significant number of people or by people
with impaired mobility who may have difficulty in opening the doors.
Hold open devices contribute to fire resistance by preventing wear and tear from continual use in busy areas. Device should match the rating of the door.
a) Explain why it is important that fire doors are installed correctly. (1 mark)
b) State five checks to be carried out prior to undertaking the installation of a fire door. (5
marks)
Correct installation of firedoors is essential to ensure that the door functions as tested. Incorrect installation can lead to failure in fire conditions putting lives and property at risk.
B
Wall type: Of suitable fire resistance for the fire door assembly or doorset
rating.
Installation Instructions: You have the relevant installation instructions from
the manufacturer.
Gap between the wall and the frame behind the architrave: You have
suitable materials and intumescent materials and mastics to fill the gap as
detailed on the installation instructions or Fire Certificate data sheet.
Door leaf: Suitable for the fire door rating. Free from damage.
LLabel/s on top of door undamaged.
Door frame: Free from damage.
Suitable for the fire door rating.
Compatible with the door assembly or doorset.
Label/s on frame (if applicable) undamaged.
Fire and smoke seals: Free from damage.
Suitable for the fire door or smoke rating.
Compatible with the door assembly or doorset.
Fixings: You have appropriate fixings for the frame, hinges, lock, latch and
other ironmongery as specified by the manufacturer.
Ironmongery: Supplied with correct intumescent pads.
Supplied with fitting instruction.
Conformity marked for fire performance where applicable.
Hinges free from damage.
Suitable for the fire door rating.
Compatible with the door assembly or doorset.
Vision panels or other apertures cut in the door leaf for ironmongery
such as letter plates or air transfer grilles: Check all ironmongery, glass,
glazing beads, seals and intumescent materials are free from damage and
secured to the door.
Label: Check door label/s in place.
Health and safety: You have carried out a thorough risk assessment of the
installation process and limited any risks.
Competency of workforce: Ensure your workforce are suitably trained
and qualified to install fire doors.
