Fire doors have a crucial role in protecting lives and properties. They reduce the spread of fire and smoke, helping to limit risk and damage. More importantly, they protect key routes for evacuation and firefighting. While the doors are significant, there are various failings with them. Luckily, the new BS 8214:2026 standard will help to improve things. Let’s have a closer look, then you can speak to us if you need to arrange fire door inspections in Saltburn.
Previous standard
The previous version of BS 8214 was from back in 2016. However, in the last decade there have been some monumental changes in fire safety requirements. This includes new legislation such as the Fire Safety Act and the Building Safety Act. As a result, it was time for an upgrade to give people relevant best practice guidance, prevent misinterpretation, and boost compliance.
One of the most notable things about the new version of BS 8214 is it finally covers different types of materials. The 2016 version only had guidance for timber fire doors. Therefore, there were gaps for steel, aluminium, and composite. The 2026 version is now extended to give codes of practice for each different material. It will help to boost the standards of manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
Smoke control
Another key update in BS 8214:2026 is the new up to date guidance on smoke control. It is one of the main goals with fire doors, preventing smoke from spreading rapidly through a property. However, the previous version of the standard had recommendations that were tricky to meet. The advice is much clearer now, especially in terms of using seals effectively to prevent the spread of smoke. Talk to us to arrange fire door inspections in Saltburn.
A key thing here is there are also clearer details about what to do to seal the interface between fire doors and their surrounds. It even goes as far as to explore potential materials that can be used. Ultimately, it will help people to make the right choices to seal doors and ensure smoke won’t get through gaps around the frame.
What does it mean for end users?
If you own a building, are responsible for it, or are designing one, it’s important to look at BS 8214:2026. It gives clear guidance on what to do regarding fire doors. This in turn means you can make the right decisions in terms of what type of doors to choose and seals. Crucially, it details what kind of evidence you need to show that you comply with the fire safety legislation.
Ask us about fire door inspections in Saltburn
Interestingly, BS 8214:2026 will also have an impact on fire door inspections. It should hopefully make it easier because doors will be less likely to have issues. It includes requirements for maintenance too. Again this should help to ensure they perform effectively and reduce the chance of non-compliant doors.
If you need to arrange fire door inspections in Saltburn or other parts of Teesside, you can rely on us. We’ve got competent people and work with clients to ensure fire safety. Most importantly, we can check doors to make sure they are compliant, looking for common issues like door closers and seals.
So, get in touch today and arrange services that can save lives.
