Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk THE door industry journal summer 2024 Doorsets, Fire Doors, Safety & Security Certified professionals can demonstrate the right skills, knowledge and experience when installing fire door systems and will remove any questions surrounding competence and compliance. Reducing the gaps During installation, decision-makers must also look to follow manufacturer guidelines and fitting instructions. Door hardware products are often unique to the manufacturer, with distinctive components, fittings and fixing points and as a result, they should never be approached as like-for-like installation projects. Fire door integrity is frequently compromised by alignment issues and improper installation methods as a result of this knowledge gap. In many cases, an appropriately specified and perfectly operational door closer device can be found ineffective, solely as a result of poor installation. Consequently, a fire door may not be able to latch or close fully from its standing position, leaving gaps large enough for smoke and fire to pass through in an emergency situation. With this in mind, it’s important for responsible persons to plan ahead, appreciating that door hardware installation is a specialised task. To further raise fire safety standards and improve installation accuracy, there’s a wealth of information and detailed walkthroughs made available from conscious manufacturers in the form of installation templates, product datasheets and video guides. Guidance can usually be found online, with product packaging, or can be requested directly from the manufacturer and is designed to support installers throughout a project whilst also reducing installation time and enhancing the life of the installed hardware. Product information and installation guidance can also be useful post-installation. Where a responsible person is required to perform ongoing checks and regular maintenance periods as part of their obligations, some fixing instructions may assist in scenarios when hardware adjustments are required. Fire door hardware installation is neither the first nor final step of fire door safety, but in an evolving regulatory landscape, where we’re seeing a cultural shift in fire safety accountability, responsible persons would be remiss to undervalue the significance of accurate hardware installation. Ultimately, when it comes to fire safety compliance, competence and education go hand in hand. For more, visit www.allegion.com 109
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