If you are the owner of a new or existing building, you need to read up on your responsibilities regarding the use of fire doors. There are a number of regulations which will influence the way fire doors should be utilised in buildings across the UK.

For new buildings – or those which include alterations, extensions or change of use – there are also Building Regulations that apply.

Existing buildings are governed by the requirements of the ‘Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order: 2005’ – also known as the RRO or FSO.

Building owners should also take note of the ‘Regulation 38 of the Building Regulations (England and Wales)’ which links the Building Regulations to the RRO for those buildings to which the RRO applies.

New Buildings

For all new builds in the UK, Building Regulations are set out so that construction meets the minimum standards required for Approved Documents.

All new buildings must be fitted with fire doors; they are functional items which makes them necessary in all buildings and structures to ensure the safety of anyone who steps foot within that building. They are also equipped to help meet regulations such as sound, accessibility, ventilation, thermal efficiency and safety glazing as well as fire safety.

Existing Buildings

Over 70 pieces of fire safety law were replaced in 2006 through the ‘Regulatory Reform Order 2005’.

Under the FSO, the responsible person of any non-domestic building; including common parts of flats and houses of multiple occupation, must carry out fire safety risk assessments and implement and maintain a fire management plan. Fire doors play an important part in fire safety in all buildings covered by the FSO and it is important that they are inspected and maintained regularly to avoid non-compliance.

If you are unsure about your responsibilities for a building that you own, more information can be found online. Visit Sheridan Doors for fire doors and roller shutters in Manchester.