How the Shift to European Testing Standards Will Impact UK Fire Doors

Current Standards: The Impact of BS 476 Part 22 on UK Fire Doors

Fire doors are legally required in all non-domestic properties, including commercial buildings, public facilities, apartment blocks, and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs). When properly used, they prevent the spread of fire within a building, safeguarding lives and providing valuable time for the fire brigade to respond.

Currently, fire doors are tested under BS 476 Part 22, a British standard introduced in 1987. This method has long been regarded as reliable and forms a key part of broader building safety regulations. It specifically addresses the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements, such as doors, shutters, and certain ducts and dampers.

While there are differences between BS 476 Part 22 and its European equivalent, EN 1634, UK manufacturers have traditionally adhered to the British standard. This preference is largely due to the high cost of testing and the lack of evidence suggesting that European standards provide superior safety outcomes, despite being more specialised.

Future Changes: The Shift to EN 1634 and Its Challenges

By 2029, the British standard will be replaced by EN 1634. This shift has raised concerns among fire safety organisations, including ASDMA, about the potential impact on the passive fire protection industry. One of the major challenges is that many fire protection products are custom-made, and the changeover will invalidate decades of testing evidence.

The transition will affect manufacturers of door cores, glazing, seals, and other ancillary components, as well as testing laboratories already struggling with high demand. Delays in testing could disrupt the construction supply chain, limiting product availability. Without timely testing of their entire product ranges, manufacturers may face reduced options for bespoke, customised fire doors.

The ripple effects extend further, impacting facilities managers (FMs) and those tasked with maintaining fire safety systems, including fire doors. Under the Fire Safety Act 2021 and Regulations 2022, building operators in England and Wales must appoint a ‘Responsible Person’ to oversee fire safety precautions. Typically, this responsibility falls to FMs, who are legally obligated to minimise fire risks and ensure safety within their premises.

Given that 85% of fire doors in the UK fail maintenance inspections, the emphasis on maintenance will increase. Historically, inspection companies have often recommended replacing non-compliant doors, despite evidence suggesting that up to 75% of them could be repaired. With replacements potentially becoming more challenging, the demand for regular inspection and maintenance is expected to rise.

Preparing for the Change: What Facilities Managers Need to Know

To navigate this transition, facilities managers need to understand how their suppliers will be affected, enabling them to make informed procurement decisions and anticipate potential product availability issues. Partnering with a BM Trada-accredited provider can help ensure the lifetime management of fire doors, including inspection, maintenance, and testing.

Maximising the lifespan of existing fire doors will become increasingly vital, as supply chain challenges may make immediate replacements more difficult. Regular maintenance and proactive planning will be essential to maintaining compliance and ensuring fire safety across properties.