Fire doors are a critical part of a building’s passive fire protection system, designed to contain fire and smoke, protect escape routes, and ultimately save lives. But for a fire door to do its job, it must close fully and securely every time. If it doesn’t self-close properly, that protection is compromised.
In this blog, we’ll explain why self-closing fire doors are essential, what causes them to fail, and what the legal implications are under UK fire safety law. Whether you’re a landlord, facilities manager, or business owner, understanding this issue is key to staying compliant and keeping people safe.
Why Fire Doors Must Self-Close
A fire door is only effective when it’s shut. Its purpose is to:
-
Hold back flames and smoke, protecting escape routes
-
Buy time for evacuation and fire service response
-
Prevent fire from spreading into protected areas, such as stairwells or corridors
In most buildings, fire doors are fitted with self-closing devices, such as overhead closers or concealed mechanisms, to ensure they close automatically after being opened.
If the door doesn’t close fully, it leaves a gap through which smoke and fire can pass. In some cases, the door may be left wide open, rendering it completely useless in an emergency.
Real-World Consequences of a Non-Closing Fire Door
When a fire door fails to self-close:
-
Smoke spreads faster, often unnoticed until escape routes are compromised.
-
Fire can leap between compartments, accelerating damage and endangering lives.
-
Escape routes may become unusable, especially in flats or HMOs where stairs are the only way out.
-
Firefighting operations become more dangerous, as uncontrolled fire can block access points.
Numerous fatal fires have involved fire doors that were propped open, faulty, or failed to close automatically. Many of which could have been prevented with regular checks and maintenance.
What Causes Fire Doors to Stop Self-Closing?
Several common issues can prevent a fire door from closing properly:
-
Damaged or poorly adjusted door closers
-
Incorrect installation (e.g. door binds on the floor or frame)
-
Worn hinges or warped doors
-
Build-up of paint around seals or hinges
-
Foreign objects or door wedges
-
Door held open without an approved hold-open device
Even a slight obstruction, like a loose mat or swollen frame, can interfere with self-closing action.
Legal Responsibilities in the UK
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the ‘Responsible Person’ (typically the landlord, building owner, employer, or managing agent) is required to:
-
Ensure that fire doors function correctly
-
Maintain fire safety systems and components
-
Carry out regular fire risk assessments
-
Keep fire doors free from obstruction or damage
In residential settings, especially HMOs and purpose-built flats, self-closing fire doors are mandatory in:
-
Flat entrance doors (that open onto communal areas)
-
Protected corridors and stairwells
-
Certain high-risk internal doors (e.g. kitchens)
As of 2022, the Fire Safety (England) Regulations also require regular fire door checks in buildings over 11 metres in height.
How to Check if a Fire Door Self-Closes Properly
You can carry out a simple test:
-
Open the door fully, then let go.
-
The door should close fully under its own power and latch shut.
-
It should not slam, stick, or bounce open.
-
There should be no gaps over 4mm around the frame (especially at the top and sides).
If the door doesn’t meet these conditions, it needs to be repaired, adjusted, or replaced immediately.
Don’t Rely on Wedges or Door Stops
It’s common to see fire doors held open by a bin, hook, or wedge for convenience, ventilation, or accessibility. But this is illegal unless you’re using a certified hold-open device that releases the door during a fire alarm activation.
Only approved solutions like electromagnetic retainers or Dorgard-type devices are permitted, and even then, they must be:
-
Connected to the fire alarm system
-
Maintained and tested regularly
-
Installed in accordance with BS 7273-4
How to Stay Compliant
-
Test door closing action as part of monthly fire safety checks
-
Train staff and caretakers on what to look for
-
Include door closers in maintenance contracts
-
Document inspections and repairs in your fire safety logbook
-
Replace damaged closers or ill-fitting doors without delay
A properly closing fire door may seem like a small thing, but in a fire, it could be the difference between containment and catastrophe.
Final Thoughts
Fire doors are a passive safety measure that requires active attention. If your fire door doesn’t self-close, it isn’t a fire door; it’s just a door. And when seconds count, that failure can cost lives.
Take the time to check that every fire door in your building closes fully and reliably, and if not, take action.
Contact Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy on 07585 896648 for expert advice on fire protection and prevention measures.