Fire doors have the ability to stop a fire from spreading past the door, saving lives and property. However, fire doors must be tested and inspected on an annual basis to comply with NFPA standards and to help ensure that the door will perform as it was designed in the event of a fire.
NFPA 80
NFPA 80 is the Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives. NFPA 80 requires that rolling fire doors are inspected no less than annually and that a drop test is performed every year. These inspections must be performed by a trained and certified professional.
Visual Inspection of Fire Door
Before your fire door can be tested, it must first pass a visual inspection. During the inspection, some things technicians will check for include:
- No open holes in the surface of the door
- Door clearance
- Smoke detectors
- Guides, curtain slats, end locks, bottom bar, hood assembly, and operating mechanisms are in proper working condition
- Proper installation of door components
Fire Door Drop Test
After the visual inspection of the door is completed, a drop test must be performed. During a drop test, the automatic closure system on the door is tested. The drop test is performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Starting from open, the door is dropped, and the average closing speed must be between 6” and 24” per second. The door must fully close with the bottom bar resting on the sill. After the first test, the door must be reset, tested a second time, and reset again.
When the testing and inspection is complete, you should receive a written fire door inspection and drop test report for your records along with recommendations for needed repairs and replacement. Your fire door should get a certification tag with the date of inspection and certification.
Get Your Fire Door Tested with TCGD
Twin City Garage Door provides fire door inspections and drop testing through out FDDT program. When you enroll in our FDDT program, we provide testing and inspection of your fire doors on an annual basis. We provide the documentation and reporting you need to stay in compliance with NFPA standards. To learn more about fire door drop testing or to schedule an inspection, contact us today.
