Fire door hinges and handles might seem like small details, but they play a big role in keeping everyone safe.
Did you know:
- Fire doors are a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. They must be inspected regularly for:
- Certification – Is the door properly certified?
- Gaps and seals – Are they intact to prevent smoke spread?
- Hinges and ironmongery – Are they secure and undamaged?
- Door closers – Do they shut fully without obstruction?
- Signage and hold-open devices – Are these compliant and functional?
The F10 Fire Forms help schools record essential checks such as:
- Weekly fire alarm tests
- Monthly emergency lighting and extinguisher inspections
- Termly evacuation drills
- Six monthly fire door inspection
Why it matters:
Fire doors stop flames and smoke spreading, giving everyone time to escape.
What should schools do now?
- Check your fire doors against the inspection points in SC’s Fire Policy Guidance.
- Use the F10 forms to keep accurate records of all checks and drills.
- Book your staff onto a Fire 10 Form and Fire Door Training session – aimed at premises managers and caretakers responsible for fire safety. This face to face course is available in Yeovil, Taunton and Bridgwater and bookable via SSE.
