Before fitting finger guards, start by checking whether the doors are designated fire doors as highlighted in your Fire Risk Assessment or on any associated plans; these are typically marked with blue or red lines on the annotated plans. Certified fire doors should display a label along the top edge, listing key details such as the manufacturer, certificate number, serial number, and fire rating.
If a door does not have a certification label, this can make it difficult to confirm its status as a fire door or its suitability for accessories like finger guards. In such cases, you should seek further verification, such as consulting original documentation, contacting the manufacturer, or arranging for a professional to inspect and confirm the door’s fire rating. Unless you can be certain of the door’s certification and performance, avoid fitting any accessories that could alter its function.
Every compliant fire door should have a safety data sheet, which outlines exactly what accessories and hardware, including finger guards, are suitable for use with that door. All items fitted to a fire door must be installed strictly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and by a qualified installer. If a fire door lacks certification but is otherwise well maintained and passes all relevant checks, it may still be possible to add a compatible finger guard retrospectively, however, this should always be specified and carried out by a competent professional. Unauthorised alterations or incorrect fixings can reduce a fire door’s effectiveness, so only use accessories approved for the specific door in question.
Finger guards serve to prevent fingers from being trapped at door edges and do not contribute to fire safety. If finger guards are already in place, review their installation to ensure they comply with the latest industry standards and manufacturer’s instructions. Also, confirm that their presence hasn’t compromised the door’s fire protection. If you are in any doubt, especially for doors without a label, seek a professional inspection.
Not every door is a fire door! Fire doors are specifically engineered and strategically installed within buildings to contain the spread of fire between different areas. This containment not only supports the safe evacuation of the building but also provides the fire service with crucial time to tackle the incident.
F10 Fire Forms and Fire Door training at various locations across the Council
This course gives guidance on the implementation and management of fire safety measures and arrangements in the workplace. This includes outlining the necessary safety checks, inspections, and arrangements to ensure a safe and compliant working environment.
This course is £25 per delegate and 2 members of staff can attend from large schools, colleagues with a similar role are also accepted on this training. It is aimed at Premises managers, caretakers and those with fire safety responsibilities. Courses bookable via SSE:
F10 Fire Forms and Fire Door Training – 5th November 10am Yeovil
F10 Fire Forms and Fire Door Training – 5th November 2pm Yeovil
Learn more:
Finger Trapping Guidance
Training Video on the duties for the responsible person for Fire Risk Assessments
Why were fire door defects identified in your most recent fire risk assessment?
SC Fire Policy Guidance
