Fire protection closures ("fire doors") are designed to prevent the spread of fire in the event of danger. Fire doors close openings that are present in fire walls, for example. The doors prevent the passage of fire for a certain, defined period of time so that
- people can be rescued via the so-called second escape route and
- the neighbouring parts of the building can be secured by the fire brigade.
Fire resistance is regulated
Taking into account the alarm times of the fire brigade, only fire-resistant doors that can withstand a fire for at least 30 minutes are used in Germany. With a fire resistance of 30 minutes, these doors are considered "fire-retardant". These doors are referred to as T30 doors indoors and are labelled with a metal plate
For special requirements, fire protection closures are used that have a fire resistance period of at least 90 minutes. These doors are "fire-resistant" and are labelled as T90 doors. These doors are also labelled with a metal plate. Fire doors always include installation and maintenance instructions.
Outside, European classifications such as EI30C2Sa already apply.
Although wood burns, wood is an ideal material for fire doors. In contrast to metal doors, wooden doors warp significantly less during a fire - an important aspect in preventing the spread of fire.
Fire doors/fire protection closures must comply with the regulations. Test certificates must comply with national specifications (for internal doors) or European regulations (external doors, windows).
Open doors = only with hold-open system
As fire protection closures can only fulfil their function when closed, they must be "self-closing" and may only be opened briefly to allow people to pass through. If, on the other hand, the doors are to be "open" most of the time, hold-open systems must be used. The hold-open system releases the door via a smoke detector if smoke is detected. The door then closes.
Fire and smoke are the greatest dangers in buildings. Whilst in the past entire villages and towns fell victim to fires, today's buildings offer a high level of safety - although this safety can never be 100%. The remaining risk can be minimised if the issue is taken very seriously - on both a small and large scale.
