Those items performing a role essential to the successful operation of the fire-resisting doorset, hinges, closing devices, latches or
locks - should be chosen for their ability to cope with the type of
use to which the door will be put. If hinges collapse, a door closer weakens, or a latch wears badly, it is unlikely that the door will
maintain its essential self-closing function. This, of course, will defeat the main purpose of the fire door, and the safety of people
and property is put at risk.

Door hardware is available to meet a variety of performance and durability levels, and selection of appropriate products will save on maintenance costs and, when put to the ultimate test, will save
lives. As from (November) 2005, BS EN 14600 becomes an
established Standard. This Standard requires a minimum cycling (durability) of 200 000 cycles prior to the fire-resistance test.
Although not obligatory it will seek to establish the efficiency and safety of installation of fire-resisting door assemblies.

Similarly, door hardware on emergency exit doors has to permit the occupants of a building to make their escape safely to a place
outside the building. The exact functional requirements will vary
according to the circumstances and must be decided on the basis of a risk assessment. However, the building hardware, particularly the hinges and the escape/panic devices, must always have
sufficient strength and durability to remain effective for an economically reasonable working life under the prevailing
conditions. Failure of the building hardware to perform properly when required could result in occupants being injured while
attempting to escape, or even trapped, with potentially fatal consequences.

1.4.1 Relevant Legislation

1.4.1 The Building Regulations - Approved Document B - Fire safety (2000 edition with 2002 amendments)

1.4.2 Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 – Non-domestic Handbook Section 2 – Fire (2005)

1.4.3 Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 - DFP Technical Booklets E: 1994/2005 - Fire Safety

1.4.4 Building Standards – Technical Guidance Document Part B (2006) – Republic of Ireland

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Section 1 - Introduction