Is it illegal to wedge a fire door open?

Posted on July 27, 2018

If you have chosen to wedge a fire door open, the door will be prevented from closing in the event of a fire. As a result it could be ruled as having put someone’s life at risk and the case could go to court.

Although the act of wedging a fire door open isn’t illegal, the consequences of what could happen in the event of a fire could lead to significant fines and potential imprisonment for manslaughter. Wedging a fire door open renders it useless in the event of a fire, preventing it from performing its function properly; if at all.

In addition to these possible charges and penalties, an insurer may be unwilling to pay for damages if fire doors have been wedged open rather than fitted with specially designed fire safety devices.

Why do I need a fire door?

Fire doors compartmentalise fire to prevent it spreading from room to room. They are lined with a seal that expands and fills any gaps when subjected to heat. Most fire doors will hold a fire for up to 30 minutes to allow time for the fire brigade to arrive on site and take action.

If I need to keep a fire door open, how can I do this?

If you need to keep a fire door open, this can be done through the use of fire safety devices such as fire door holders or fire door closers. Whether you use a holder or a closer depends on the environment the fire door is situated in.

Our Agrippa fire door holders are ideal for hotels, hospitals and schools, where large volumes of people, potentially carrying or pushing large and awkward objects, may be passing through the doors of a corridor regularly.

The Agrippa fire door closer is ideal for care homes or office spaces, as it allows the door to be open at any angle, offering some privacy without a feeling of isolation.

If you’re not sure if a holder or closer is best for you please call us on +44 (0)1388 770 360, or contact us by clicking here, and one of our experts will be happy to advise.