Core assembly
Leaf, frame, stops and wall interface
The door leaf, frame material, frame dimensions, stops, fixings and the surrounding supporting construction influence performance. The frame-to-wall gap normally requires a suitable installation detail; decorative architrave is not evidence that the concealed interface is sound.
Door thickness or a solid core may be clues, but neither establishes the rating. Certification marks, schedules, test or assessment evidence and competent inspection should be considered together.
- Leaf identity and condition
- Compatible frame and stops
- Secure fixings and sound wall interface
- Permitted perimeter and threshold gaps
- Evidence for any repair or alteration
Operational hardware
Hinges, closers, latches and locks
Hinges must support the leaf and remain suitable under fire conditions. A closer should shut the door reliably without making it unusable. Where the tested arrangement relies on latching, the latch must engage. Locks, panic devices and access-control hardware must not undermine escape or the doorset.
Items should be compatible with the relevant evidence and installed with the correct fixings, protection and preparation. Unauthorised drilling or oversized recesses can damage the leaf.
Hinges
Quantity, grade, fixings, wear and compatibility matter.
Closer
Must close from foreseeable positions and overcome latch resistance.
Latch or lock
Should secure as designed without preventing escape.
Access control
Must fail and release in accordance with the escape strategy.
Seals and apertures
Seals, glazing, letter plates and grilles
Intumescent seals expand under heat; smoke seals limit ambient smoke leakage where required. Glazing uses a complete compatible system, including glass, beads and glazing seals. Letter plates, viewers and transfer grilles create apertures and therefore need evidence for the door and rating.
Do not assume a component is suitable merely because it is marketed as fire rated. Its permitted size, location, orientation and surrounding construction must match the intended application.