Risk-based action
Which defects should be dealt with first?
A door that cannot close, is wedged open, has severe damage or fails to protect a critical escape route may require urgent action. Priority should reflect people at risk, evacuation strategy, door location, credible fire spread and available interim controls—not a generic defect count.
Make the immediate area safe, preserve escape, and record temporary arrangements while competent repair or replacement is arranged.
| Finding | Immediate question | Follow-up |
|---|---|---|
| Door cannot close or latch | Is the barrier currently ineffective? | Control use and arrange prompt diagnosis |
| Damage to leaf, frame or glazing | Could retention or integrity be affected? | Obtain evidence-led repair or replacement scope |
| Missing or uncertain component | Was it required by the doorset design? | Check records and compatibility |
| Minor wear or decoration | Is function or evidence affected? | Plan proportionate maintenance and monitor |
Compatible work
What makes a fire-door repair suitable?
A suitable repair identifies the original or defensible specification, uses compatible products and methods, remains within the relevant field of application and is completed by a person competent for the task. Filling damage with ordinary materials or replacing hardware by appearance alone is unreliable.
Some damage can be repaired under an approved method; other damage requires a new leaf or complete doorset. The decision should be recorded rather than hidden by paint or filler.
- Door identity and intended performance established
- Repair method supported by product or specialist evidence
- Replacement components compatible
- Work photographed and recorded
- Door retested after repair
Ongoing management
How should a maintenance programme work?
Combine frequent user or caretaker observations with periodic competent inspection at a depth appropriate to risk. Use unique door IDs, assign actions, set risk-based dates and track repeat defects.
Where doors repeatedly fail through misuse, pressure, heavy traffic or access needs, address the underlying building and operational cause rather than repeatedly adjusting the same component.