Fire Rating Explained

Fire Rating Explained

In the building and construction industry, fire door assemblies are utilized throughout a structure to help prevent flames, smoke and hot gases spreading from room to room to contain the effects of a large scale fire. Hardware specifically designed, or suitable, for this purpose is given a “Fire Rating” relating to its resistance to heat, smoke and its functional use in an emergency.

Doors fitted with Fire Rated door hardware are designed to allow the easiest access in the event of a quick evacuation. Fire Rated door assemblies generally consist of a door leaf, door frame, additional seals, door hardware and specialty locking facilities. When selecting lock functions for fire doors consider that doors must be easily opened from the inside without a key when used for escape purposes.

Designer Doorware does not supply fire doors to be used in a Fire Rated assembly. Fire doors are specifically designed to Australian standards to meet heat resistance and structural requirements. There are manufacturers who specialise in producing and testing Fire Rated doors.

There are a number of Australian and International Standards that Fire Rated assemblies must conform to. These standards, outlined below, describe the required testing, operation and installation procedures needed both to gain and maintain a Fire Resistance Rating.
 

Australian Standard AS 1530 - Part 4: Fire tests on building materials and structures

This standard outlines testing requirements for fire door assemblies, specifically the combustibility of materials used in the construction of fire door assemblies.  All assemblies that gain a Fire Resistance Rating must conform to these requirements:

• The fire test was developed for use by those responsible for selection of construction materials which, although not completely inert, produce only a limited amount of heat and flame when exposed to temperatures of approximately 750°C.
   

Australian Standard AS1905 - Part 1: Fire Resistant doorsets

AS1905 outlines basic operational requirements of Fire Rated doorsets in the event of a fire or emergency. The standard establishes guidelines for latching hardware and required durability designations for numerous components. Also regulated is the assistance level of automatic smoke control systems on Fire Rated hardware such as self releasing latches and door seals.

• Part 1 specifies requirements for design, construction and installation of doorsets used to protect openings in fire-resistant walls and partitions, that all components designed for use within a fire rated assembly must perform to minimum levels as set out in AS1905 Part 1, and do so in a medium to high traffic usage area for the course of its warranty life.

Some regulatory bodies require the use of lever door handles in fire rated assemblies, in place of door knobs or other such door hardware. We offer an extensive range of lever door handles which may suit your requirements.

We also have a high level of experience in scheduling and supplying Fire Rated door furniture assemblies for both residential and commercial projects. Our experienced project consultants are available to discuss the requirements of your project to ensure maximum safety and peace of mind.

For specific information or advice about products for use on fire doors, contact the manufacturer of the fire door or talk to our friendly, expert consultants on +613 9300 8888 or email us.