Buildings and facilities alike use Fire Rated Door Labels to ensure fire code compliance. Parts may become deficient due to constant wear and tear from daily use. Unfortunately, there is too much damage caused by deficiencies in proper fire safety.
A shocking statistic by the NFPA shows that, “U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 5,750 structure fires in health care properties per year in 2011– 2015. These fires caused annual averages of two civilian deaths, 157 civilian injuries, and $50.4 million in direct property damage.”
To help guarantee complete safety; every part of the fire door must work perfectly during an unexpected emergency. To ensure personal safety the NFPA 80 has created a list of requirements for fire door inspections. Fire rated labels are a major requirement for fire doors.
NFPA 80 – Standard for Fire Rated Doors Labels:
4.2.1 – Listed items shall be identified by a label.
4.2.2 – Labels shall be applied in locations that are readily visible and convenient for identification by the AHJ after installation of the assembly.
To see the full list of requirements, please visit the list here. Alternatively, you can contact us at the bottom of the page and we will be happy to discuss your fire rated door label needs.
Every fire door must have a fire rated label that is legible for the duration of the door. These fire rated labels prove that the openings and frame have been tested and met the required standards. These fire rated door labels are usually made with metal, paper or plastic materials. Sometimes, the label is printed right onto the door itself. The fire door label contains important information about that specific fire door and frame. Here is what the fire rated door label includes:
- Manufacturer information
- Fire-Resistance rating
- If the opening needs to be furnished with exit hardware
- If the door has a temperature rise rating
- If it is a smoke door assembly
- Sometimes includes a number to contact the manufacturer
Each fire door and frame label provides AHJs, which is a building owners or inspectors’ proof that the fire doors and door assemblies have been properly inspected and tested. Unfortunately, painted or missing labels are one of the top reasons for deficiencies. If the label is missing or has been painted over, then there is no proof that the door was inspected and meets the required standards, which puts everyone in the building at risk.
The importance of fire rated door labels is simple… a proper label can save lives, prevent injuries, and lessen property damage in case of a fire. Stay NFPA 80 compliant with fire rated door labels that prove your facility or building is safe for everyone who enters.
LSS Life Safety Services® is ANAB/ ISO 17020 Certified to provide Field Verification of Fire Resistance ratings to re-label fire door assemblies.
