The Critical Role of Locksmiths in supporting Timber Fire Door Maintenance and Repair

Timber fire doors are essential components of any building’s fire safety system. As the primary barrier against fire and smoke, they provide occupants with the vital time needed to evacuate safely and give firefighters a chance to contain the fire. Locksmiths, as security professionals, are uniquely positioned to support those responsible for fire safety by ensuring these doors function properly.

The MLA is making it easier for locksmiths to acquire essential knowledge in this area by offering a Timber Fire Door Maintenance and Repair course, taught by experts from Fire Doors Complete.

Fire Door Maintenance & Repair Course
Fire Doors Complete Website

Why Locksmiths Should be Concerned with Timber Fire Door Maintenance

Tutor, Neil Ashdown from Fire Doors Complete explains why it’s crucial for locksmiths to have knowledge of Timber Fire Doors:

The importance of this for locksmiths is that their clients will often ask them to work on timber fire doors and because of the client’s responsibility to maintain the fire doors in suitable condition, under Article 17 of the Fire Safety Order of 2005, those carrying out any alterations, maintenance and repairs need to be aware of the best practice methods that should be followed.

In the October issue of Keyways, the complimentary journal for all MLA members, Justin Freeman, Technical Manager for the Master Locksmiths Association, offers a summary of The Grenfell Report along with key fire safety reminders. He states:

By gaining some knowledge in Timber Fire Door Maintenance, locksmiths can provide an essential service that enhances safety, ensures regulatory compliance, and strengthens their professional skills, helping them to work alongside the responsible person for the building.

• Fire Safety Compliance: Timber Fire Doors must meet specific safety standards to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. Locksmiths need to understand how these doors work and ensure their components, such as locks, hinges, and seals, are properly installed and maintained to maintain their integrity.
• Professional Responsibility: As security professionals, locksmiths are responsible for installing and servicing hardware that contributes to the overall safety of a building. However, it is the responsibility of the building owner or property manager to ensure that the fire doors are correctly maintained as part of providing a comprehensive security and safety solution. This is a critical aspect of providing comprehensive security solutions, particularly in commercial or residential properties where fire doors are required by law.
• Legal Requirements: Fire door regulations and safety codes, such as those set by the Building Regulations or the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, demand that fire doors remain functional and up to code. Locksmiths who service fire doors need to be aware of these regulations and be able to provide the necessary maintenance or repairs to meet legal requirements when requested by the responsible person.
• Increased Demand and Business Growth: As fire safety regulations become more stringent, the demand for professionals skilled in timber fire door maintenance has risen. Furthermore, fire doors require specialised maintenance, particularly in terms of ensuring the correct alignment and operation of hardware like panic bars, latches, and electromagnetic locking systems. Locksmiths with knowledge of fire door maintenance can offer valuable services and expand their expertise in this niche but important area.
• Reputation and Trustworthiness: A locksmith who demonstrates a thorough knowledge of fire door safety reinforces their role as a trusted security professional. With the right training, locksmiths can not only offer security but also prioritise safety—especially in environments where compliance is critical, such as schools, hospitals, hotels, and high-rise buildings.

Key Components of Timber Fire Door Maintenance and Repair Course

• The role of the fire door. This describes the function of a fire door in terms of safety and compartmentation of the building to help keep occupiers and users safe by providing protection to escape routes and sleeping accommodation. It also covers fire door testing standards in terms of the fire ratings and requirements for restricted spread of cold smoke.
• What the law says about fire doors. In this section we look at what obligations are placed upon building operators and fire door installers and maintainers in terms of fire safety law in England & Wales.
• Certification, regulations & standards. Here we look at what building regulations apply in England & Wales to fire doors, what British Standards apply as well as related guidance and product certification.
• Inspection and maintenance requirements. This part is the main section of the training module. Here we look at inspection requirements in detail, including identifying the door as a fire door, fire doors without evidence of performance, how maintenance and repair work should be carried out and where to find details about maintenance requirements for specific door types. We also look at the individual components (ironmongery and seals etc.) that come together to make up the complete fire door assembly or door-set.
• Record keeping. This part covers records such as the door register, maintenance
• Certification: Delegates who successfully complete the course and pass the final exam will receive a certificate valid for five years.

I highly recommend this course. New legislation will make you one step ahead of the game if you compete this course. A real eye opener. 10/10. Lloyd Morgan

Fire Door Course for Locksmiths

Further training: Timber Fire Doors Inspection Course

Delegates who successfully complete the course and pass the final exam can also apply for a practical assessment, which involves inspecting and maintaining a timber fire door at the FDC training centre in Queniborough.

The completed work will be inspected by a certified fire door inspector, and if compliant, a second certificate will be issued.

This assessment usually costs £1,000 + VAT, including materials (but not tools). However, delegates who pass the Timber Fire Door Maintenance and Repair exam qualify for a discounted price of £900 + VAT.

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Recommend Reading

• Join the Master Locksmiths Association
• Why use an MLA Approved Locksmith
• Courses to become a locksmith