TRAINING
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 .
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 . Our training takes the learner through the legal obligations , product certification , inspecting the doors and best practices concerned with maintaining and repairing them .”
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 :
“ Locksmiths should not be expected to be fire safety experts , but some knowledge of fire safety regarding doors is always an advantage to make sure someone is not asking you to do a job that could lead to an accident or prosecution .”
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 .
48
NOVEMBER 2024
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