Fire Doors: Why an EI 60 or EI 90 Label Is Not Enough

Author: Fikret KIR – FK SOLUTION Fire Engineering & Consultancy

Content type: English Knowledge Centre / Technical Article

Fire doors are frequently specified only by a performance label such as EI 60 or EI 90. That is not enough to demonstrate that the installed door will achieve the intended performance. Fire resistance belongs to the tested/classified doorset configuration, not to the leaf in isolation.

The frame, hinges, locks, panic hardware, closer, seals, glazing, fixings, installation gaps and supporting wall construction can all affect performance. A change made during procurement or installation can move the installed door outside the scope of the tested/classified system.

European fire-door classifications commonly reference EN 13501-2 together with the relevant fire-resistance test methods. Project teams should verify the classification report and scope rather than relying on a sales label alone.

What Must Be Checked

• Door leaf
• Frame
• Hinges
• Lock / panic hardware
• Door closer
• Intumescent and smoke seals
• Glazing and glazing system
• Fixings
• Wall-to-frame interface
• Permitted size / leaf configuration
• Installation gaps and threshold details

Test Report vs Classification / Scope

A test report records the performance of a specific tested specimen. Classification and approval documentation define the performance class and, together with the applicable scope/extended application, the configurations for which the evidence may be used. Project procurement should verify that the actual door falls within that scope.

Common Site Failures

• Closer removed or disabled
• Door wedged open
• Unapproved glazing replacement
• Different hardware installed
• Oversized perimeter gaps
• Missing seals
• Incorrect frame fixing
• Compartment wall discontinuity around the opening

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any EI 90 door be installed in any EI 90 wall?

No. The supporting construction and installation details should be compatible with the tested/classified doorset configuration.

Can a fire door be held open?

Only using an appropriate release arrangement that allows the door to close automatically under the required fire-alarm condition.

Can hardware be changed after approval?

Only where the replacement remains within the permitted evidence/scope for the doorset.