A New Chapter in Fire Door Compliance: What Issue 5 of the Code of Practice Means for You
- Alex Mamas
- Jul 9
- 4 min read
In the wake of continued scrutiny around fire safety and building performance, it's no surprise that the hardware sector is under the spotlight. And rightly so. Doors – and the hardware fitted to them – play a crucial role in life safety. This month, a new chapter begins with the publication of Issue 5 of the Code of Practice for Hardware for Fire and Escape Doors by the DHF and GAI.
At Poole Waite, we see this as more than just an update – it's a reset of expectations across the specification, installation, and ongoing care of fire-resisting and escape door hardware. Whether you're an architect, contractor, facilities manager, or duty holder, this revised guidance brings sharper clarity, renewed focus, and, above all, practical alignment with the new regulatory environment.
What’s Changed – and Why It Matters
The new Code replaces all previous editions and consolidates decades of guidance into a single, coherent document aligned with modern legislation – including the Building Safety Act 2022 and changes to Approved Document B.
One of the most significant updates is the shift towards the EN 1634-1 fire testing standard. This reflects a clear move away from the longstanding BS 476 tests. The transition in England will complete by September 2029, giving the industry a five-year runway to prepare. But for those of us responsible for compliance, the work starts now.
What’s also notable is the emphasis placed on third-party certification – not only of hardware but of its installation, documentation, and durability. This is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about proving performance under real-world conditions.
Hardware Is Not Just Hardware
A door closer that doesn’t close. A hinge that collapses under heat. A latch that compromises smoke control. These aren’t just technical failings – they’re life safety risks.
The Code lays out, in plain terms, what’s essential and what’s optional – and critically, what can jeopardise the integrity of a fire door. For example:
Hinges must comply with EN 1935 and demonstrate endurance and fire resistance – and rising butt or spring hinges are explicitly discouraged.
Closers must meet EN 1154 and be matched to door mass, latch force and accessibility needs.
Electromechanical systems must prove both secure locking and safe egress – a balance that’s easy to get wrong without the right data.
It’s also clear that improper installation – such as oversize fixings, unsealed cable holes, or incompatible intumescent protection – can undo even the best product choices.
Implications for Architects and Specifiers
If you're working with new-build or refurbishment projects, this Code is a vital reference point. It offers practical clarity on selecting compliant hardware for both fire doors and escape routes – while maintaining accessibility under the Equality Act.
We recommend taking this opportunity to review existing specifications and ensure that all products – and their supporting test data – remain current and compatible with the door types being used.
For Facilities Managers and Duty Holders
The Code reinforces the legal responsibility to maintain hardware in full working condition. It also underscores the importance of traceability: installation instructions, maintenance regimes, and up-to-date documentation all form part of your compliance picture.
In other words: fitting the right hardware is only half the job. Keeping it operational is just as important.
Poole Waite’s Take on the new Fire Door Compliance Code
As trusted advisors in the specification of architectural ironmongery, we welcome the clarity and depth this new guidance brings. For too long, hardware has been seen as a minor detail. This Code reminds us it’s anything but.
If you don’t have time to read the full document, here’s what you need to know:
Only use hardware that’s tested to EN 1634-1 (especially as we move away from BS 476 standards)
Essential items like hinges, closers and locks must carry third-party certification – and be installed exactly as tested
Access control and mechatronic hardware must guarantee both secure locking and fail-safe egress
Installation quality and documentation matter as much as the product itself – poor fixings or unsealed holes can void fire certification
Regular maintenance and record-keeping are now a core part of compliance – not optional
Our team is already working with clients to update specifications and carry out site audits aligned with Issue 5. If you're responsible for fire door performance – from design to handover or ongoing maintenance – we’re here to help.
Final Word
Issue 5 of the Code of Practice for Hardware on Fire and Escape Doors isn’t just another document on fire door compliance – it’s a call to act, to raise the bar, and to put safety and certainty at the heart of every door decision.
Let’s open that door.
Need help navigating the new Code? Contact the Poole Waite team for tailored guidance, Fire Door & Equality Act Compliant Ironmongery CPDs, or to review your hardware specifications.
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