Fire door safety in your building begins with the correct specification of fire door hardware. Commercial buildings are diverse in nature, and, with that, a certain flexibility is needed when choosing door hardware. During commercial hours, fire doors and their hardware promote accessibility and protect occupants as they navigate the building; out of hours, they continue to keep buildings fire-safe and secure.
The Key to Fire Door Safety & Safe Door Closer Specification
Door closers are essential safety measures for commercial and public buildings. Where doors are used 100s of times a day, durability and reliability are key. A door closer with backcheck provides a cushioning effect when fire doors are flung open, slowing the door down to prevent damage to the door or injury to persons standing behind it. For this, we recommend:
BRITON 2003V
Spring adjustable overhead closer
- Adjustable power size EN 2-4
- Tested and certified to EN 1154 & EN 1634
- Certified for regular, transom, and parallel arm door applications
- Adjustable soft-closing speed and latch action
- CE & UKCA marked with backcheck in all applications
- Self-adhesive Accufit fitting template
- Suitable for doors up to 1100mm and 80kg
Door Closers for Heavier Fire Doors
In commercial settings, heavy-duty door closers are recommended for larger, heavier fire doors to ensure the door closes securely each time it is used. For this, we recommend:
BRITON 1120B
Spring adjustable overhead closer
- Adjustable power size EN 2-4
- Tested and certified to EN 1154 & EN 1634
- Certified for regular, transom, and parallel arm door applications
- Adjustable soft-closing speed and latch action
- CE & UKCA marked with backcheck in all applications
- Suitable for doors up to 1100mm and 80kg
BRITON 1130B
Spring adjustable overhead closer
- Adjustable power size EN 2-6
- Tested and certified to EN 1154 & EN 1634
- Certified for regular and parallel arm door applications
- Adjustable soft-closing speed and latch action
- CE & UKCA marked with backcheck in door mount pull and parallel arm applications
- Suitable for doors up to 1400 mm and 120 kg
Fire Door Safety & Restriction-Free Movement
For commercial facilities looking to foster an open environment, keeping doors open allows unrestricted movement through corridors and helps prevent fire doors from being damaged. An electromechanical hold-open closer is designed to keep fire doors open in a safe manner and is linked to the building’s fire alarm system. In the event of a fire, if power is cut, the closer firmly shuts the door into its frame. For this, we recommend:
BRITON 996
Fixed hold-open & free-swing closer
- Fixed power size EN 3, EN 4, and EN 5
- Tested and certified to EN 1154, EN 1155 & EN 1634
- Satisfies the requirements of Approved Document M
- Designed for use on low-voltage circuits 24v DC linked to a fire alarm
- Certified for regular, transom, and parallel arm door applications
- Adjustable closing speed & latch action
- Suitable for use on fire & smoke doors up to 1250mm wide and 100kg
When it comes to commercial facilities, budgets can sometimes feel all-encompassing. If your budget is tight, consider a cheaper finish for your door hardware. A silver finish is more cost-effective than stainless, and the quality of your closer and fire door safety is not compromised. For any fire-rated rebated double doorsets, you’ll also require a door co-ordinator.
Fire door safety requires correct selection, competent installation and ongoing maintenance. Clear responsibilities and up-to-date risk assessments (aligned with the Fire Safety Act 2021 and, where applicable, the Building Safety Act 2022) are essential to keep occupants safe and comply with the law.
From fire door closers and hold-open devices to hinges and exit devices, your fire door hardware should be tested and certified. Still in doubt, or in need of replacement hardware? Call us today on 0161 796 7268.
If you’re a specifier, installer or responsible for maintaining a fire door, it’s also important that you can select and fit the correct fire door hardware with the necessary level of competence. Our state-of-the-art fire door training centre offers the accredited training courses and regulated qualifications you and your team need to feel confident and remain compliant. Contact fdm.info@allegion.com and upskill your workforce today.
Don’t miss #FireDoorSafetyWeek 2026 - 21–25 September.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I select the right fire door closer? Confirm the door is fire-rated, then choose a closer with UKCA/CE certification to EN 1154 and to EN 1634, with fire testing. Match the power size to the door’s weight and height (fire doors need at least EN power size 3), choose the correct mounting style, and select adjustable settings for on-site fine-tuning.
What does backcheck on a door closer do? Backcheck slows the door as it reaches full open, cushioning the impact to protect the door, frame and anyone standing behind it. It’s handy in high-traffic or windy areas and should be adjustable and EN 1154-certified.
Can I fit an electromechanical hold-open device on a fire door? Yes, if the device is UKCA/CE marked and tested to EN 1155 and EN 1634, and it’s linked to the building’s fire alarm, so it releases and lets the door close when the alarm activates. Install and test it following manufacturer guidance and fire-safety rules.
Will choosing a cheaper finish affect fire door performance? No. The finish, silver or stainless, does not change a closer’s certified performance. Prioritise certified hardware and correct installation; the finish only affects appearance and cost.
Who should install and maintain fire door hardware? Use competent, trained installers and maintainers who understand UK standards, and maintain records of work and certificates. Keep up-to-date risk assessments aligned with the Fire Safety Act 2021 and Building Safety Act 2022 and schedule regular checks.
