A recent survey reveals worrisome gaps in UK office workers’ knowledge about fire doors.
- 34% of surveyed workers were unaware that fire doors should remain closed unless equipped with specific mechanisms.
- 75% of UK’s fire doors were found to be noncompliant with safety standards, with 31% improperly installed.
- Many workers reported inadequate fire safety training, with 35% not shown their workplace’s fire exit route.
- Incorrect fire door usage and maintenance could drastically reduce their effectiveness in an emergency.
In an alarming revelation, a survey conducted by CE Safety highlights significant gaps in understanding among UK office workers regarding the proper usage of fire doors. Despite their critical role in fire safety, 34% of respondents were unaware that fire doors should remain closed unless fitted with a self-closing mechanism or door release unit. This ignorance could pose severe risks in the event of a fire.
The survey further uncovered that a staggering 75% of fire doors across the UK do not meet the required safety standards. Compounding the issue is the fact that 31% of these doors were incorrectly installed from the outset, rendering them incapable of providing the intended protection. Gary Ellis of CE Safety expressed concern over these findings, emphasising the life-saving knowledge that should be more widely shared.
Notably, the survey underscored a lack of proper fire safety training within workplaces. Alarmingly, 35% of participants reported not being shown the fire exit route to safety in their workplace, rising to 47% among London workers, with contrasting figures of 91% in Northern Ireland and 78% in Scotland. Additionally, 41% had observed fire doors propped open, which is only permissible if equipped with a door release unit that closes in the event of an alarm.
The survey also revealed misconceptions about how fire doors should be kept when not in use. While 66% of respondents correctly identified the need for doors to be closed but not locked, a concerning 34% were mistaken, with some believing the doors could be left open or ajar. Such misunderstandings are particularly prevalent among younger workers aged 25-34.
A thorough examination of fire door components is essential for their efficacy. Elements like intumescent strips, which expand under high temperatures to prevent smoke leakage, and robust, heat-resistant materials for screws and hinges, are critical. Fire doors should be inspected biannually to ensure they are free from faults. This routine maintenance is vital to their performance in fire containment.
The survey highlights an urgent need for enhanced fire safety awareness and training among UK office workers.
