Inspections & surveys
Fire Exit Door Checks
Fire Exit Door Checks: A fire exit door check confirms that every final exit door opens easily in the direction of escape without a key, that its panic or emergency hardware works, and that the route beyond it is clear and signed.
Final exit doors are not always fire doors, but they are where every escape route ends. Seized panic bars, padlocked chains, slow-release locks without the right sign and blocked external routes are found far more often than they should be. We test each exit, fix the hardware and record the result.
What's included?
- Panic bars and push pads tested for smooth release
- Doors opened from inside without a key or special knowledge
- Emergency exit hardware suited to who uses the building
- Fire exit signage and emergency lighting presence noted
- External route from the door checked for obstructions
- Hardware repaired or replaced with suitably certified products
When do you need a fire exit door check?
- Panic hardware is stiff, damaged or has been replaced
- Exit doors have been secured with chains or extra locks
- A fire risk assessment flags final exit doors
- You are reviewing security on exits without compromising escape
What do we check or do on each door?
| Release | Opens easily from inside in the direction of escape. |
|---|---|
| Hardware | Panic (BS EN 1125) or emergency (BS EN 179) devices as suited to the users. |
| Security | No padlocks, chains or keyed locks blocking escape. |
| Route | Clear external route to a place of safety. |
How does it work?
Test
Every exit is opened from inside using its hardware.
Check
Signage, route and door condition are recorded.
Repair
Faulty hardware is repaired or replaced.
Record
Results are added to your fire safety log.
How much do fire exit door checks cost?
Per exit door checked; panic hardware supplied and fitted from around £180. Guide range £20–£45 per door, ex VAT. We confirm a fixed price once we know the building, door count and access. See all guide prices.
Which standards and law apply?
- BS EN 1125
- BS EN 179
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, article 14
- Approved Document B
Regulation 10 applies in England only. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own fire safety law; see regulation 10 explained.
Fire Exit Door Checks: questions
Do fire exit doors need panic bars?
Panic hardware to BS EN 1125 is normally used where members of the public or people unfamiliar with the building use the exit. Emergency exit devices to BS EN 179 can be suitable where users are trained staff. The fire risk assessment decides.
Can a fire exit be locked?
It must be openable from inside without a key at all times the building is occupied. Security locks that need a key from inside are not acceptable on escape routes.
Are fire exit doors fire doors?
Not always. Final exit doors to open air often are not fire-rated, but they must still open easily and be maintained.
How often should fire exits be checked?
Many responsible persons check them weekly as part of the fire log, with a detailed check at least annually.