Fire protection doors are of central importance for preventive fire protection in buildings: in the event of a fire, they protect special rooms, necessary corridors and hall transitions against the passage of flames, heat and smoke. Other elementary tasks include the safe use of escape and rescue routes and keeping access routes clear for the emergency services. To fulfill their purpose, fire doors and gates must be self-closing. This means that they must be closed again every time they are passed through.
Hold-open systems (FSA) as problem solvers in everyday life
Closing doors and gates yourself is impractical in day-to-day operations: forklift trucks need to be able to move freely, and copy rooms, kitchenettes and corridors should be accessible without having to open doors. Constantly opening and closing doors is a nuisance. This is why fire doors and gates are often overridden - wedged, tied or blocked with a box of copy paper.
These manipulations are not only life-threatening and illegal, but also punishable by law (§ 145 Para. 2 No. 2 StGB).
The solution is hold-open systems for fire doors!
What is a hold-open system?
A hold-open system for fire doors (also known as an FSA for short) keeps them open during daily operation. In the event of a fire, it ensures that fire doors close automatically and thus fulfill their protective function.
Where is a fire door with hold-open system useful?
A hold-open system for fire protection doors is particularly recommended in buildings with high levels of operational and public traffic. This means almost everywhere: offices, factories, schools, doctors' surgeries, retirement homes, stores and places of assembly.
The installation of hold-open systems is not mandatory. However, in the experience of our CWS Fire Safety experts, installing a door with a hold-open system makes a lot of sense.
The main arguments for installing or retrofitting hold-open systems are
- the improvement of operating procedures
- more convenience and
- more freedom of movement for people and equipment.
Important: All three aspects help to prevent dangerous tampering with doors and gates
Having hold-open systems retrofitted
Hold-open systems usually consist of slide rail systems. They are compact, visually appealing and can generally be retrofitted without any problems. The power supply, door hold-open device and fire detector are already integrated.
In production areas, magnetic hold-open systems can also be a sensible alternative. These are used almost exclusively for large fire protection doors.
Retrofitting hold-open systems pays off!
Considering the risks of tampering and the repair costs of damaged fire doors and gates, the costs of professionally retrofitting a hold-open system quickly pay for themselves.
Frequently asked questions and answers
What does a hold-open system include?
The hold-open systems (FSA) essentially consist of
- hold-open device
- fire detector
- Manual release button
- power supply
- Acoustic and visual signaling device (for gates)
- Possibly holding magnet and anchor plate
How do fire doors with hold-open systems work?
If the fire detector detects a fire, the detector interrupts the power supply, the hold-open device is released, the door or gate is released and closes. In the case of double-leaf doors, the additional closing sequence control ensures that the active leaf is held until the passive leaf is closed. In this way, the hold-open system prevents the spread of flames and smoke - the protection objective is achieved.
Manual release buttons are also fitted in a clearly visible position near the fire protection closure. They enable fire doors and gates to be triggered manually if a fire is suspected. The buttons also prevent damage to the hold-open system caused by violent attempts to close the door by tearing at it.
Holding magnets for locking are generally only used on industrial doors. We do not recommend them for doors. On the one hand for visual reasons. On the other hand, holding magnets fixed to the floor with brackets can become a tripping hazard.
What specifications must be observed when installing a hold-open system (FSA)?
Hold-open systems for fire doors require approval from the building authorities (DIBt approval). If a door with a hold-open system is installed directly, our expert service technicians ensure that all components are approved for joint installation. The DIBt guidelines are primarily decisive. We also take into account the European standard for hold-open systems EN 14637.
What specifications must be observed when retrofitting hold-open systems for fire doors?
The retrofitting of hold-open systems means a modification to fire protection doors. The planned redesign of the door must comply with the options permitted by the DIBt regulations. This must be checked in advance by the operator, usually the user of the premises or the employer. We are happy to assist you with this complex task.
We will also advise you on the selection of the right product. In addition, we will discuss with you in advance whether the hold-open system should be connected to the fire alarm system and networked with other security systems in your building, for example.
Who is authorized to install a hold-open system (FSA)?
In principle, a hold-open system can be installed by anyone as long as the person observes the building inspectorate specifications and those of the manufacturer.
Furthermore, an FSA must be approved before initial commissioning. This inspection must be arranged by the operator. Either the manufacturer of the hold-open system or authorized specialists - e.g. CWS Fire Safety service technicians - may carry out the acceptance test prior to initial commissioning.
After successful acceptance, a sign with the acceptance date must be affixed. The operator receives documentation to present to insurance companies, authorities and the fire department.
How is maintenance regulated?
During operation, a functional test of the FSA is due once a month. This task may be performed by the operator.
Once a year, the door with hold-open system must be checked and maintained by a specialist. In addition to the functionality, the documentation is also checked, components are replaced as a preventative measure if necessary and the detectors and power supply are tested.
Details on maintenance, functional testing and requirements for the specialist can be found in DIN 14677 and EN 14637. The operator usually commissions a competent service provider such as CWS Fire Safety to carry out these tasks.
Hold-open systems from a specialist company
We support you both with the installation of fire protection doors with hold-open systems and with retrofitting. We are partners with well-known manufacturers and guarantee rapid availability and installation in accordance with the applicable specifications.
Do you have any questions about fire doors with hold-open systems?
Write to us, we will be happy to advise you with our comprehensive expertise.