Fire Doors: the Mandatory Annual Inspection (Drop Test) Explained

In a commercial, industrial or institutional building, the fire door is a vital piece of protection equipment: in case of fire, it closes automatically to prevent flames and smoke from spreading from one area to another. But a fire door that has never been tested is uncertain protection — and that is exactly what the standard addresses.

What NFPA 80 requires

The NFPA 80 standard (Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives), referenced by building codes and insurer requirements, mandates for rolling fire doors:

• An inspection and drop test at least once a year;
• The door must be dropped and reset at least twice during the test, to confirm the mechanism works properly;
• The test must be performed by a qualified person — someone with the knowledge, training and experience for the type of door being evaluated;
• The results must be documented in writing and the records kept (minimum three years) so they can be shown to the authority having jurisdiction or the insurer.

If the door fails any part of the test, it is considered non-compliant and must be repaired, then tested again.

Why it matters (beyond compliance)

A fire door that fails to close properly during a fire can turn a contained incident into a major loss. In the event of a claim, the absence of annual inspection records can also complicate things with your insurer. The annual inspection is a small investment compared to what it protects: your occupants, your building and your liability.

What we check during an inspection

Release by every intended means (fusible link or alarm signal), controlled closing speed, complete closure of the opening, condition of the slats, guides and fasteners, then a full system reset. All documented, with photos and a report.

A turnkey service

Les Industries André offers the annual inspection and documented drop test for fire doors of most brands — as well as repairs when required. Contact us to schedule your door inspections, or browse our fire-rated door line.