Where are Fire Rated Doors Required?
Fire-rated doors are required in specific locations to help contain fire and smoke and protect occupants and exit routes. Requirements are established by the International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code, and enforced by local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).
- Stairwells and exit enclosures to protect primary evacuation routes
- Corridors and fire-rated hallways serving as means of egress
- Between occupancies or tenant spaces with different fire-resistance ratings
- Mechanical and electrical rooms containing high-risk equipment
- Boiler rooms and furnace rooms
- Commercial kitchens and areas with elevated fire hazards
- Hazardous storage rooms (flammable liquids, chemicals, or combustible materials)
- Garages and parking structures, especially where connected to occupied spaces
- Elevator lobbies and hoistway openings, where required by code
- Openings in fire-rated walls or partitions of any type
The required fire-resistance rating of the door (20, 45, 60, 90, or 180 minutes) depends on the wall rating, occupancy type, and building design.