Fire exit doors are a critical piece in any commercial facility’s safety system. They ensure a quick and secure evacuation during a crisis. Like any mechanical equipment, however, fire exit doors suffer from wear and tear over time. Timely repair and regular maintenance is necessary for them to operate normally. Here are some definite signs that your commercial fire exit doors need repair service immediately in Toronto.
1. Difficulty in Opening or Closing
A properly operating fire exit door must be smooth in both closing and opening. A door that takes more than usual force in order to function might be an indicator that hinges, door frame, or internal mechanisms malfunction. Jammed doors and rigid doors can be hazardous during a fire emergency and should be repaired by a repair company as soon as possible.
2. Visible Physical Damage
Over time, commercial fire exit doors can become dented, rusted, or cracked. They can be physically weakened by damage, making them less effective at keeping out smoke and fire. When the door is warped out of shape or out of alignment, it is rendered unusable, diminishing its utility during emergencies.
3. Loose or Faulty Door Hardware
Fire exit doors function through sturdy hardware, including hinges, handles, locks, and panic bars, that must be in proper condition. Loose, broken, or absent parts require repair service at once. Panic bars, in particular, must be in excellent operating condition in order to provide for timely evacuation.
4. Gaps or Misalignment
The exit door should be sealed properly when closed so that fire and smoke cannot spread. In the event that there is visible gap between the door and frame, or the door is visibly misaligned, the door may be ineffective during emergency situations. A professional repair company can realign the door and seal the gaps so that it becomes efficient again.
5. Worn-out seals, cracked, broken
Fire exit doors contain seals that bar smoke and heat from penetrating. They deteriorate, crack, or loosen over time, weakening their function. Early detection of seal damage can be achieved through regular inspections, with replacements made in a timely manner.
6. Corrosion and Rusting
Since fire exit doors are more likely to be exposed to the elements, they rust or corrode. This is more so in commercial fire exit doors in humid climates or seaside areas. Rust weakens the door and disables the door from moving smoothly. A repair company should be contacted immediately in the event that corrosion is noticed.
7. Inoperative Automatic Door Closers
Automatic closers are frequently installed in most fire exit doors so that they remain closed when they’re not in use. Your door could be adjusted or replaced if it does not automatically shut, or slams shut with a force that is too strong. A malfunctioning closer can be a safety hazard and should be fixed by a professional repair company.
8. Flawed Alarm System Integration
Modern commercial fire exit doors are generally linked with alarm systems that activate in the case of emergency. In the unlikely event that the alarm fails to sound when the door is entered, or the door fails to unlock during a fire drill, there is most likely either electrical or mechanical malfunction. A full check and repair service can rectify the issue and restore full function.
9. Warping caused by Heat or Moisture:
Metal or wooden fire exit doors can be warped by prolonged exposure to heat, moisture, or any weather conditions. A warped door does not fit properly in the door frame, and this affects closing and opening. In the event that you see any indication of warping, hire a repair company for corrective measures.
10. Unauthorized changes or blockages
Sometimes, modifications made to fire exit doors such as the addition of locks, deadbolts, or obstructions-can hinder their operation. When your commercial fire exit doors have been altered in any way that would hinder free exit, such changes must be eliminated immediately in order to be in compliance with fire safety codes.
The Significance of Timely Repairs and Maintenance in Toronto
Overlooking malfunction signs can result in compliance problems, liability, and safety hazards. Prompt repair service, routine inspections, and fire safety code compliance can help maintain the integrity of your commercial fire exit doors.
By getting these problems sorted out in advance, your company can be certain that your premises remain safe and compliant. Don’t delay in booking a professional repair service in Toronto if your fire exit door is in need of attention.
