(3) Door, frame, and hardware are in proper working order.

The assembly components must be securely fastened, operational, and the door must swing freely.  If a noncombustible threshold is required, it must be installed securely.  Although labels aren’t specifically mentioned, this is one item that code officials seem to consistently look for so I will cover them here.

Most components of a fire door assembly are required to be listed or labeled.  The physical label or the inclusion of the product in a published list indicates that the product has been manufactured in compliance with the appropriate standards for use in a fire door assembly.

Labels may be made of metal, paper, or plastics, or may be stamped or diecast into the item.  If labels are missing or illegible, the code official may require evaluation and re-labeling by an authorized agent.  Fire door and frame labels will include information about the manufacturer, the fire rating, a unique number that can be used to learn more about the opening, and perhaps additional information such as the latch throw, or a reference to fire exit hardware.

Generic items such as hinges, which do not require individual labels, must meet the requirements of NFPA 80.  For example, NFPA 80 specifies the quantity of hinges (2 hinges for doors up to 60 inches high + 1 hinge for each additional 30″ of door height), and the quantity of spring hinges (at least 2) where applicable.  It also states that hinges must be ball bearing type or may employ other antifriction bearing surfaces in accordance with ANSI/BHMA A156.1 – Standard for Butts and Hinges.  NFPA 80 Table 6.4.3.1 mandates the minimum hinge size and thickness, and the maximum door size for various types of hinges.

Source: NFPA 80 2007, 2010 – 4.2 (labels) and 6.4.3.1 (hinges)

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