NFPA 80 Fire Door Inspection Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide
Today’s date is 02/12/2026 02:00:16. This checklist prepares you for fire door inspections, ensuring compliance with NFPA 80 standards and regulations.
NFPA 80 provides comprehensive guidelines for the installation and maintenance of fire doors, crucial for life safety within buildings. Regular inspections, guided by a detailed NFPA 80 fire door inspection checklist PDF, are not merely recommended – they are often legally mandated, particularly in Florida and other jurisdictions.
These inspections verify that fire doors and their associated hardware function as intended, maintaining fire and smoke compartmentalization. A properly functioning fire door can significantly delay the spread of fire, providing occupants with valuable time to evacuate and firefighters with a safer environment to operate. Utilizing a standardized checklist ensures consistency and thoroughness, covering all essential components from hinges and hardware to gasketing and signage.
Certified inspectors play a vital role, ensuring adherence to standards regarding fire activation and detection device placement, jamb construction, lintel requirements, and appropriate floor coverings.
Importance of Regular Fire Door Inspections
Consistent, documented fire door inspections, utilizing an NFPA 80 fire door inspection checklist PDF, are paramount for maintaining building safety and legal compliance. These inspections aren’t simply about ticking boxes; they directly impact life safety by ensuring fire and smoke compartmentalization functions correctly during an emergency.
Neglecting regular inspections can lead to compromised fire door integrity, potentially allowing fire and smoke to spread rapidly, endangering occupants and hindering firefighting efforts. A thorough inspection verifies proper operation of self-closing mechanisms, latch engagement, and the condition of essential components like hinges and gasketing.
Furthermore, adherence to NFPA 80 standards, including correct signage and appropriate hardware, is often a requirement for insurance purposes and building code enforcement. Proactive inspections, guided by the checklist, prevent costly repairs and potential legal liabilities.

Key Components of a Fire Door Inspection

Inspections cover door hardware, frames, leaves, and gasketing. Verify compliance with NFPA 80, checking for proper function and necessary repairs or replacements.
Door Hardware Inspection
A thorough hardware inspection is crucial for fire door functionality. Begin by verifying hinge compliance with NFPA 80 standards; ensure hinges are securely mounted and free from damage, requiring repair or replacement if necessary. Examine the kick plate, confirming the top edge doesn’t exceed 16 inches from the door’s bottom – referencing NFPA 80 for precise regulations is vital.
Inspect the self-closing mechanism, guaranteeing smooth and consistent operation. The latch should engage fully into the strike plate without needing excessive force. Assess all hardware for proper alignment and secure attachment. Remember to document any deficiencies found during the inspection process, noting the specific issue and recommended corrective action. Proper hardware maintenance is essential for maintaining fire door integrity and life safety.
Hinge Compliance and Condition
Hinges are critical components of a fire door assembly, demanding meticulous inspection. Verify that hinges are listed for fire door use and are appropriately sized for the door’s weight and frequency of operation. Confirm secure mounting to both the door and frame, checking for loose screws or damaged hardware. Inspect for signs of corrosion, bending, or other structural weaknesses that could compromise functionality.

Ensure hinges haven’t been modified or altered in a way that deviates from the manufacturer’s specifications or NFPA 80 requirements. Proper hinge operation is essential for the door to self-close and latch correctly. Document any deficiencies, including the hinge type, location, and specific issue. Replace or repair damaged hinges promptly to maintain fire door integrity and life safety.
Door Frame and Jamb Inspection
A robust door frame and jamb are fundamental to fire door functionality. Thoroughly inspect the frame for any signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or deterioration, which could compromise its structural integrity during a fire event. Verify the frame is securely anchored to the building structure, ensuring it can withstand fire exposure and maintain the fire-resistance rating.
Pay close attention to the fire opening jamb construction, confirming it meets NFPA 80 standards for materials and installation. Check for proper clearances between the door and frame, ensuring smooth operation of the self-closing device and latching mechanism. Document any deficiencies, including the location and nature of the damage. Correct any issues promptly to maintain the fire door assembly’s effectiveness.
Fire Opening Jamb Construction
NFPA 80 dictates specific requirements for fire opening jamb construction, crucial for maintaining a fire door’s integrity. Verify the jamb material is approved for fire-rated assemblies, typically constructed of steel or a fire-resistant wood material. Inspect for proper installation, ensuring the jamb is securely fastened to the building structure without compromising its fire-resistance.
Confirm the jamb’s depth and width align with the door’s fire rating and the manufacturer’s specifications. Examine the perimeter of the jamb for gaps or voids that could allow smoke or fire to pass through. Any deficiencies in jamb construction must be documented and addressed immediately. Adherence to these standards is paramount for ensuring the fire door assembly functions as intended during a fire emergency, protecting lives and property.
Door Leaf Inspection
A thorough inspection of the door leaf is essential for NFPA 80 compliance. Begin by verifying the door’s fire rating label is intact and legible, confirming it matches the required rating for the location. Examine the door’s surface for any damage, such as holes, cracks, or warping, that could compromise its fire-resistant properties.
Pay close attention to the door’s edges and core, ensuring they are free from delamination or deterioration. Confirm the top edge of the kick plate is not more than 16 inches from the bottom of the door, adhering to NFPA 80 regulations. Any damage or non-compliance must be documented and rectified promptly to maintain the door’s effectiveness in containing fire and smoke.

Kick Plate Compliance (Height & Condition)
Ensuring proper kick plate installation is a critical aspect of fire door inspections. According to NFPA 80 standards, the top edge of the kick plate must not exceed 16 inches from the bottom of the door. This height restriction is vital for protecting the door’s core from impact damage, which could compromise its fire-resistant integrity.
Inspect the kick plate for any signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or loose attachment. A damaged or improperly positioned kick plate weakens the door’s ability to withstand force during a fire event. Document any discrepancies and require immediate repair or replacement to maintain compliance and ensure the door functions as intended, safeguarding occupants and property.
Gasketing and Seals
Fire door gasketing and seals are essential for containing smoke and hot gases during a fire, significantly improving evacuation time and reducing property damage. During inspections, meticulously examine all gasketing around the door leaf and frame for any signs of deterioration, such as cracks, gaps, or compression.
NFPA 80 mandates that gasketing must be intact and properly adhered to ensure a tight seal when the door is closed. Replace or repair gasketing as needed to maintain its effectiveness. Verify the gasketing material is appropriate for the fire door’s rating and application. Document any deficiencies and ensure prompt corrective action is taken to restore the door’s fire protection capabilities.
Gasketing Replacement and Repair

When replacing gasketing, always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and NFPA 80 guidelines. Ensure the new gasketing material matches the original specifications regarding fire resistance and compatibility with the door and frame materials. Proper adhesion is critical; clean surfaces thoroughly before applying adhesive to guarantee a secure and lasting bond.
For minor damage, repair may be possible, but only if the gasketing’s integrity isn’t compromised. Significant cracks, tears, or compression necessitate complete replacement. Document all replacement or repair work, including the date, materials used, and the inspector’s initials. Regular monitoring of gasketing condition is vital for maintaining fire door functionality and life safety.

Inspection Checklist Details
Verify adhesive attachment of signage and perform clearance checks. Confirm self-closing mechanisms and latch engagement function correctly, adhering to NFPA 80 standards.
Signage Verification
Proper signage is crucial for fire door functionality and compliance with NFPA 80 standards. During inspection, meticulously verify that all required signage is present on the fire door and frame. This includes labels indicating the door’s fire resistance rating, whether it’s a “Fire Door Keep Closed” or “Fire Door Do Not Block” instruction, and any other necessary warnings.
Crucially, confirm the signage is securely attached. The provided information highlights the importance of adhesive attachment of signage; ensure labels are firmly affixed and haven’t become loose, damaged, or obscured. Missing or improperly attached signage compromises the door’s effectiveness in a fire emergency, potentially leading to life-threatening consequences. Inspect for any signs of tampering or deliberate removal of signage. Document any deficiencies immediately for prompt correction.
Adhesive Attachment of Signage
The integrity of signage attachment is paramount for maintaining fire door compliance, as dictated by NFPA 80. Specifically, the standard emphasizes that signage affixed to fire doors must utilize adhesive methods for secure placement. This isn’t merely about visibility; it’s about ensuring the information remains consistently present during a fire event.
Inspect each label meticulously. Gently test the adhesion of all signage – fire door ratings, “keep closed” instructions, and any other warnings – to confirm they are firmly bonded to the door surface. Look for peeling corners, bubbling, or any indication the adhesive is failing. Avoid using excessive force during testing to prevent damage. Document any instances of loose or improperly adhered signage immediately.
Corrective action is essential. Replace any signage exhibiting compromised adhesion with new labels utilizing appropriate adhesive materials.
Clearance Checks
Maintaining proper clearances around fire doors is a critical aspect of NFPA 80 compliance, directly impacting their functionality during a fire. These checks ensure the door can operate freely and effectively seal the opening, preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Clearance deficiencies are common inspection findings, requiring immediate attention.
Inspect for obstructions. Verify that there is adequate clearance between the door leaf and the frame throughout the entire closing arc. Look for anything that could impede the door’s movement – paint buildup, debris, storage items, or improperly installed hardware. The door should swing freely without binding or requiring excessive force.
Document all findings. Record any clearance issues, noting the location and nature of the obstruction. Corrective actions include removing obstructions, adjusting hardware, or repainting areas with excessive buildup.
Self-Closing Mechanism
A properly functioning self-closing mechanism is paramount to a fire door’s life-safety role. NFPA 80 mandates that fire doors reliably return to a closed position after being opened, containing fire and smoke. This inspection focuses on verifying that the closer operates smoothly and with sufficient force.
Test the closing speed. Open the door to various degrees and observe its closing action; It should close completely without latching issues, exhibiting a controlled speed – not too fast or too slow. Adjust the closer’s speed settings if necessary, adhering to manufacturer’s guidelines and NFPA 80 requirements.
Check for damage and proper attachment. Inspect the closer for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose mounting hardware. Ensure it’s securely attached to both the door and the frame. Document any deficiencies and recommend repairs or replacement as needed.

Latch Engagement
Proper latch engagement is critical for fire door functionality, ensuring secure closure during a fire event. NFPA 80 requires the latch to securely fasten into the strike plate without requiring excessive force or leaving noticeable gaps. This inspection verifies that the latch operates correctly and maintains the integrity of the fire barrier.
Test latching from a closed position. Close the door normally and attempt to latch it. The latch should engage fully and firmly into the strike plate with a smooth, positive action. Observe for any binding, sticking, or difficulty in latching.
Inspect the strike plate alignment. Ensure the strike plate is correctly aligned with the latch and securely mounted to the door frame; Misalignment can prevent proper latching. Document any issues and recommend adjustments or repairs to guarantee reliable latch engagement.

NFPA 80 Specific Requirements
NFPA 80 details acceptable locations for fire devices, jamb construction, lintel requirements, and floor covering considerations for optimal fire safety.
Acceptable Locations of Fire Activation Devices
NFPA 80 meticulously outlines where fire activation devices can be appropriately installed concerning fire doors. These locations must not compromise the door’s functionality or fire-resistant integrity. Devices shouldn’t obstruct the door’s closing or latching mechanisms, nor should their placement weaken the door frame or leaf.
Activation devices are generally permitted on the door leaf itself, but specific height restrictions and clearances from the door’s edge apply. Mounting on the frame is allowed, provided it doesn’t affect the frame’s structural stability or the door’s sealing capabilities.
Crucially, devices shouldn’t be installed in a manner that could cause the door to remain open during a fire event. Careful consideration must be given to wiring and conduit runs, ensuring they are protected and don’t interfere with the door’s operation. Adherence to these guidelines is vital for maintaining a building’s fire safety systems.
Acceptable Locations of Detection Devices
NFPA 80 provides specific guidance on the acceptable placement of fire detection devices relative to fire doors. The standard prioritizes maintaining the integrity of the fire door assembly and ensuring its proper function during a fire. Detection devices, such as smoke detectors or heat sensors, should not impede the door’s ability to close and latch effectively.
Mounting detection devices directly on the fire door leaf is generally permissible, but careful attention must be paid to clearances and potential interference with the door’s operation. Installation on the door frame is also allowed, provided it doesn’t compromise the frame’s structural integrity or the door’s sealing capabilities.
The standard emphasizes avoiding locations where devices could be easily damaged or disabled during normal door usage. Wiring and conduit must be installed neatly and securely, preventing any obstruction or damage to the fire door assembly. Proper placement is crucial for reliable fire detection and life safety.
Lintel Construction Requirements
NFPA 80 outlines critical requirements for lintel construction above fire door openings, ensuring structural integrity during a fire event. The lintel, the horizontal support above the door frame, must be capable of sustaining the weight of the door and frame, even when exposed to fire’s intense heat. Proper construction prevents collapse and maintains the fire-resistance rating of the assembly.
The standard specifies acceptable materials and construction methods for lintels, often requiring fire-resistance ratings equivalent to the fire door assembly itself. Reinforcement with steel is frequently necessary, particularly for wider openings or heavier door configurations.
Inspectors must verify that lintels are adequately supported and free from cracks or damage that could compromise their structural capacity. Any modifications or penetrations in the lintel area require careful evaluation to ensure they don’t diminish its fire-resistance. Compliance with these requirements is vital for life safety.
Floor Covering Considerations
NFPA 80 addresses floor covering installations around fire doors, recognizing their potential impact on fire door performance. The standard aims to prevent floor coverings from undermining the door’s ability to maintain its fire-resistance rating. Specifically, the concern centers on materials that might melt or burn rapidly, potentially compromising the gap between the door and the floor.
Acceptable floor coverings must be non-combustible or limited-combustible, and their thickness is carefully regulated. Excessive thickness can obstruct the door’s closing mechanism or create a path for smoke and fire spread.
Inspectors must verify that floor coverings do not fill the gap under the door, and that any installed materials meet the specified flammability requirements. Modifications or additions to floor coverings necessitate re-evaluation to ensure continued compliance with NFPA 80. Proper floor covering selection is crucial for maintaining fire door effectiveness.

Documentation and Reporting
Maintaining detailed inspection records is essential for demonstrating NFPA 80 compliance. Accurate documentation supports accountability and facilitates future inspections and necessary repairs.
Inspection Record Keeping
Comprehensive record-keeping is a cornerstone of NFPA 80 compliance. Each fire door inspection necessitates a detailed report documenting all findings, including the date, time, and inspector’s credentials. The report should meticulously list each door inspected, noting its location within the building and its fire rating.
Any deficiencies identified during the inspection – such as damaged hinges, improper clearances, or missing signage – must be clearly documented, along with recommended corrective actions. Photographs are highly encouraged to visually illustrate the issues.
Furthermore, the record should track the completion of repairs, including the date the work was finished and the name of the technician who performed it. These records must be readily accessible for review by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) during fire safety inspections. Maintaining a centralized, organized system for these reports is crucial for demonstrating a proactive approach to fire safety and ensuring ongoing compliance with NFPA 80 standards.
















































































