Asbestos in Fire Doors: What Businesses Need to Know
Asbestos-containing fire doors were commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings due to their excellent fire resistance. However, many of these doors are still in use today, posing significant health risks to workers, residents, and visitors. Businesses in manufacturing, offices, nursing homes, restaurants, and other industries must understand the potential dangers and ensure compliance with asbestos regulations.
Where Are Asbestos Fire Doors Found?
Asbestos-containing fire doors were widely used between the 1950s and the late 1980s in:
Office buildings and commercial properties
Hospitals, nursing homes, and aged care facilities
Restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments
Manufacturing plants and warehouses
Schools, universities, and government buildings
These doors were designed to provide enhanced fire resistance, often containing asbestos within their core to withstand high temperatures.
What Are the Risks of Asbestos in Fire Doors?
Asbestos in fire doors is generally safe if the door remains intact. However, risks arise when doors become damaged, deteriorate over time, or are disturbed during renovations or removal. Key risks include:
Exposure to Asbestos Fibres – If the internal asbestos core is disturbed, airborne fibres can be released, posing severe health risks.
Health Implications – Inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to serious illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Regulatory Non-Compliance – Under WHS Regulation 2017, businesses have a duty to identify and manage asbestos risks in the workplace.
How to Identify Asbestos-Containing Fire Doors
While asbestos-containing fire doors may not always be visibly different from modern alternatives, some indicators include:
Manufacturing Date – Doors installed before 1990 may contain asbestos.
Fire Safety Labels – Some older fire doors may have labels indicating they contain asbestos.
Inspection Reports – Previous asbestos audits or registers may list fire doors as containing asbestos.
Professional Testing – The only reliable way to confirm asbestos content is through laboratory testing.
Managing Asbestos Fire Doors Safely
To ensure safety and compliance, businesses should:
Conduct an Asbestos Inspection – Engage licensed professionals to assess fire doors for asbestos content.
Maintain an Asbestos Register – Ensure asbestos fire doors are documented and regularly reviewed.
Implement Safe Work Procedures – If asbestos fire doors need removal or maintenance, follow strict control measures to prevent fibre release.
Monitor Air Quality – Conduct air monitoring when working around asbestos-containing materials.
Engage Licensed Professionals – Only trained asbestos specialists should handle, remove, or dispose of asbestos fire doors.
How Confluence Environmental Can Help
At Confluence Environmental, we provide expert asbestos consulting services, including:
Asbestos identification and testing for fire doors
Air monitoring during asbestos-related work
Asbestos register preparation and annual reviews
Clearance inspections following asbestos removal
Ensure compliance and protect your workforce from asbestos risks. Contact Confluence Environmental today for expert guidance and asbestos risk management solutions.