What is the purpose of fire door assemblies?

The primary purpose of fire door assemblies is to contain fire and smoke within a specific area, thereby preventing them from spreading to other parts of a building. Fire doors are constructed from fire-resistant materials and are designed to withstand high temperatures and reduce the passage of flames and smoke. This containment is critical in ensuring the safety of occupants, providing them with more time to evacuate, and protecting property. Fire door assemblies are a vital component of a building's passive fire protection strategy, contributing to overall building safety and compliance with fire safety codes.

In contrast, while security may be a consideration for some door types, it is not the fundamental function of fire doors. Similarly, while fire doors may contribute to ease of access in some cases, their primary design is not centered on this functionality. Lastly, aesthetics may play a role in commercial settings where design is important, but fire door assemblies are primarily engineered for safety and fire protection rather than enhancing the visual appeal of a building.