SANS1253

ICS 13.220.20. 91.060.
50
SANS 1253:2003
ISBN 0-626-14707-7 Edition 3
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
Fire-doors and fire-shutters
Published by Standards South Africa

1 dr lategan road groenkloof private bag x191 pretoria 0001
tel: 012 428 7911 fax: 012 344 1568 international code + 27 12
www.stansa.co.za
 Standards South Africa 2003
Copyright protected. This standard was downloaded on 2011-07-28 18:57 by Mr. Leon Botha of Haw & Inglis Projects.
Single-user license only; copying and networking prohibited.
SANS 1253:2003
Edition 3
Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope
Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee STANSA SC 5120.06F, Fire
safety – Fire resistance, testing and classification, in accordance with procedures of Standards
South Africa, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.
This edition cancels and replaces the second edition (SABS 1253:1994).
Annexes A, D and E form an integral part of this standard. Annexes B and C are for information
only.
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Contents
Page
Foreword
1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 3
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................. 3
3 Definitions .............................................................................................................................. 3
4 Requirements ......................................................................................................................... 4
5 Inspection and methods of test .............................................................................................. 10
6 Marking .................................................................................................................................. 14
Annex A (normative) Notes to purchasers ............................................................................. 15
Annex B (informative) Notes to manufacturers ........................................................................ 15
Annex C (informative) Quality verifications of fire-doors and fire-shutters ............................... 16
Annex D (normative) Variation from prototype ....................................................................... 16
Annex E (normative) Installation ............................................................................................ 20
Bibliography .............................................................................................................................. 29
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SANS 1253:2003
Edition 3
Fire-doors and fire-shutters
1 Scope
1.1 This standard specifies requirements for six classes of fire-door and fire-shutter assemblies
that are intended to close permanent openings in walls or partitions, to provide a fire resistance of at
least 30 min in order to stop the spread of fire and to limit the spread of smoke.
1.2 This standard does not apply to fire dampers. (For fire dampers, refer to SANS 193.)
2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this standard. All standards are subject to revision and, since any reference to a
standard is deemed to be a reference to the latest edition of that standard, parties to agreements
based on this standard are encouraged to take steps to ensure the use of the most recent editions
of the standards indicated below. Information on currently valid national and international standards
can be obtained from Standards South Africa.
SANS 10177-2 (SABS 0177-2), Fire testing of materials, components and elements used in
buildings – Part 2: Fire resistance test for building elements.
SANS 10400 (SABS 0400), The application of the National Building Regulations.
3 Definitions
For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions apply:
3.1
acceptable/adequate
acceptable or adequate to the authority administering this standard, or to the parties concluding the
purchase contract, as relevant
3.2
automatic closing device
closing device that holds but does not secure a door in an open position and that closes the door
automatically when actuated by either a predetermined fire condition or a remote control
3.3
closing device
adjustable device that will move a door from the partially open position to the fully closed position,
and that will keep the door closed against forces that do not exceed a predetermined maximum
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3.4
complete pre-hung door
assembly consisting of a frame and door leaf with hinges
3.5
co-ordinator
arrangement that enables double-leaf hinged doors with rebated meeting stiles to close in the
correct sequence for proper mating
3.6
fire-door
door suitable for mounting on a frame and that provides the required fire resistance
3.7
fire-door assembly
door and its essential hardware, so mounted on a frame that the required fire resistance is provided
3.8
fire-shutter
door that is designed to close an opening other than a doorway and that provides the required fire
resistance
3.9
fire-shutter assembly
door and its essential hardware, that is designed to close an opening other than a doorway and that
is so mounted on a frame that the required fire resistance is provided
3.10
floor spring
device, including a matching pivot, that facilitates the opening and automatic or self-closing of a
door. The components of a floor spring are fitted into the floor and to the bottom and top edges of a
door
3.11
frame
fixed part on which a fire door (see 3.6) hangs or slides and against which it closes
3.12
glazed area
transparent area in a door, in dimensions in excess of those of a viewing panel (see 3.13)
3.13
viewing panel
transparent panel fitted into a door
4 Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Assembly
4.1.1.1 Fire-doors and fire-shutters of classes A, B, C, D, E and F shall be assembled in the factory
and supplied as a complete pre-hung door.
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4.1.1.2 For the purpose of easy erection and to avoid damage during transportation or during
building operations, the door may be taken out of the frame, provided that frames and doors are
number-matched (see also annex E).
4.1.1.3 Locks and closers may also be fitted on site by qualified personnel, in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions (see also 4.4.5.2).
4.1.2 Modifications (see also annex D)

Should any modification be necessary,
a) a re-evaluation of the door or assembly shall be carried out, and
b) such modifications shall be undertaken by the manufacturer.
4.2 Class and type

4.2.1 Class
A fire-door assembly or fire-shutter assembly shall be of fire resistance class A, B, C, D, E or F (see

table 1), as required (see annex A).
Table 1 — Minimum resistance periods
1 2 3 4
Class Minimum Resistance Periods
min
Stability Integrity Insulation
A 60 30 30
B 120 60 60
C 120 120 No requirement
D 120 120 120
E 30 30 30
F 30 30 No requirement
4.2.2 Type
A door shall be one of the following types, as required (see annex A):
a) single-leaf, hinged, single action;
b) single-leaf, hinged, double action
c) double leaf, hinged, single swing;
d) double leaf, hinged, double action
e) single leaf, horizontal sliding
f) double-leaf, horizontal sliding;
g) multiple-leaf, horizontal sliding;
h) single leaf, vertical sliding;
i) single-leaf, permanently closed; and
j) rolling steel door.
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4.3 Materials
4.3.1 Structural materials
Structural materials shall be used and finished in accordance with good practice, and the various
materials shall be compatible.
4.3.2 Insulating materials
Insulating material shall
a) be so selected and so installed that they do not delaminate or become compacted in use, and
b) not depend on free moisture for their insulating properties.
4.3.3 Intumescent material
When materials that depend on intumescence for their insulating or fire-stopping properties are
used, they shall be completely embedded or enclosed in material of adequate strength and
impermeability to protect them from mechanical damage and from penetration by moisture.
4.4 Glazing and hardware (see also annex D)
4.4.1 General
Glass and accessories incorporated into the door construction shall not contribute to the failure of
the door in any way.
4.4.2 Glazing
4.4.2.1 Each leaf of a fire-door assembly of class A , B, E or F may have only one glazed area or
viewing panel (see also B.2) of dimensions that do not exceed (100 ± 5) mm x (300 ± 5) mm or of
diameter that does not exceed 200 mm.
4.4.2.2 Viewing panels of larger sizes shall meet the minimum fire resistance periods given in
table 1.
4.4.2.3 Viewing panels shall not be permitted in class C and class D fire-door assemblies.
4.4.2.4 Viewing panels, where permitted, shall be tested for compliance with requirements for
integrity and stability for the type of viewing panel fitted (see 4.9.1 and 4.9.2).
4.4.3 Hinges
Hinges (including floor springs) of an assembly shall
a) be capable of supporting the weight of the door,
b) during the installation of an assembly, allow each leaf of the door to be detached from the frame
without the hinges having to be unscrewed from the leaf, and
c) be capable of being so adjusted that a door that has been installed and closed cannot be
removed without the use of any tool.
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4.4.4 Fastenings
4.4.4.1 Fastenings, including locks, latches, bolts, or any combination of these, shall be of types
compatible with the type and class of door and shall be as required (see annex A).
4.4.4.2 Mortice locks shall not exceed 150 mm in depth and 20 mm in thickness.
4.4.4.3 When the doors (other than sliding doors) are required to form part of the escape route (see
annex A), the fastening shall allow the door to be so installed that they can be easily opened in the
direction of the escape without specialized knowledge or the use of keys or tools.
4.4.5 Closing device
4.4.5.1 Each fire-door assembly shall be fitted with a closing device that is compatible with the
class of door used and that is of the type required (see annex A).
4.4.5.2 A closing device with a liquid-reservoir type damper shall have a plug, valve or other means
that will automatically release excess pressure, to prevent explosion of the device in the event of
fire.
4.4.5.3 A closing device that depends solely on retained liquid pressure for its closing action shall
not be used in a fire-door assembly.
4.4.6 Additional or optional hardware
4.4.6.1 Hardware, including electrical hold-open devices, pull-knobs, kick plates and push plates,
shall be so fitted that the integrity of the door is not impaired.
4.4.6.2 If the hardware is not factory fitted, provision for fitting shall be made and the fitting position
shall be indicated by means of detachable labels that also provide fixing instructions (see 6.2).
4.5 Hinged-door assemblies
4.5.1 Closing of hinged doors
4.5.1.1 The closing action of a hinged door shall be smooth and positive, and the speed and force
of the closing action shall be so adjusted that the door can be operated without the exertion of
undue force and without causing injury to persons.
4.5.1.2 The closing device shall close the door, even though the door may have been pushed open
to the limit of its travel.
4.5.1.3 The closing action of a double-leaf hinged door with rebated meeting stiles shall be co-
ordinated by means of co-ordinators. Hold-open devices may form part of an automatic closing
device.
4.5.2 Fit
4.5.2.1 The fit of the leaf (or leaves) of a door, when the door is closed, shall be such that the
clearance between the top of the leaf (or leaves) and the frame does not exceed 3 mm, and the
total width of the clearances between the vertical sides of the leave of a single-leaf door set and the
frame does not at any cross-section exceed 6 mm.
4.5.2.2 In the case of a double-leaf hinged door, the clearance between one meeting stile and the
other, and the clearance between the frame and the leaves shall not exceed 4 mm.
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4.5.2.3 The floor clearance of the leaf (or leaves) of a door shall not be less than 5 mm and not be
more than 12 mm, measured between the lower edge of the leaf (or leaves) and the final level of
the floor or sill. The final level may be the top of any non-combustible floor covering.
4.5.3 Frames (see also annex B and D)
4.5.3.1 General
Any door frame should be installed in a wall in such a way that there is no possibility that the door
frame will be bypassed by fire.
4.5.3.2 Dimensions
The width of the rebates of frames shall be at least 25 mm and the material thickness of steel
frames should be at least 1,5 mm for class A, B, C and D doors.
4.5.3.3 Fixing lugs
4.5.3.3.1 Frames of which the height does not exceed 2,08 m shall have at least three fixing lugs
on each jamb.
4.5.3.3.2 All other frames shall have at least four fixing lugs on each jamb.
4.5.3.3.3 Fixing lugs shall be:
a) fitted centrally in the well of the profile;
b) of nominal thickness of at least 1,20 mm;
c) of nominal width of at least 25 mm;
d) of length such that the outstand is at least 150 mm; and
e) within 350 mm of the top of each jamb.
4.5.4 Reliability of operation of hinged-door assembly
When a hinged-door assembly is tested in accordance with 5.3,
a) no part of the assembly shall show any sign of undue wear,
b) the hinges and fastenings shall still operate smoothly, and
c) the clearance between the door and the frame shall not at any point change by more than
0,1 mm.
4.6 Sliding-door assembly

4.6.1 General
A sliding door shall be so designed and constructed that, when the door is installed in accordance
with the manufacture’s instructions and closed,
a) the average floor clearance does not exceed 12 mm, and
b) the average clearance between the door and the overlap section of the walls does not exceed
10 mm, and the maximum clearance does not exceed 15 mm.
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4.6.2 Horizontal sliding doors

4.6.2.1 A horizontal sliding door shall be suspended from an overhead rail (or rails) that are
protected from dirt and foreign matter.
4.6.2.2 Floor-mounted guide rails shall not be used.
4.6.3 Vertical sliding doors
Vertical sliding doors shall
a) move in protected non-combustible guides,
b) be so arranged and controlled that they can descend completely within 30 s, and
c) be so regulated that for the last 2 m of their descent they do not travel faster than 0,5 m/s.
4.7 Dimensions
4.7.1 Hinged doors
The width and height of a single-leaf door and of each leaf of a double-leaf door shall be as required
(see annex A), but should not exceed 1,2 m and 2,7 m, respectively.
4.7.2 Sliding doors
The width and height of a sliding door shall be such that, when the sliding door is closed, each
vertical boundary of the opening is overlapped by at least 75 mm and the upper boundary of the
opening is overlapped by at least 100 mm.
4.8 Smoke emission

When a door or an assembly is tested in accordance with 5.4, limited smoke may appear on the
unexposed face of the door but shall not cause discomfort.
4.9 Resistance to fire

4.9.1 General
When a door or an assembly is tested in accordance with 5.4, it shall, for at least the appropriate
minimum periods given in columns 2, 3 and 4 of table 1, comply with the requirements given in
4.9.2 to 4.9.4.
4.9.2 Stability
4.9.2.1 The door or assembly shall withstand the prescribed fire exposure and effectively close an
opening without the doors moving out of the frame by more than 25 mm.
4.9.2.2 There shall be no flaming on the unexposed face of the door assembly within the first
30 min of the classification period.
4.9.2.3 Intermittent light flames of approximately 150 mm long, may occur for periods not
exceeding 5 min intervals along the edges of the door, after 30 min.
4.9.2.4 Light flaming may occur during the last 15 min of the classification period on the unexposed
face area of the door, provided it is contained within a distance of 40 mm from a vertical door edge
and within 75 mm from the top edge of the door and within 75 mm from the top edge of the frame of
a viewing panel.
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4.9.3 Integrity
The door or assembly shall withstand the prescribed fire exposure without the development, at any
point of the door, of
a) a straight-through gap of width that exceeds 10 mm, and
b) straight-through gaps of width that exceed 6 mm, but does not exceed 10 mm and of combined
length that exceeds the greater of the width or the height of the door.
4.9.4 Insulation
The door or assembly shall withstand the prescribed fire exposure without the mean temperature of
the unexposed face rising to more than 140 °C initial ambient temperature, or the temperature at
any point of the face rising to more than 180 °C above initial temperature.
4.10 Structural strength (class C and class D assemblies only)

When a class C or class D assembly is tested in accordance with
a) 5.5, deformation caused by the impacts shall not be such as to prevent compliance with fire
resistance tests; and
b) 5.6, the outer skin, other than any decorative layer, shall not be penetrated by the tool at any
points of impact.
5 Inspection and methods of test

5.1 General
Carry out the inspection and tests for the different classes in the order given in table 2.
Table 2 — Sequence of tests
1 2
Class of door
Test
A B C D E F
Inspection X X X X X X
Reliability (5.3) X X X X X X
Impact (Sandbag) (5.5) X X
Impact (Steel tool) (5.6) X X
Fire-resistance test (5.4) X X X X X X
5.2 Inspection
Inspect each door or assembly for compliance with all the relevant requirements of this standard for
which tests to assess compliance are not given in 5.3 to 5.6.
NOTE For additional information regarding quality verification, refer to annex C.
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5.3 Test for reliability of operation of hinged-door assembly
5.3.1 Apparatus
Actuating mechanism, that applies approximately the same force as that applied by the closing
device of the assembly under test.
5.3.2 Preparation of test sample
Build the assembly under test into a suitable wall in a manner similar to that used in practice.
Render the closing device and, when relevant, the latch and co-ordinator inoperative.
5.3.3 Procedure
5.3.3.1 Connect the actuating mechanism to the approximate midpoint of the lock stile of the door,
NOTE In the case of a double-leaf door, secure the other leaf in the closed position.
5.3.3.2 Subject the door to 1 000 cycles of opening and closing to its full extend, at a rate of
4 cycles per minute.
5.3.3.3 Check for compliance with 4.4.3 and 4.5.4.
5.3.3.4 In the case of a double-leaf door, repeat the procedure on the leaf previously closed, but
secure in the open position the leaf that has already been tested.
5.4 Fire-resistance test
5.4.1 General
5.4.1.1 If the construction of the door (face to face) is symmetrical, only one sample need be
subjected to a fire test.
5.4.1.2 If the construction (face to face) is non-symmetrical, test two samples to establish the fire
resistance from both sides and take the lower of the two results as the actual fire resistance.
5.4.1.3 Test sliding doors with the suspension system exposed to the fire, irrespective of the door
construction. Carry out the test in accordance with SANS 10177-2.
5.4.2 Preparation of test sample
5.4.2.1 Build the door (mounted in a frame as described in 4.5 or 4.6, as appropriate) or the
assembly under test into a suitable wall in a manner similar to that used in practice. Ensure that the
correct clearances, as given in 4.5.2 and 4.6.1, are maintained during building operations by placing
spacers of suitable thickness between the door and the frame, floor or walls.
5.4.2.2 If the door or assembly is intended to be used in conjunction with the wall or partition other
than one of masonry construction, use a similar type of wall for the rest.
5.4.2.3 Allow the masonry to dry for at least three days and then place a wall against the furnace.
5.4.2.4 Arrange temperature-measuring equipment in accordance with SANS 10177-2.
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5.4.3 Procedure
Raise the furnace temperature in accordance with SANS 10177-2, ensuring that the pressure in the
upper half of the furnace remains positive after the first 10 min while the pressure at the bottom is
negative with respect to atmospheric pressure. The total test period for each class of door or
assembly is given in column 2 of table 1.
5.4.4 Observations
NOTE The temperature of steel frames and of viewing panels (see 3.13 and annex B) may, for the purpose of
this test, be ignored, provided that the door or assembly does not fail to comply with the requirements of 4.8.
5.4.4.1 Throughout the test, observe and record the following:
a) how much (if any) smoke appears on the unexposed side of the door or assembly and whether it
causes discomfort in the vicinity of the sample; and
NOTE Take care to distinguish between smoke and steam.
b) the duration of any continuous flaming on the unexposed face of the door.
Check for compliance with 4.8 and 4.9.2.1 to 4.9.2.4 respectively.
5.4.4.2 At the end of the appropriate period given in column 4 of table 1, determine whether the
mean temperature of the unexposed face, at any time during that period, rose to more than 140 °C
above the initial temperature or whether the temperature at any point on the face rose to more than
180 °C above the initial temperature. Check for compliance with 4.9.3.
NOTE The mean temperature is measured on the unexposed face in at least five positions, each of which is
at least 100 mm away from door edges and, when relevant, from glazed areas.
5.4.4.3 At the end of the appropriate period given in column 3 of table 1, check for compliance with
4.9.1.
5.5 Sandbag impact test (class C and class D assemblies only)

5.5.1 Apparatus
Leather sandbag, of diameter approximately 250 mm and of mass 30 kg ± 0,5 kg, suspended in
such a way that, when the sandbag is hanging freely,
a) the point of suspension is fixed and at least 1,5 m above the centre of gravity of the sandbag,
b) the perimeter of the sandbag just makes contact with the face of the door on the side that will be
exposed to fire (see 5.4), and
c) the centre of the bag, in the case of a hinged-door assembly, is in horizontal alignment with the
centre of the door and, in the case of a sliding-door assembly, is in the centre of the leaf under
test.
5.5.2 Procedure
5.5.2.1 Draw the sandbag away from the door at right angles to the face of the door until the centre
of gravity of the bag is 600 mm above its initial level.
5.5.2.2 Release the bag and allow it to swing back freely and strike the door.
5.5.2.3 Repeat the test and check for compliance with 4.10.
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5.6 Steel-tool impact test
5.6.1 Apparatus
Steel-tool, of mass 1,8 kg and shaped like a cold chisel, and an included wedge angle of 20°
between sloping surfaces and a 38 mm wide wedge ground to a radius of 2,5 mm. The tool is
attached to a rigid pendulum which pivots in a metal frame. The pendulum legs are manufactured of
8 mm diameter rods welded to a steel plate of size 110 mm x 30 mm x 10 mm at the pivot end (see
figure 1).
Figure 1 ― Apparatus for typical steel-tool impact resistance test
5.6.2 Procedure
5.6.2.1 Position the tool so that, when it is hanging freely at rest, the chisel edge lightly touches the
face of the door with the tool’s long axis at a right angle to the door face and the horizontal chisel
edge.
5.6.2.2 Draw the tool away from the door at right angles to the face of the door until the edge of the
tool has been raised through a height of 350 mm.
5.6.2.3 Release the tool and allow it to swing back freely and strike the door with the full width of
the edge of the tool.
5.6.2.4 Carry out two such tests at a point approximately 300 mm from the lower horizontal edge
and any free edge of the door, and check for compliance with 4.10.
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6 Marking
6.1 Each door and assembly shall have metal identification plates fixed in readily visible positions
to the door and to the frame. These plates shall be legibly and indelibly marked with the following
information:
a) the manufacturer’s name or trade name or trade mark;
b) a unique identification number and the date of manufacture; and
c) the class (see 4.9);
6.2 Secondary information such as installation instructions shall be supplied on a removable label
or tag. Positions where closing devices or additional hardware are to be mounted shall be indicated
by removable labels. These labels shall also contain mounting instructions, including the sizes of
the screws required (see also annex E).
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Annex A
(normative)
Notes to purchasers
The following requirements shall be specified in tender invitations and in each order or contract:
a) the class and type of door (see 4.2);
b) the type(s) of fastening(s) and, where relevant, whether the door is to form part of an escape
route (see 4.4.4);
NOTE Sliding doors may not form part of the escape route.
c) the type of closing device to be fitted to the door(s) (see 4.4.5); and
d) the nominal width and nominal height of the doors (see 4.7).
Annex B
(informative)
Notes to manufacturers
B.1 In the case of fire-door assemblies of the hinged type with steel frames, a rebate width of
25 mm is most suitable.
B.2 Viewing panels of size 100 mm by 300 mm in class A and class B doors are most effectively
formed by double glazing, using wired glass or other suitable fire-resistant glass. Single glazing
tends to cause premature ignition of the unexposed face.
B.3 Generally, edge strips of thickness in excess of 10 mm allow fire to by-pass a door and hence
cause premature ignition of the unexposed face.
B.4 A combustible content of the door leaf in excess of 5 % generally gives unsatisfactory results.
B.5 An excessively thick decorative finish of combustible material on the faces of the door is likely
to give unsatisfactory results.
B.6 Combustible door frames is generally not acceptable with class A, B, C and D doors.
B.7 Edge protection of metal at the centre-meeting stiles, has generally been unsuccessful if it
passes through uninterrupted.
B.8 It is recommended that mortice holes for locks be made by the manufacturer.
B.9 Solid timber doors and frames even if treated with a fire retardant are deemed to be still
combustible.
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Annex C
(informative)
Quality verification of fire-doors and fire-shutters

When a purchaser requires ongoing verification of the quality of fire-doors and fire-shutters, it is
suggested that instead of concentrating solely on evaluation of the final product, he also direct his
attention to the manufacturer’s quality system. In this connection it should be noted that SANS 9001
covers the provision of an integrated quality system.
Annex D
(normative)
Variation from prototype

D.1 General
The basis of this standard is the production and testing of a prototype fire-door, and the subsequent
production and installation of additional equivalent fire-doors which have equivalent performance to
the tested prototype. Variations from prototypes shall either be;
a) tested; or
b) approved or certified in writing by the testing authority that tested the prototype doorset;
i) to be acceptable in terms of this annexure; and
ii) on the basis of observed performance in a pilot examination, or in a full scale test of a doorset
of similar construction, not to be likely to prejudice its fire resistance when placed in service.
D.2 Size
D.2.1 When an opening smaller than that tested is to be protected, the width and height to the
door frame and door leaf taken as a unit may be decreased but no alteration shall be made to the
nominal thickness of the door leaf, to other dimensions of the door leaf or to the clearances
specified.
D.2.2 The width of the door may be increased by 15 % and the height by 10 %, provided that, in
all other respects, the door is identical with that tested.
D.2.3 In a case where an assembly that was tested was of the maximum dimensions that could be
accommodated by the testing authority, the authority may in its report state the maximum dimension
that it considers to be acceptable.
D.3 Door leaf

D.3.1 Facing and edging
D.3.1.1 Variations may only be made in the materials used for facing or edging of the door leaf if
supported by evidence of full scale prototype testing of a door leaf testing of a door leaf of similar
construction but which may be different in type, size, or configuration.
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D.3.1.2 Facing of low carbon steel may be substituted for facings of stainless steel provided that;
a) such facings are fixed by adhesive to the face or faces of the door leaf of the tested prototype
and are not returned around any edge; and
b) the clearance between the main body of the door leaf and the door frame are not increased
beyond that of the tested prototype.
D.3.2 Internal construction

Substitution of alternative material in the internal construction of the door leaf may only be made if,
in the opinion of the testing authority, such alternative material in the tested prototype would not
have reduced its fire resistance.
D.4 Door frames

D.4.1 Single rebate and double rebate door frames may be interchanged only in openings in walls
of brick, concrete and reinforced concrete.
D.4.2 No variations shall be made in respect of any of the following:

a) decrease in either of the dimension of the door seat rebate in which the door leaf is fitted,
b) width of either architrave face of the door frame,
c) thickness of material used in, and the method of door frame construction,
d) material from which the door frame is manufactured, except that for metal frames an electro-
plated or other metallic finish may be added, and
e) method of mounting and anchoring of the door frame in the wall opening.
D.5 Hardware
D.5.1 General
D.5.1.1 Other than in accordance with D.5.2, no item of hardware may be added and no variation
shall be made in the type, positioning, fixing, material, method of construction, geometry of
operation, or temperature of fusion of any item of hardware fitted to a fire resistant doorset if;
a) the re-positioning or the fitting of a specific alternative item of hardware requires an increase in
any dimension of any material which was removed from the door leaf to accommodate the
corresponding item on the prototype door assembly and such increase is likely to affect the
strength of the doorset; and
b) where variation is made in the type of surface mounted closer, the product of the mass of
substitutive closer and the distance of its centre of gravity from the face of the door leaf exceeds
that of the similar item which is mounted on the tested prototype.
D.5.1.2 Any variation shall be approved in accordance with D.1.
D.5.2 Acceptable variation
D.5.2.1 Variations may be made in electroplated or other metallic finishes.
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D.5.2.2 Where any push-plate, metallic plate for a hold open device, or kick plate, is mounted on
the tested prototype or is added as a result of the pilot examination, and is not held on by, or does
not form part of the latchset or lockset furniture, such plate may be reduced in either dimension but
shall not vary in material of construction.
D.5.2.3 The location of the door closer may be varied, provided that the distance of its pivot axis
from the lock stile is not increased and there is no increase in the dimension of any cutout or pocket
which is provided in the door leaf of the tested prototype to accommodate such closer.
D.5.2.4 The location of the latchset or lockset may be varied by up to 40 mm vertically, in either
direction, provided that its distance from the bottom of the door leaf does not exceed 1 200 mm.
D.5.2.5 The backset of a lockset or latchset may be reduced, provided that no encroachment is
made on the structural framework of the door leaf.
NOTE Minor changes may be made in the opening characteristics of latchset or lockset hardware, provided
that these do not require modification of the door leaf or door frame and do not otherwise prejudice the fire
resistance of the doorset. Typically, such changes are functions of key-in-knob latchsets involving a variation in
the knob only and not in the essential bolt-operating mechanisms, or for door closers variations in the hydraulic
system controlling of the delay action of the closer. Where doubt arises as to the acceptability of such
variations, the opinion should be sought of the testing authority that carried out the fire resistance test on the
prototype doorset.
D.5.2.6 Where locksets or latchsets are operated by a steel shaft, their surface mounted furniture
such as handles, knobs and escutcheon plates may be varied provided that:
a) the temperature of fusion of any substitutive part is not lower than that of the corresponding part
on the tested prototype;
b) any substitutive handle or knob is not so massive or assymetrical as to introduce a turning

moment about the operating shaft which exceeds 0,7 N.m or which for a substitutive lever is
more than 10 % greater than the moment induced by the corresponding part on the tested
prototype; and
c) any new escutcheon plate adequately covers any hole in the door leaf formed to accommodate
the lockset or latchset, but does not cover an area which was covered by the corresponding plate
fitted to the tested prototype.
D.5.2.7 A surface mounted self – latching lockset may be fitted to the fire resistant doorset in
addition to the tested lockset, for additional security in residential occupancies. Such an additional
lockset shall meet the following requirements:
a) the hole drilled through the door leaf to accept the locking cylinder shall have a diameter not
greater than 32 mm;
b) the locking cylinder and its fixing plate, shall be made of brass or metal of higher melting point;
the head diameter of the cylinder or its escutcheon shall be larger than the cylinder hole in the
door leaf;
c) the cylinder assembly shall be fixed to the door leaf by steel screws through a steel mounting
plate which effectively covers the hole in the door leaf; and
d) the diameter of the connecting bar clearance hole in the mounting plate shall not be greater than
15 mm.
D.5.2.8 Steel hinges or door leaf restraining devices may be interchanged for the centre hinge of a
three hinge system, if proven by test to have at least equivalent load bearing capacity.
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D.6 Glazing
D.6.1 General
D.6.1.1 The door leaf may be fully glazed, or incorporate glazing panels, provided that the
prototype satisfies the requirements of this standard.
D.6.2 Vision panels and viewing lenses
D.6.2.1 A prior tested single vision panel or viewing lens that complies with 4.4.2 may be
incorporated in a door leaf without additional prototype testing only if:
a) the door leaf is in a side-hung or double-acting fire resistant doorset; and is neither metal-clad
nor metal-framed;
2
b) the area of the vision panel does not exceed 32 000 mm ;
c) the location of the opening does not encroach on the structural framework of the door leaf on
which it is placed; and
d) it has been demonstrated, in a pilot examination of a door incorporating the vision panel or the
viewing lens and similar in construction to the tested prototype, the inclusion of the vision panel
or the viewing lens does not prejudice the achievement of the established fire resistance level of
the prototype.
D.6.2.2 The height of the prototype vision panel or of a vision panel in a tested prototype door leaf,
may be varied by up to 50 % provided that:
a) there is no increase in either the width or area of the vision panel; and
b) the requirements of D.6.2.1 c) are satisfied
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Annex E
(normative)
Installation
E.1 General
E.1.1 The method of installation of any fire resistant doorset should be the same as that for tested
prototype, except if equivalence in installation can be proofed.
E.1.2 Trained personnel should undertake the installation of fire door assemblies.
E.2 Door sill

E.2.1 The sill of the opening in which a fire resistant doorset is mounted should be of concrete or
other material not deemed to be combustible.
E.2.2 For a sliding fire resistant doorset, the sill constructed of such material should project not
less than 100 mm beyond the wall face and extend for a distance of not less than 150 mm on either
side of the opening on the side of the wall on which the fire resistant doorset is mounted.
E.2.3 Materials for floor coverings should comply with the applicable requirements of
SANS 10400.
E.3 Fixing of door frames

E.3.1 The door should be fixed as in the tested and approved prototype.
E.3.2 In a case where an assembly that was tested was of the maximum dimensions that could be
accommodated by the testing authority, the authority may in its report state the maximum
dimensions that it considers to be acceptable.
E.3.3 For masonry construction, walling units and lintels should be entered as deeply as
practicable into the jamb cavities and frame head and jamb cavities should be thoroughly and
progressively grouted in with mortar.
E.3.4 Frames built into masonry walling should be provided with corrosion resistant metal anchors
designed to provide jambs with positive rotational restraint about their vertical axes.
E.3.5 Such anchors should be of similar type to, and not less in number, or greater in spacing
than, those of the tested prototype.
NOTE Where, as construction progresses, the frame is incorporated into the wall, it is recommended that it be
thoroughly and progressively grouted with mortar.
E.4 Allowable variation for fixing of door frames

Where the door frame is to be fixed to the wall, rather than incorporated into the wall as construction
progresses, and where the tested prototype of the doorset was built in as tested, the following shall
apply:
a) the size of the opening should be such that the clearance between the frame and the edge of
the opening does not exceed 10 mm;
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b) where an opening is to be reduced in size to accommodate the frame, the structural adequacy
and fire resistance of the added walling shall be compatible with that of the existing wall;
c) the spacing and location of anchoring points should be equal to that of the prototype, except that
additional anchoring points are acceptable;
d) adequate clearance around the frame should be retained for the purposes of grouting the frame
cavity;
e) jamb cavities should be fully grouted;
f) the head cavity should be grouted in a manner that will prevent the flame passage across the top
of the flame; and
g) where the frame is fixed by the method of threaded anchors, all packers shall be in position and
all threaded anchors should be fully tightened before any grout is placed.
NOTE Annex E.8.2, provides details on two recommended methods of fixing fire resistant door frames to
existing walls of concrete or masonry.
E.5 Hinges
E.5.1 Fixing
E.5.1.1 Unless the hinge flaps are fastened to not less than 25 mm of solid timber, they should be
fixed to the door leaf by machine screws, or self tapping screws, engaging in metal plates, metal
members or metal anchors.
E.5.1.2 When the door leaf is installed, it shall be clear in the frame.
E.5.1.3 The latch bolt shall engage freely with the striking plate.
E.5.1.4 If leafs are removed on site between installation process, the relevant serial numbers of
the door and frame should be matched when re-assembled.
E.5.1.5 Door serial number identification plates should not be painted over or removed.
E.5.2 Alignment
The hinges should be aligned before and after the fitting of the door leaf.
NOTE Experience has clearly demonstrated that misalignment of hinges is a primary cause of failure of fire
resistant doorsets in everyday service, and that the problems are more pronounced in doorsets incorporating
more than two hinges.
E.6 Clearances
E.6.1 Side hung doorsets
For side hung doorsets, door leaves in rebated frames should, when installed, be clear in the frame.
E.6.2 Double acting doorsets

Clearances between the edges of the door leaf and the wall, floor, head and frame should
a) not be greater than that necessary for the operation of the doorset; and
b) in no case exceed the specified tolerances.
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E.6.3 Horizontally sliding doorsets

When closed, the door leaf of horizontally sliding doorsets should:
a) overlap the clear opening by not less than 75 mm at each jamb and by 100 mm at the door head;
and
b) have an average clearance between the face of the door leaf and the return of the frame or wall
face within the area of the required overlap at the top and sides (see E.6.3 (a)) of not more than
10 mm.
NOTE Where interlocking steel sections are fitted to the edges of the leaf, the clearances where these edges
are fitted are limited by the standard fire test
E.7 Hardware and furniture

E.7.1 Attachment
E.7.1.1 All hardware and furniture (other than incidental items such as kick-plates and push-plates,
unless they are fastened to a depth of not more than 25 mm into solid timber) should be attached by
means of screws anchoring in metal plates, metal members, metal thread anchors, expanding
threads inserts or through screw fixing.
E.7.1.2 Split frame type expanding inserts, or inserts fuming below 1 000 °C, should not be used
for fixing.
NOTE These are fixings which have a part placed into a pre-drilled hole. This part then splits outwards to
secure the anchor in position when the fixing is screwed into place.
E.7.2 Latchset
The shoot of the latch bolt for doorsets having a single latch bolt, should
a) not be less than 12,5 mm, and
b) when the doorset is latched be adjusted to freely engage the bolt hole in the frame by a distance
of not less than 9,5 mm past the face of the striking plate.
E.7.3 Frictional forces

When continuously applied perpendicular to the face of the door leaf at a radius of 700 mm from the
pivot centre, and before the closer arm is attached, the force required;
a) to move the door leaf from the fully closed position to the fully open position and return to the
striking plate should not be more than 2 N; and
b) to bring the door leaf to the fully latched condition should not be more than 20 N.
E.7.4 Sensing devices

E.7.4.1 Any prescribed sensing device which operates to effect the closure of automatic fire
resistant doorsets should be positioned within the stream of air that passes through the door
opening when the fire resistant doorset is fully open.
E.7.4.2 Where the device is to be mounted on the ceiling, it should be set back horizontally from
the door opening by a distance of 1,5 m, or of not less than the distance between the ceiling and the
top of the door opening.
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E.7.5 Selective sequence closing devices

Where two leaf doorsets are double acting, they should be installed with no selective sequence
closing device.
E.7.6 Travel limiting device
E.7.6.1 Every side hung or double acting fire resistant doorset should be protected by means of
buffers, stops, or other travel-limiting devices, to prevent damage in any installation where the fire
resistant doorset or its accessories could be subjected to forceful or careless operation.
E.7.6.2 The travel limiting devices should be located so as to minimize strain or racking of the door
leaf.
NOTE A door closer is not considered to be a travel – limiting device for the purpose of this clause.
E.7.7 Counter weighting system for sliding door
E.7.7.1 Protection
E.7.7.1.1 Where a counter weighting system is used to provide automatic closure of sliding fire
doors in a fire, this system should be protected to ensure free operation by means of adequate
guards or enclosures.
E.7.7.1.2 Counterweights should not be less than 150 mm clear of the floor in the door closed
position.
E.7.7.2 Adjustment
E.7.7.2.1 At time of installation, the counterweight system should be adjusted as follows:
E.7.7.2.1.1 where it is necessary to pass through the fire resistant doorset to reach the required
exit, the force required:
a) to move the door from its closed position;
b) to move the door leaf from its stationary position after the release mechanism has operated, or
c) to operate the door leaf from its full travel should not exceed 110 N.
E.7.7.2.1.2 in other cases, the force required should:
a) not exceed 185 N to move the door leaf from its closed and stationary position after the release
mechanism has operated, and
b) not exceed 135 N to operate the door leaf through its full travel.
E.8 Methods for fixing fire-resistant door frames to existing walls of

concrete or masonry
E.8.1 General
E.8.1.1 Under some situations, permission may be given for the fixing of doorsets into prepared
openings in concrete or masonry walls at a time other than when the wall is built. The following are
examples of such situations:
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SANS 1253:2003
Edition 3
a) where fire-resistant doorset openings have to be used during the construction period of any
building and it is not reasonably possible to mask or guard build – in frames to such openings
against possible damage at the time; and
b) where fire-resistant doorsets may have to be inserted in existing structures.
E.8.1.2 Methods for accomplishing the above are limited only by the ingenuity of the builder or
designer and by the need to provide the following;
E.8.1.2.1 stiffening of the frame section by means of
a) fully backfilling the frame cavities at jambs with cement mortar or concrete; and
b) grouting the frame cavity at the head in a manner that will prevent a flame passage across the
top of the frame.
E.8.1.2.2 adequate mechanical restraint for frame sections against any bowing, rotational
movement or dislodgment from the wall which may arise from differential expansion in a fire, door
slam forces or the deadweight of the fire-resistant-doorset.
E.8.1.3 Where frames are exposed to corrosive environment, or where they are external doorsets
exposed to weather, all packing, shims, screws, bolts etc, being part of the anchorage to the wall,
should be corrosion resistant.
E.8.1.4 The surface of the opening into which the frame is to be fixed and grouted should be
suitably prepared to achieve a rough surface, to allow good bonding with the grout.
E.8.1.5 The surface of the opening into which the frame is to be fixed should be of a size to
accommodate the frame.
E.8.1.6 A clearance should be provided around the frame edge to allow grouting from the side and
observation of the anchorage before grouting is proceeded with. Such clearance should not exceed
25 mm.
E.8.2 Methods
E.8.2.1 General
Instead of incorporating the frame in the wall as construction progresses, the following methods are
recommended;
a) fixing by means of bonded hairpin anchors (see figure E.1), or
NOTE This is the preferred method.
b) fixing by means of threaded anchors.
c) After plumbing and bracing, complete the installation by fully grouting the frame cavities with
cement mortar or concrete.
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Edition 3
Figure E.1 — Jamb section
E.8.2.3 Fixing the doorset by means of threaded anchors
The frame should be fixed as follows:
a) At vertical spacings not greater than those given for frame anchors in the prototype, fillet weld
25 mm x 5 mm low carbon or stainless steel connecting straps between both flanges at the back
of the frame (see figure E.2(a) to figure E.2(e)).
Figure E.2(a)
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SANS 1253:2003
Edition 3
Figure E.2(b)
Figure E.2(c)
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Edition 3
Figure E.2(d)
Figure E.2(e)
Figure E.2 — Typical diagrams on the fixing of frames
b) Through the hole (or holes) in each strap, secure the frame into the openings by means of steel –
or brass threaded anchors of not less than 5 mm diameter and of sufficient length to obtain not
less than 25 mm of engagement inside the reveals of the opening. Obtain a true – plumb frame
jamb by placing packers as shown in figures E.2(a) to E.2(e) and figure E.3.
Figure E.3 — Packers for jamb connections
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c) Provide holes in the doorset stop faces for the purpose of entering and tightening the threaded
anchors. Where the heads of threaded anchors are to remain exposed, provide metal sleeves as
shown in figure E.2 (b) or figure E.2 (d). Where the heads of the threaded anchors are to remain
unexposed, fill the holes with a non – shrinking material and leave flush with the surface of the
frame.
d) Complete the installation by fully grouting the frame cavities with cement mortar or concrete.
E.9 Final check

When the installation is complete, the doorsets should be latched from the fully open position and
from any intermediate position, and the closers should demonstrate back-checking action.
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Bibliography
BS 5588-1, Fire precautions in the design, construction and use of buildings – Part 1: Code of
practice for residential buildings.
SANS 193 (SABS 193), Fire dampers.
SANS 9001/ISO 9001 (SABS ISO 9001), Quality management systems – Requirements.
SANS 10400 (SABS 0400), The application of the National Building Regulations.
 Standards South Africa
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ICS 13.220.20. 91.060.

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Fire-doors and fire-shutters

Published by Standards South Africa

2 Normative references ............................................................................................................. 3

5 Inspection and methods of test .............................................................................................. 10

Annex A (normative) Notes to purchasers ............................................................................. 15

Annex B (informative) Notes to manufacturers ........................................................................ 15

Annex C (informative) Quality verifications of fire-doors and fire-shutters ............................... 16

Annex D (normative) Variation from prototype ....................................................................... 16

Annex E (normative) Installation ............................................................................................ 20

This page is intentionally left blank

Fire-doors and fire-shutters

4.1.2 Modifications (see also annex D)

a) a re-evaluation of the door or assembly shall be carried out, and

b) such modifications shall be undertaken by the manufacturer.

4.2 Class and type

A fire-door assembly or fire-shutter assembly shall be of fire resistance class A, B, C, D, E or F (see

Table 1 — Minimum resistance periods

a) single-leaf, hinged, single action;

b) single-leaf, hinged, double action

c) double leaf, hinged, single swing;

d) double leaf, hinged, double action

e) single leaf, horizontal sliding

f) double-leaf, horizontal sliding;

g) multiple-leaf, horizontal sliding;

h) single leaf, vertical sliding;

i) single-leaf, permanently closed; and

j) rolling steel door.

4.3.1 Structural materials

4.3.2 Insulating materials

Insulating material shall

b) not depend on free moisture for their insulating properties.

4.3.3 Intumescent material

4.4 Glazing and hardware (see also annex D)

Hinges (including floor springs) of an assembly shall

a) be capable of supporting the weight of the door,

4.4.5 Closing device

4.4.6 Additional or optional hardware

4.5 Hinged-door assemblies

4.5.1 Closing of hinged doors

4.5.3 Frames (see also annex B and D)

4.5.3.3 Fixing lugs

4.5.3.3.3 Fixing lugs shall be:

a) fitted centrally in the well of the profile;

b) of nominal thickness of at least 1,20 mm;

c) of nominal width of at least 25 mm;

d) of length such that the outstand is at least 150 mm; and

e) within 350 mm of the top of each jamb.

4.5.4 Reliability of operation of hinged-door assembly

When a hinged-door assembly is tested in accordance with 5.3,

a) no part of the assembly shall show any sign of undue wear,

b) the hinges and fastenings shall still operate smoothly, and

4.6 Sliding-door assembly

a) the average floor clearance does not exceed 12 mm, and

4.6.2 Horizontal sliding doors

4.6.2.2 Floor-mounted guide rails shall not be used.

4.6.3 Vertical sliding doors

Vertical sliding doors shall

a) move in protected non-combustible guides,

4.7.2 Sliding doors

4.8 Smoke emission

4.9 Resistance to fire

a) a straight-through gap of width that exceeds 10 mm, and