The Ontario Fire Code (OFC) sets out specific requirements for fire-rated doors in commercial and multi-unit residential buildings. For property managers and building owners, understanding these requirements is essential — not just for compliance, but for the safety of occupants and the protection of your investment. Non-compliant fire doors can result in failed building inspections, insurance claim denials, and significant liability in the event of a fire.
Fire-rated doors are designed to resist the passage of fire and smoke for a specified period — typically 20 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, or 90 minutes, depending on the application. The required fire rating depends on the occupancy type, the door's location within the building, and the fire separation it is part of. A door separating a corridor from a stairwell shaft typically requires a higher rating than a door between two offices.
Under the OFC, fire doors must be self-closing and self-latching. This means they must automatically close and latch when released — not just close. Doors propped open with doorstops or wedges are a code violation and a serious fire risk. Automatic door openers are permitted on fire doors, but they must be connected to the building's fire alarm system and fail-safe to close when the alarm is triggered.
Hardware is critical. Fire doors must use certified hardware — latches, hinges, closers, and seals that are rated for use with fire door assemblies. Substituting non-rated hardware on a fire door assembly, even for seemingly minor components, can void the door's fire rating certification. At Arev, we use exclusively certified hardware on all fire door installations and provide full documentation of the components used.
Annual inspection requirements are often overlooked. The Ontario Fire Code requires that fire doors be inspected at least annually by a qualified person. The inspection must confirm that the door closes and latches properly, seals are intact, hardware is functioning, and the door has not been modified from its certified configuration. We offer annual inspection and maintenance agreements for commercial clients — contact us to discuss keeping your building compliant.
If your building needs new fire-rated doors — whether for a renovation, a change of occupancy, or to address deficiencies noted in an inspection — Arev Windows & Doors can help. Our commercial team specializes in Ontario Fire Code compliant installations and provides all documentation required for your building inspector and insurance carrier. Call us at 437-431-0861 to discuss your project.