Guangdun Fire Doors: Extending Life Pathways by 5400 Seconds Evacuation doors and fire doors may sound similar and serve seemingly related purposes, but are they truly the same? Here, Guangdun Door Industry clarifies the distinctions between the two. Evacuation DoorsAlso known as safety doors, evacuation doors are external doors or stairwell doors in buildings that […]
Tag Archives: the Difference Between Evacuation Doors and Fire Doors
Key Differences Between Evacuation Doors and Fire Doors
1. Primary Purpose
| Feature | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Main Function | Safe, rapid exit during emergencies | Block fire/smoke spread (compartmentation) |
| Usage Scenario | Final exit routes, panic situations | Fire-rated walls, stairwells, corridors |
2. Design Specifications
| Parameter | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Direction | Outward swing only (panic hardware) | Typically inward swing (with self-closer) |
| Hardware | Push bars, touchpad releases | Fire-rated hinges/locks |
| Lock Mechanism | Always unlockable under pressure | May have controlled access during fire |
3. Fire Performance
| Characteristic | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Rating | Usually 30-60 mins (if rated) | 30-240 mins (mandatory rating) |
| Smoke Control | Basic seals (if any) | Intumescent + cold smoke seals |
| Certification | EN 1125 (panic) / ANSI 156.3 | EN 1634 / UL 10C / GB 12955 |
4. Construction Features
| Element | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Core Material | Lightweight (hollow metal/honeycomb) | Mineral wool/vermiculite |
| Glazing | Large vision panels (breakable if needed) | Fire-rated glass (ceramic/wired) |
| Frame | Standard aluminum/steel | Steel with thermal breaks |
5. Installation Requirements
| Aspect | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Direct exit paths, <30m from hazard | Fire compartment boundaries |
| Clear Width | ≥900mm (building code dependent) | ≥800mm typically |
| Signage | Illuminated “EXIT” signs mandatory | Fire door identification signs |
6. Operational Differences
| Behavior | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| During Fire | Remains unlocked/open for egress | Automatically closes to contain fire |
| Daily Use | Free passage at all times | May be kept closed (magnetic hold-open) |
7. Maintenance Focus
| Checkpoint | Evacuation Door | Fire Door |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Items | Push bar sensitivity, exit path clearance | Seal integrity, closer function |
| Test Frequency | Monthly operational tests | Quarterly full inspections |
8. Cost Comparison
| Type | Price Range (USD) | Cost Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Evacuation | $800-$1,500 | Panic hardware, size |
| Standard Fire | $1,200-$3,000 | Rating duration, core material |
| Combined System* | $2,500-$5,000 | Dual-certified hardware |
*Doors meeting both panic and fire-rating requirements
9. Regulatory References
Evacuation Doors: IBC Chapter 10, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
Fire Doors: IBC Chapter 7, NFPA 80, EN 13501-2
10. Hybrid Solutions
Some high-security facilities use fire-rated evacuation doors featuring:
Panic hardware with fusible links
60+ minute fire resistance
Electromagnetic hold-open devices
