Pronunciation: [fˈa͡ɪ͡ə dˈɔː] (IPA) 
The word "fire door" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /faɪər dɔːr/. The first syllable is pronounced as "fie-er" with a long "i" sound, while the second syllable is "daw-r" with a silent "e". This word refers to a specific type of door that is designed to prevent the spread of fire within a building. It is crucial for ensuring the safety of occupants and for complying with building codes and regulations.
A fire door is a specialized door designed to resist the spread of fire and smoke within a building or structure, providing a crucial barrier for fire containment. It is constructed using fire-resistant materials that can withstand high temperatures and intense heat for a specified period, thereby facilitating the safe evacuation of occupants and preventing the rapid spread of flames.
These doors are designed to meet certain fire safety standards and are typically installed in areas where fire risk is high, such as stairwells, corridors, and openings in fire-rated walls. They are classified based on their fire resistance rating, which indicates the amount of time they can withstand the effects of fire, heat, and smoke before compromising their integrity.
Fire doors are equipped with fire-resistant glazing or solid panels, along with intumescent seals, which expand when exposed to heat to further prevent the passage of fire and smoke. They also feature self-closing mechanisms, ensuring that they automatically close and latch when not in use to restrict the spread of fire and maintain fire compartments.
Regular inspection and maintenance of fire doors are essential to ensure their effectiveness. This includes checking for proper operation, intact seals, and the absence of damage or obstructions that may hinder their functionality. Additionally, it is vital to never prop or block fire doors open, as this compromises their purpose and puts people and property at risk.
The etymology of the word "fire door" is derived from the combination of the words "fire" and "door".
- "Fire" originates from the Middle English word "fir(e)" and the Old English word "fȳr". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Gothic "faihu" and the Old Norse "fjǫr".
- "Door" comes from the Middle English word "doore" and the Old English word "duru". Its origins can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*durz" and are also related to the Old Norse "dyrr" and Old High German "turi".
When combined, "fire door" refers to a specialized door designed to prevent the spread of fire or smoke between different sections of a building, enabling safe evacuation and limiting the damage caused by fire incidents.
