Are Fire Door Signs Legally Required?
Yes. Under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire doors in non-domestic premises must carry appropriate signage. This includes HMOs, commercial buildings, flats over a certain size, and workplaces.
What UK Law Requires — Every fire door must be clearly identified as a fire door via appropriate signage. The most common signs are "Fire Door Keep Shut" and "Fire Door Keep Locked."
Types Of Fire Door Signs
Fire Door Keep Shut
Used on self-closing fire doors that should normally be closed but can be opened for passage. The most common fire door sign in HMOs, flats and offices.
Fire Door Keep Locked Shut
Used on fire doors that should remain permanently closed and locked. Typical for plant rooms, storage areas and service cupboards.
Fire Door Keep Closed (Automatic)
Used on magnetic hold-open fire doors that close automatically when the fire alarm sounds.
Fire Exit Keep Clear
Used on fire exit doors that must be kept clear of obstruction — different from "Keep Shut."
Where Should Fire Door Signs Be Fitted?
- Both sides of the door — every fire door should have signs on BOTH faces
- Top of door leaf — typically 1.5m to 2m height for visibility
- Centred on the door — never obscured by handles or vision panels
- Permanent fixing — screwed, riveted or professionally adhered
- Not removable stickers — cheap stickers fall off and create compliance issues
UK Sign Size Standards
While there is no single mandated size, signs should be clearly visible from normal viewing distance. Common sizes in UK fire door signage:
| Viewing Distance | Minimum Sign Size |
|---|---|
| Up to 5 metres | 50mm x 50mm (smallest) |
| 5-10 metres | 100mm x 100mm (standard) |
| 10-20 metres | 150mm x 150mm |
| Over 20 metres | 200mm x 200mm+ |
Colours And Design
Fire door signs must use the correct colours per BS 5499 (UK safety sign standard):
- Blue background, white text — for mandatory signs like "Fire Door Keep Shut"
- Green background, white text — for safe condition signs like "Fire Exit"
- Red background — for prohibition signs only
⚠️ Compliance Tip: A fire door without appropriate signage can fail a fire safety inspection — even if the door itself is perfectly fitted. Signs cost £2-5 each but are often overlooked by DIY landlords.
Doorz Fire Door Signage Service
When Doorz London installs or surveys fire doors, we check signage compliance and can supply and fit appropriate signs as part of our service. Full compliance documentation provided for every job.
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The information on this page is provided as general guidance only and may contain errors or inaccuracies. Doorz London Ltd makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content but cannot guarantee it is complete or up to date. UK building regulations, fire safety law and industry standards change regularly. Nothing on this website constitutes legal, professional or regulatory advice. Always consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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