The event in September, the idea of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), united the fire door industry to raise greater awareness of the critical role of fire doors.
A radio campaign reached 2.7 million listeners across England, while on the social media front almost 2 million impressions were generated from Twitter alone.
As well as manufacturers, the event received backing from trade associations, housing associations, manufacturers, suppliers and the emergency services.
The Fire Door Safety Week website had more than 4,000 hits over the seven days, with 2,600 page views for a toolkit containing downloadable promotional items for the campaign.
“The campaign was really encouraging, but there are about three million new fire doors bought and installed every year in the UK, the vast majority made from timber,” said Iain McIlwee, BWF chief executive.
“In a recent review of 100 cases prosecuted under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire doors were the second highest reason for prosecutions.”
Fire doors’ performance can be compromised by incorrect doors and components being specified or brought onto site, while 65% of correctly specified and installed doors were wedged open and 85% had door closers disconnected.
