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Can fire doors be held open?
Only with a suitable device that releases the door automatically when the fire alarm sounds. Wedges, door stops and fire extinguishers are never acceptable.
Last reviewed October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
Why it happens
Fire doors are heavy and busy. People prop them for air, deliveries, accessibility or to keep an eye on a corridor. A propped fire door protects nothing.
The legal options
| Option | How it works |
|---|---|
| Hold-open device | Holds the door open magnetically and releases it when the alarm sounds |
| Free-swing closer | Lets the door move like a normal door, then closes it when the alarm sounds |
| Acoustic release | Releases the door when it hears the alarm (check it suits your alarm and building) |
Each of these should be covered by your fire risk assessment and tested along with the fire alarm. Most are linked to the alarm system, so they’re worth raising with whoever maintains it.
Never acceptable
- Wedges, door stops or hooks
- Fire extinguishers or furniture
- Disconnecting or removing the closer
Next guide: Building works, new services and fire stopping