Yes, it is permitted to install a louver in a fire-rated steel door, provided that a specifically approved louver is used and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The louver must be equipped with a certified fusible link that closes automatically the louver in case of heat. Louver installation is permitted for doors with a maximum fire resistance of 90 minutes, with only one louver per leaf, in either a single or double configuration.
Louvers must be in the lower part of the door, no more than 40 inches (1016 mm) from the floor, with a maximum size of 24″ x 24″ (610 x 610 mm).
Important Fire Restrictions, not permitted:
• In doors with a 20-minute fire resistance rating.
• In smoke-controlled doors.
• In doors that have a mineral core with reduced heat transfer.
• In fire-resistant doors for emergency exits, stairwells, or double-egress doors.
• In doors that have glazed openings.
• In fire-resistant Dutch doors.
• In fire-resistant transoms, fire-resistant skylights, or fire-resistant side panels.
• In many types of doors, like acoustic, lead-lined, and bulletproof doors.
Maximum opening dimensions for fire doors:
• Single: 4’ x 10’ (1219 x 3048 mm)
• Double: 8’ x 10’ (2438 x 3048 mm)
For more information, please consult:
• NAAMM/HMMA 850-14
• NFPA 80
• SDI-118-01
• The National Building Code of Canada (NBC)
