- Overview
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- Content Overview
Fire safety is one of the most important aspects of construction and maintenance. With growing attention from the industry and the public, there is a heightened need for robust inspection processes across all property types – requiring trained and qualified professionals.
The Level 3 Award in Fire Door Inspection is a qualification awarded by ABBE (the Awarding Body for the Built Environment). This fire door inspector qualification begins with a two-day classroom-based training course, designed to offer a more practical, supportive, and in-depth learning experience.
We have extended the course to two days in direct response to feedback from our learners, who asked for more support in compiling their fire door inspector qualification portfolios. The updated format includes additional hands-on classroom exercises focusing on:
- Fire door inspection procedures
- Identification of fire door types and components
- Practical application of key concepts through assessed activities
These practical elements are now an integral part of the course, and the outputs from these exercises can contribute directly to your portfolio of evidence. You’ll also benefit from dedicated trainer support during the course to guide you through the process of compiling and submitting your portfolio.
We continually review and update our course materials to reflect any legislative changes in fire safety regulations, including the introduction of the “golden thread”- a critical part of managing building safety information. Our revised materials ensure that you gain relevant, up-to-date knowledge and are equipped to apply it confidently in your work environment.
Qualification process:
Following the two-day course, you will continue working toward the Level 3 Award in Fire Door Inspection, consisting of four units. You are required to complete a portfolio of evidence that will be reviewed and assessed by qualified assessors. You have up to 12 months to complete your portfolio, but you can complete your portfolio much quicker if you want. The qualification confirms you’re competent to carry out fire door inspections across all property types in line with UK legislation.
You will be assigned a dedicated, experienced assessor who will review your submissions, provide feedback, and support you throughout the assessment process.
A copy of the qualification handbook can be downloaded from abbeqa.co.uk.
Please note that this qualification is restricted to individuals aged 18 or over.
Learning outcomes:
- A thorough understanding of the standards applying to fire doors
- Knowledge of different fire door types
- An appreciation of critical components, such as door closers and hinges
- A clear understanding of the inspection procedure and pass/fail criteria
- The ability to offer appropriate advice to building owners/clients following an inspection
Please note that attending a fire door training course alone does not constitute evidence of competency. BRE can confirm only that an individual has attended the training and the content it covered. However, this course, alongside professional experience and observation, can contribute toward demonstrating competency.
We regularly review and update our fire door training courses to ensure they reflect the latest legislation, guidance, and best practices. Regular re-training also supports professional development and helps maintain high standards across the industry.
At a glance
This fire door inspector qualification is suitable for those who will undertake fire door inspections including Building Control Officers, Safety Inspectors, Insurers, Fire Risk Assessors, Fire Professionals and Facilities Managers.
Requirements
You should have a basic knowledge of the importance of fire doors and be comfortable with inspection processes and procedures. We recommend that you read the qualification handbook so that you are fully aware of what is required of you to complete this Level 3 Fire Door Inspection course.
This qualification is restricted to over 18s only.
This qualification starts with a comprehensive two-day training course, followed by a period of self-learning and the completion of a professional portfolio over the following 12-month period:
- The functions of fire doors
- Standards
- Fire safety duties of owners and occupiers
- Fire tests
- Evidence of performance
- Timber fire doors, steel fire doors, glazed steel fire screens and roller shutter doors
- Glazing, seals, structure and surrounding construction
- Installation, repair, maintenance, inspection, pass/fail guidance
The qualification portfolio will include the following:
- Detailed risk assessments to show how you will work in a safe and professional manner
- Written answers to questions in a workbook that covers the learning outcomes for the qualification.
- Detailed examples of fire door inspections with supporting evidence and narrative to show your knowledge and understanding of the process for carrying out an inspection of a fire door.
Your portfolio submissions will be assessed by an experienced and qualified assessor. Successful completion of the four units of this qualification will allow you to achieve the Level 3 Award Certificate from ABBE, the Awarding Body for the Built Environment.
You will have up to 12 months in which to complete your portfolio.
Your portfolio of evidence will be submitted via our electronic system for assessment and feedback.
On completion of the qualification, ABBE will issue an electronic version of the certificate.
A hard copy can be obtained from ABBE, but this is subject to an additional charge from them.
About BRE Academy
The BRE Academy is the leading training provider for the built environment. Most courses are developed by BRE – a science research hub with 100 years of experience in safety and sustainability. As a profit-for-purpose, all fees go towards further research to make the built environment safer and greener and to mitigate climate change.
Recognised CPD
CPD hours are awarded upon successful completion of BRE Academy training courses.
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9/10 rating awarded to our trainers
100 years of experience in the built environment
BRE is a profit-for-purpose organisation, investing revenue into research including updates and the creation of further training courses
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Level 3 Fire Door Inspection course for?
It’s ideal for building control officers, fire risk assessors, facilities managers, and other professionals responsible for checking fire doors in commercial or residential buildings. The course develops the skills and evidence needed to gain a formal fire door inspector qualification.
How long does the Fire Door Inspection training take?
The course runs over two classroom days followed by self-study to complete your portfolio. You can submit evidence at any time within 12 months, although most learners finish well before the deadline.
What qualification will I receive after training?
Successful learners receive the ABBE Level 3 Award in Fire Door Inspection. This is a formal UK qualification recognised across the built environment sector.
Do I need previous experience to enrol?
Basic knowledge of fire safety and building maintenance is helpful but not essential. The two-day training provides guided support and assessment to help new inspectors build confidence with real-world examples.
Does this course make me a competent fire door inspector?
The qualification forms part of demonstrating competence. Alongside professional experience and continued practice, it shows that you understand current fire door inspection standards and can apply them safely in your work.
Is funding available for the Fire Door Inspection course?
Yes. CITB funding is available for eligible candidates working in the construction industry. BRE Academy can advise on application criteria during booking.
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