Do handles have to be fire rated?

[Guest KarlW]

Hi, I'd like to know if there are restrictions on the sort of handle I can use on a fire door. The handle in question is screwed on, and made of aluminium.
Also, can I bolt the handle on? ie. drill through the door for the bolts, the bolts would be covered by an existing brass plate on the inside of the door (restaurant kitchen - door leads to hallway).
Thanks

[Neil Ashdown MAFDI]

Hi KarlW,

You don't say if its a timber door or metal door? Generally speaking, handles do not need to be fire rated and subject to fixing methods and size of handles they should not affect the fire performance of the door.  

Again generally speaking, where a door handle 'bolts through' a timber-based door leaf the fixing holes must be tight (hole to be max 1mm greater diameter than that of the through-fixings) and suitable  intumescent mastic or intumescent gasket material should be applied around the bolt-through fixings. Handles should be fitted only at the lock-block and at about mid-height. If you are at all unsure about this task on a fire door you should seek help from a competent person.