British ratings: FD and S
FD ratings come from BS 476-22 tests. FD30 means 30 minutes of integrity. An S suffix means the doorset also passed the BS 476-31.1 smoke leakage test.
European ratings: E, EI, Sa and S200
European classifications under BS EN 13501-2 come from BS EN 1634-1 fire tests and BS EN 1634-3 smoke tests. E is integrity; EI adds insulation, limiting heat on the unexposed face; Sa is smoke control at ambient temperature; S200 covers smoke at medium temperature too.
Which will you see on specifications?
Approved Document B removes the BS 476 fire resistance parts on 2 September 2029, so new specifications in England are moving to EN classifications. Plenty of existing doors and evidence still use FD ratings, and both will be around for years.
Does EI matter for doors?
Most fire doors only need integrity (E). Insulation (EI) matters where people may pass close to the door or glazing during a fire, such as some escape routes, or where the fire strategy calls for it.
Common questions
Is E30 the same as FD30?
Broadly, yes — both mean 30 minutes of integrity, from different test standards.
What does FD30S mean in European terms?
Typically E30 Sa.
Doorsets mentioned in this guide
FD30S Smoke Control Doorsets
30-minute doorsets with tested smoke seals for flats, corridors and stairs.
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Glazed Fire Doors
Vision panels and fully glazed doorsets with tested fire-resistant glass.
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FD30 Fire Doorsets
30-minute certified doorsets — the workhorse of flats, offices and HMOs.
View doorsetsMore guides
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