Inspection Procedures, Field Testing and Documentation
Prepare and inspect systematically
Good inspection begins before the field: obtain prior reports, door schedules, ratings, and building information; confirm access and notification. Use a consistent checklist covering labels, frame, hinges, gaps, closer, latching, coordinator, seals, glazing, threshold, hold-opens, signage, and obstructions. Test functionally: open the door fully, release it, and watch it close and latch without assistance. Check both leaves and both sides. Use a gap gauge rather than a visual guess. Never disable a fire alarm or door hardware without authorization, and never force a binding door.
Document defensibly
Record a unique door ID, location, rating, hardware, deficiencies, photos, date, inspector, and recommended corrective action. Distinguish safety deficiencies from cosmetic notes. Report conditions, not opinions, and avoid stating that a door passes beyond your scope. Keep records per NFPA 80 and AHJ requirements, and schedule reinspection of corrected items.
Traps
Questions often hinge on testing only the active leaf, checking a door from one side, trusting a label that is painted over, or documenting OK without measurements. Another trap is adjusting the door during inspection; if you repair it, document the repair and recognize the independence issue.
Worked example: the head gap measures 1/4 in. on a steel fire door. That exceeds the typical 1/8 in. tolerance, so record it as a deficiency and recommend adjustment or repair by qualified personnel.
Rule of thumb: inspect the way fire will test it: fully open, self-close, positive latch.