Approved Fire Door Sign Wording (UK)

Incorrect or improvised wording is a common reason signage is flagged during an FRA (Fire Risk Assessment).

This page is for landlords, managing agents and facilities managers who need to ensure fire door signage uses wording that inspectors recognise and accept.

Why wording matters

Fire door signage communicates clear behavioural instructions that support compartmentation and safe escape.

Inspectors generally expect wording that is:

• familiar
• unambiguous
• consistent with recognised guidance

Unusual phrasing can result in remedial actions even when a sign is present.

Commonly accepted fire door sign wording

The most widely recognised phrases include:

• Fire Door Keep Shut
• Fire Door Keep Locked
• Automatic Fire Door Keep Clear

These short, direct instructions are commonly referenced in inspection reports.

Wording that may be challenged

FRAs (Fire Risk Assessments) sometimes question signage that:

• uses alternative phrases (e.g., “Keep Closed” instead of “Keep Shut”)
• is overly long
• includes branding that obscures the instruction
• is not immediately legible

Using standard wording reduces uncertainty and makes inspection outcomes more consistent.

Where wording problems appear in FRA reports

Inspectors frequently note:

• “Signage not to recognised wording”
• “Inconsistent notices across doors”
• “Instruction unclear”

These are normally simple fixes.

How wording issues are typically resolved

Usually by replacing signs with versions that use standard, widely accepted wording and are clearly visible.