Which TOP 3 Fire Rated Access Hatches Are Worth Your Consideration?

When it comes to ensuring the safety and integrity of commercial buildings, choosing the right fire rated access hatch is crucial. Not only do these hatches provide access to essential building systems, but they also play a key role in slowing the spread of fire and smoke for a specified period of time, helping to protect both property and occupants. With numerous options available on the market, it can be difficult to decide which fire-rated access hatch is best for your specific project. 

In this article, we’ll explore the TOP 3 fire rated access hatches you should consider for your next commercial construction or renovation project. We’ll cover their key features, benefits, and why they’re worth your investment. Plus, we’ll guide you to links where you can explore each model further. 

1. BA-FRFD Fire Rated Floor Hatch

When it comes to fire-rated floor hatches, the BA-FRFD Fire Rated Floor Hatch stands out as one of the most reliable choices on the market. Designed to slow the spread of fire for a limited time, while offering easy access to building utilities, this hatch is engineered to withstand high temperatures while still providing the durability and security you need in a commercial setting. 

Key Features: 

• Fire Rating: 1.5-hour fire rating, ensuring that the hatch can slow the spread of fire and smoke in the event of an emergency. 

• Heavy-Duty Construction: Built from robust steel to ensure long-lasting durability, even in high-traffic areas. 

• Lockable Option: As previously mentioned in our other articles, this hatch can be equipped with locking mechanisms for added security, making it perfect for areas requiring restricted access. 

• Easy Installation: The BA-FRFD is designed for seamless installation in commercial and industrial floors, minimizing downtime. 

For more details, visit the product page. 

2. BA-FRI Fire Rated Insulated Access Hatch

If your project demands a fire rated access hatch that also provides insulation, look no further than the BA-FRI Fire Rated Insulated Access Hatch. This model not only slows the spread of fire and smoke, but also helps maintain temperature control within the building, reducing energy costs over time. 

Key Features: 

• 2-Hour Fire Rating: This access hatch is tested to provide two full hours of fire resistance, making it ideal for high-risk areas such as mechanical rooms or electrical panel enclosures. 

• Thermal Insulation: The BA-FRI is fully insulated to slow the spread of fire and provides thermal efficiency, helping to maintain stable interior temperatures. 

• Corrosion Resistance: With a corrosion-resistant coating, this hatch is suitable for a wide range of environments, including those exposed to moisture and chemical vapors. 

• Smooth Operation: The hinged design allows for easy opening and closing, ensuring regular access without compromising the fire rating. 

Explore this model further. 

3. BA-FRFD-HS High-Security Fire Rated Floor Hatch

For projects requiring both fire protection and enhanced security, the BA-FRFD-HS High-Security Fire Rated Floor Hatch is a top contender. This model is specifically designed for areas that need restricted access, such as utility rooms, data centers, or other sensitive spaces within a building. 

Key Features: 

• Fire Rated for 1.5 Hours: This hatch is rated to provide 1.5 hours of fire resistance, keeping fire contained and ensuring the safety of building occupants. 

• High-Security Locking Mechanism: Equipped with advanced locking options, this fire rated floor access hatch is ideal for protecting critical systems from unauthorized access. 

• Heavy-Duty Materials: Constructed from durable steel with a reinforced frame, the BA-FRFD-HS is built to withstand not only fire but also attempts at tampering or forced entry. 

• Anti-Corrosion Finish: Like our other models, this hatch features a corrosion-resistant finish, making it suitable for a range of environments. 

Learn more about this model. 

Why Fire Rated Access Hatches Matter 

Choosing a fire rated access hatch is not just about providing access to essential building systems. These hatches are vital for slowing the spread of fire and smoke in commercial buildings, for a specific period of time. Whether you're working on a new build or a renovation, incorporating fire-rated hatches into your project ensures compliance with fire codes and regulations. 

Fire-rated floor access hatches also serve dual purposes by providing security and protecting sensitive equipment, such as electrical systems, plumbing, or data cabling, from fire damage. Additionally, their aesthetic options, such as recessed designs that blend with surrounding flooring, make them an excellent choice for architects and interior designers. 

Choosing the Right Fire Rated Access Hatch for Your Project 

When selecting the best fire-rated access hatch, consider the following: 

• Fire Rating: How much time does the hatch need to resist fire to meet building codes? 

• Location: Consider whether the access hatch will be installed in high-traffic areas, which may require higher load ratings and durability. 

• Security Needs: If the hatch provides access to critical systems, opt for a model with a lockable option. 

• Insulation: In environments where temperature control is important, an insulated hatch will add energy efficiency benefits. 

Choose Industry-Leading Protection 

When it comes to fire safety, not all access hatches are created equal. The BA-FRFD Fire Rated Floor Hatch, BA-FRI Fire Rated Insulated Access Hatch, and BA-FRFD-HS High-Security Fire Rated Floor Hatch stand out as the top three models worth your consideration. These hatches offer industry-leading fire protection, durability, and additional features that cater to both safety and security needs in commercial buildings. 

To ensure compliance with fire safety standards, check out these authoritative resources: 

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

• International Code Council (ICC)

If you have questions about our fire-rated access doors or any other Best Access Doors models, give us a call at 1-800-483-0823. Our product experts would love to help!