What is the purpose of fire windows?

Fire windows serve an important function in maintaining safety during a fire incident. Specifically, they are designed to provide vision panels in or next to fire doors. This feature allows personnel to see through the door, ensuring visibility when assessing conditions on the other side. It enhances safety by allowing firefighters or other responders to make informed decisions before opening a door.

The construction of fire windows typically incorporates materials that can withstand high temperatures, which helps prevent the spread of flames and smoke through fire-rated assemblies. They are essential in ensuring communication and visibility in environments where safety is a priority.

While ventilation, light entry, and smoke prevention are important factors in fire safety, they are not the specific purpose of fire windows. Fire windows focus primarily on visibility and communication, particularly in situations where fire doors are present.