Overview: Learn how Won-Door accordion fire doors provide compliant fire separation without permanent walls in healthcare and commercial facilities!   

Fire separation is one of the most critical components of life safety design. Traditionally, fire-rated walls have been used to divide buildings into compartments that slow the spread of smoke and flames.

But not every facility can rely solely on fixed walls.

Hospitals, schools, airports, and large commercial buildings often require flexible spaces that adapt to daily operations. That’s where Won-Door accordion fire doors provide a powerful solution, offering code-compliant fire separation without permanently closing off space.

Why Some Facilities Cannot Rely on Fixed Fire Walls Alone  

Permanent fire-rated walls are effective, but they limit flexibility.

In environments such as healthcare and education, buildings must support:

• Open corridors

• Large gathering areas

• Multi-use spaces

• Clear sight lines for supervision

• Rapid traffic flow

Installing permanent barriers in these areas can disrupt functionality. Yet fire safety requirements still apply.

This balance between openness and protection is where accordion fire doors come into play.

Also Read >> Fire Walls Vs. Fire Resistant Walls

How Won-Doors Create Fire Compartments Without Permanent Barriers  

Won-Door systems are accordion-style fire-rated doors designed to remain open during normal operations and automatically deploy during a fire event.

When triggered by the fire alarm system, they:

• Close along a designated path

• Form a fire-rated barrier

• Contain smoke and flames

• Support compartmentation requirements

Once deployed, the door functions similarly to a fire-rated wall — but without permanently dividing the space.

What Makes Won-Doors Different from Standard Fire Doors?  

Unlike traditional swinging or sliding fire doors, Won-Doors are engineered specifically for wide openings and large spans.

They are often used in:

• Hospital corridors

• Atriums

• Long egress pathways

• Assembly spaces

Their accordion design allows them to stack compactly when open, preserving clear space and traffic flow until needed.

How Do Won-Doors Support Code Compliance?  

Fire compartmentation is required by building and life safety codes to slow the spread of fire and provide occupants with safe evacuation time.

Won-Door systems are:

• Fire-rated and tested assemblies

• Designed to integrate with fire alarm systems

• Engineered to meet code requirements for compartmentation

• Suitable for healthcare and commercial occupancy classifications

Proper specification and installation are essential to ensure compliance with applicable local and national codes.

Why Flexibility Matters in Modern Facility Design  

Modern buildings are designed for adaptability. Healthcare facilities expand. Schools reconfigure. Commercial spaces evolve.

Fixed walls can limit future modifications and restrict operational flow. Fire-rated accordion doors allow facilities to maintain open layouts while still meeting safety requirements.

This flexibility supports:

• Patient visibility in hospitals

• Crowd movement in large venues

• Operational efficiency in commercial settings

• Future renovations or reconfigurations

What Should Facilities Consider Before Installing Won-Doors?   

Successful implementation depends on:

• Correct fire rating selection

• Integration with alarm and life safety systems

• Proper mounting and track support

• Professional installation and inspection

Because these systems play a critical role in life safety, expert evaluation and compliance-focused installation are essential.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)   

What is a Won-Door?  

A Won-Door is a fire-rated accordion-style door system designed to create fire compartments without permanent walls.

Are Won-Doors code compliant?  

When properly specified and installed, Won-Doors are tested and rated systems that meet fire separation requirements under applicable building codes.

Where are Won-Doors typically used?  

They are commonly installed in hospitals, schools, airports, and large commercial buildings where flexible open spaces are required.

Supporting Life Safety Without Sacrificing Space     

Fire separation does not have to mean permanent walls and restricted layouts. With properly specified and installed Won-Door systems, facilities can maintain open, functional environments while meeting strict fire safety standards.

For guidance on fire-rated accordion door systems and commercial fire separation solutions, Barr Commercial Door provides experienced, compliance-driven support tailored to complex facility needs.