Q: I believe you may have answered aspects of this question before but I was having trouble locating it again. I understand the difference between hazardous areas when considering new vs. existing construction as far as the requirements of the door. So, new construction hazardous room would require 1-hour fire-rated walls and a 45-minute self-closing, positive latching door. But does the door also have to comply with NFPA 80 for clearances and fire-rated hardware? The occupancies I am asking about are healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes.

A: Yes, anytime a door is required to be fire-rated, it must comply with NFPA 80-2010. Section 6.3.1.7.1 limits the gap between the edge of the door and the frame to be no more than 1/8-inch. And section 6.4.4.1 says only labeled fire exit hardware, locks, and latches are permitted for use on a fire-rated door.