Maximum Vision Panel Sizes for Fire Doors in New Zealand

Vision panels are an important part of fire door design. They improve visibility, support accessibility, and contribute to a more open feel within a building. However, the maximum allowable vision panel size can vary significantly between manufacturers, and incorrect assumptions may result in non‑compliant fire door systems.

Always confirm the approved sizes and configurations with your supplier before specifying or ordering fire doors.

Soteria Doors provides tested vision panel configurations to meet compliance requirements under the New Zealand Building Code and NZ Standards. Below are the maximum sizes available within our Infernoguard FD30 and Infernoguard FD60 fire door systems, based on proven fire‑test evidence.

Infernoguard FD30 (30‑Minute Fire Door) – Maximum Vision Panel Sizes

Maximum Clearview Size

  • 1775mm (height) × 500mm (width)
  • Maximum Area: 0.85m²

 

Approved Configurations

  • Single vision panels — up to the maximum height, width, and area listed above.
  • Multiple vision panels — each pane must meet the max height and width limits.
    Total glazed area across all panes must not exceed 0.85m².

 

Minimum Distance Requirements

  • Vision panels must be at least 170mm from any edge of the door.
  • For multiple panels, there must be a minimum of 170mm between panes.
  • Vision panel cut‑outs must be at least 50mm away from any hardware cut‑out.

 

Available Shapes

  • Square or rectangular vision panel options available.

 

Infernoguard FD60 (60‑Minute Fire Door) – Maximum Vision Panel Sizes

Maximum Clearview Size

  • 1006mm (height) × 206mm (width)
  • Maximum Area: 0.207m²

 

Approved Configurations

  • Only one pane per door leaf is permitted.
  • Maximum height, width, and area limits apply to the single vision panel.

 

Minimum Distance Requirements

  • Minimum 170mm from any door edge.
  • Minimum 200mm from the top of the door.
  • Vision panel cut‑outs must be at least 90mm from any hardware cut‑out.

 

Available Shapes

  • Square or rectangular vision panels available.

 

Fire Testing & Compliance

All information provided above is supported by proven fire‑testing evidence in accordance with NZS 4520:2010.
Always check project‑specific requirements and confirm compatibility with hardware, wall types, and installation conditions to ensure full system compliance.

Summary

  • Vision panel sizes vary between fire door manufacturers – always confirm early.
  • Soteria Doors provides tested and compliant options for both FD30 and FD60 fire doors.
  • Correct spacing, maximum area limitations, and hardware clearances are critical to maintaining the fire rating.
  • All configurations must adhere to tested data and NZ Standards.

 

If you need help selecting the correct vision panel size or confirming compliance for your project, Soteria Doors can provide guidance and supporting documentation.