HARDWARE & SECURITY necessary for fire safety – must be carefully specified to ensure they do not create undue difficulty . At the same time , they must be able to retain performance in the event of a fire .
BS 8300-2 outlines that doors should require no more than 30N to open from 0 ° to 30 °, and no more than 22.5N from 30 ° to 60 °. If standard door closers cannot achieve these limits , alternative solutions such as swing-free devices or electromagnetic hold-open units should be considered .
Clear opening widths
Doorways must be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids commonly used by care home residents .
BS 8300-2 specifies the minimum effective clear widths required for doorways , with a recommended clear opening width of 800mm to 825mm for most applications . This ensures that doorways provide adequate space for all users .
Lever handle design
Lever handles are a preferred choice in care homes due to their ease of use , especially for residents with limited dexterity . They also allow the door to be opened using a closed fist – a requirement of DDA 1995 .
BS 8300-2 also provides specific guidelines to ensure these handles are accessible . The hand grip zone should be at least 95mm , and the lever section should have a minimum diameter of 19mm . These handles should be installed at a height of 800-1050mm from the floor ; 900mm is ideal .
Visual contrast
Ensuring door hardware is easily identifiable against the backdrop of the door and surrounding environment is crucial for residents with visual impairments .
BS 8300 recommends a contrast of at least 15 Light Reflectance Value ( LRV ) points between the door furniture and the door itself . This helps residents locate and
use door handles more easily , enhancing overall safety .
The task of choosing door hardware for care homes is indeed complex , but it is a critical element in creating safe , compliant , and accessible spaces for some of the most vulnerable members of society .
By adhering to the guidelines within the Equality Act 2010 , BS 8300 , and related standards , it ensures the choices made not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance the quality of life for care home residents .
They can also support responsible persons working in care homes to navigate the complexities of ensuring door hardware is safe , secure and accessible for all building users , whatever their abilities .
With the right approach , door hardware can contribute significantly to the safety , comfort , and dignity of those who call these facilities home .
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NOVEMBER 2024
35
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