ALL ABOUT THE DOOR
Enhancing Building Security :
The Critical Role of Door Closers
Louise Frost , Search Manager at Door Controls Direct , guides us through the evolution of door closers into their role in physical security systems .
» SO MUCH IN OUR MODERN LIVES IS taken for granted . New technologies are swiftly integrated into existing systems and processes and soon it feels like it ’ s always been there . This naturally increases the obsolescence of more traditional hardware , practices , plus less tangible things such as language and beliefs .
Door closers as we know them have been around for a couple of hundred years , closing doors behind us once we ’ ve passed through . And unlike floppy discs , gramophones , and the much-missed Cadbury ’ s Nuts About Caramel bar , closers remain a consistent , relevant part of the ironmongery requirements of our built environments .
Above and beyond fire safety , environmental control , and privacy , door closers have a larger part to play . Join me for a brief walk through the evolving role of closing devices in building security and how they go beyond their traditional role .
Integration with Access Control
You ’ ll already know that electromagnetic closers work in sync with fire safety systems to automatically close doors when the fire alarm is triggered . But what about access control doors ? Do they still need a door closer if they ’ re usually locked shut ?
The short answer is yes . The longer answer is yes , modern controlled door closing devices can and should be integrated with access control systems to enhance security measures .
Door automation , turnstiles , and barriers all control the movement of people . However , smaller spaces continue to manage pedestrian access via physical credentials ( a card , key , or fob ) or via an access code . Access control doors can only control access if they securely close after each opening .
Enter a traditional overhead door closer , transom or concealed closer , or a floor spring on larger , heavier doors . Access control products control entry during specific times or based on security protocols but the doors themselves rely on a door closer . Simple yet effective .
Advanced Features of Door Closers
I ’ ve perhaps over simplified closers to this point . Yes , they close a door , but there ’ s so much more to them than that :
• Delayed Action : Allows doors to remain open for a predetermined time for large items or slower foot traffic to pass through before securely closing the door .
• Backcheck : Prevents damage to the door or wall by dampening excessive opening forces caused by misuse or strong winds .
• Electromagnetic Hold Open : A compliant way to hold fire doors open during normal operation but ensures closing in response to the fire alarm .
• Adjustable Speed and Power Size : Tailor units to suit specific doors ,
locations , and use cases with various on-door adjustments .
• Universal Fitting : Make installation swift and straightforward by choosing a model that can be installed on the pull or push side , body on door or body on frame .
Select the right unit to enhance the operational security and functionality of your facility . With all of those choices , how do you remain compliant ? Compliant to what ? Read on to find out .
Compliance and Regulatory Considerations
Whether you ’ ve been in the construction industry for 5 months or 5 years , you ’ ll be aware of the importance of compliance with local and national safety standards and building regulations .
There are legal implications of noncompliance , never mind the risk to life that incorrectly specified , installed , or maintained safety and security products poses . Consequences can be severe . Non-compliance can result in penalties , including fines and legal action , which
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JUNE 2024
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