MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Door Maintenance Survey
Inspecting doors during periods of maintenance falls into two stages , a visual inspection and a functional test .
Visual Inspections
Check for visible signs of wear and tear . This could look like loose fixings which mean hardware isn ’ t securely fixed which would impact the function of the ironmongery and the door .
Visual inspections also cover :
• The condition of ironmongery
• The presence of correct hardware
• The door and frame
• Fire door specifics like gaps between door and frame
Functional Tests
Time to get hands on . Doors should close securely into frames after every operation . Locks shouldn ’ t stick . Kickplates , handles , signage shouldn ’ t be hanging off or causing an obstruction .
The best door hardware is the hardware that works , you need the right product for the right job . Product lifecycles matter so considering intended use , the traffic , and positioning and selecting a suitable product can reduce your costs of maintenance and replacement .
The Right People and Tools
• Maintenance Provider : In-house or outsourced , it ’ s important to have reliable service providers that are focused on quality and compliance .
• Tools and Products : Once you have the right people , it ’ s time for the right
tools and products . These include physical items that aid in maintaining door integrity , such as specific fire rated consumables , CE / UKCA marked door closers and hinges , through to FM software to allow the quick and easy tracking of planned works .
Planning for the Long-Term Some quick tips for how to assure you ’ re set up for a smooth of a journey as possible with regular maintenance routines :
• Maintenance Schedules : Establish an effective maintenance calendar . Align inspections and works with school terms and holidays . Provide visibility for all stakeholders .
• Budget Planning : Agree strategies for allocating budget to critical maintenance requirements . Balance this with the other requirements for your facility across all departments .
• Training Staff : Understand and communicate the importance of training . Whether this is having an awareness of legislation and regulation or understanding doors and their hardware .
Ensuring Security and Compliance
Regular inspections and functional checks are crucial for keeping doors in optimal condition . Addressing common issues like knowledge gaps and time constraints ensures effective maintenance . By adopting a proactive approach , involving skilled personnel and appropriate tools , and planning for the long-term with schedules and training , premises can significantly enhance safety and security .
Remember , “ The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago . The second best time is now ”. The same goes for door maintenance . If you don ’ t already have a schedule in place , start one today to ensure continued safety and compliance .
www . doorcontrolsdirect . co . uk
AUGUST 2024
45
Issue Takeover locksmithjournal . co . uk