Andy Howland sales & marketing director at GEZE UK on door closer quality
Fire doors are essential components in building safety, acting as barriers that help contain smoke and flames during a fire. While the fire door itself must meet strict regulations, the quality of the door closer is equally crucial. Specifying high-quality door closers is vital for ensuring that fire doors function reliably, maintain safety standards, and enhance the users experience.
Reliable performance in emergencies
The primary function of a fire door is to contain fires and protect escape routes. High-quality door closers are designed to ensure that fire doors close securely and completely. This capability is essential in preventing smoke and flames from spreading, thus providing occupants with crucial time to evacuate safely.
Compliance with regulations
Fire safety regulations and building codes dictate specific requirements for fire doors and their hardware. High-quality door closers are typically tested to ensure they adhere to either EN 1154 or EN 1155. Specifying products that meet these standards ensures compliance and reduces liability for building owners.
Longevity under high traffic
Fire doors are often located in high-traffic areas, such as hallways and entry points. High-quality door closers are built from tested, durable materials in order to withstand frequent use without compromising their performance. Cheaper, low-quality models may wear out quickly, leading to malfunctioning doors.
Smooth operation
High-quality door closers provide adjustable closing forces and speeds,. This feature is particularly important in environments where users may have varying levels of strength, such as in schools or healthcare facilities. A smoother operation minimises the risk of injury and enhances the overall user experience.
Accommodating accessibility
Fire doors must be accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. Quality door closers can be adjusted to ensure that the door opens with low force, closes gently and does not pose challenges for users with mobility issues.
Reduced maintenance
Investing in high-quality door closers often results in lower maintenance costs.. Reliable models require less frequent servicing, which can save building owners both time and money. In contrast, low-quality closers may need regular adjustments, repairs or replacements, leading to increased operational and product lifetime costs.
