Architects Datafile (ADF) – June 2019

Concealed door closers, which are hidden

within the doorjamb, are a particularly

popular choice, retaining the aesthetics of

an interior whilst adhering to fire and

accessibility regulations. This type of door

closer also brings practical advantages

including improved safety, through reducing

the opportunity for the door closer to be

vandalised or tampered with.

Safety and security

In commercial buildings such as offices,

door closers are a key part of building

security. While keypads or other devices

can be added to lock doors, a closer will

make sure that only people entering the

building have access. Once the door closes

automatically, unwanted intruders cannot

enter the building.

As specified by Approved Document B of

the Building Regulations, a door closer

must be fitted to any fire door to prevent

the spread of flames and smoke in the event

of a fire. The below checklist lists all of the

essential components required to make a

door closer on a fire door fully operational:

• The closer must be CE marked, and as a
  minimum, it is recommended a power
  size of 3 is specified
  
  
  • The door closer must fully close and
    engage the latch when the door is open to
    5° or 75 mm
  
  
  • The closer must be free from damage and
    not leaking
  
  
  • The closing time of the door must be no
    longer than 25 seconds
  
  
  • The door closer must be tested and CE
    marked in the position it is fitted
  
  
  • If a concealed overhead door closer is
    used, it must also be fitted with the
    correct intumescent material.
  
  
  
  

Electromagnetic door closers are a

particularly good choice when it comes to

fire safety, providing a modern alternative.

Some can be wired directly into a fire

detection system, allowing doors to be held

open for everyday use, but which will then

close upon activation of a fire alarm.

Door closers are a key consideration,

especially when working on public

building projects. Understanding the

different types will enable you to choose

the best solution and achieve the highest

levels of safety and security.

David Saxby is senior category manager at

IronmongeryDirect

72INTERIORS

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