Short Description
A range of activating devices is available to automatically open and close doors. Automatic door operation may offer independent access to people with disabilities when entering and leaving public buildings and within private accommodation.
Options
MEANS OF ACTIVATION
Automatic door opening and closing mechanisms can be activated by:
. Pressure mats
. Electronic beam / infra red detector
. Key card
. Remote radio control
. Touch pad or other switch
. Timer
. Locks which require insertion of card key
. Bump and go
OPERATION
The wide range of performance options available include:
. Speed of opening and closure - usually adjustable within a limited range
. Hold open time
Delayed action closure
. Backcheck to arrest opening speed at end of arc to prevent wall damage
. Manual over ride
AESTHETICS
The range of aesthetic options available is dependent on whether the door operating device is to be fitted to an existing door or installed with a new door.
. Surface mounted, semi concealed, flush and concealed mounting of the operator is available.
. Exposed models are usually available in a range of metal finishes and colours.
Factors To Consider
Means of activation
Ease of operation
Ease of installation
Speed of opening and closure
Adjustability of settings
Accessibility of controls
Visibility of controls
SAFETY
Installing alternative locking systems and automatic doors may impact upon fire egress. Electronically controlled access doors should release in fire situation, initiated by the activation of a smoke detector. Contact your local fire protection company for more advice.
Likewise, contact suppliers for specifications about overcoming power failures on electronically operated doors to make sure there is an emergency breakout or other opening mechanism.
Standards
For public buildings and any facility which must comply with AS1428.1.
The Australian standard AS1428.1 - "Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access - New building work" includes requirements for door closers to ensure that the door is easy to open manually against the force of the door closer.(Clause 11.1.1(c)) In the case of doors which are powered in their closing AND opening these requirements should automatically be fulfilled.
AS1428.1 includes requirements to ensure that the manual controls on automatic doors are accessible: Clause 11.1.2 (e)
"Manual controls to power-operated doors shall be positioned above a level surface not closer than 1000mm from the arc of a hinged door or clear of a sliding door in the open position, and the door shall remain open for a sufficient period to enable a person with impaired mobility to pass safely through the doorway."
Other relevant Australian Standards
AS4985 - Automatic Sliding Door Assemblies
AS4178 - Electromagnetic door holders.
BCA
Automated fire exits in public buildings must comply with the Building Code of Australia, Clauses D2.19 & D2.21