Accessibility Guidance | Door Hardware Online

ACCESSIBILITY GUIDANCE - THE EQUALITY ACT 2010

The concept of universal access is familiar but still challenges the construction industry. It is essential to meet specific standards to comply with the Equality Act, Approved Document M of The Building Regulations, and BS 8300. We provide guidance and product solutions that cover the following areas:

  • Low energy door controls
  • Electromagnetic door controls
  • Mechanical door controls to meet the conflicting requirements of BS 8300 and fire safety requirements of EN 1154
  • Colour contrast in ironmongery for visual impairment
  • Comprehensive fittings for washrooms, showers and WCs
Briton 2003V.SES | Door Closer (2003V)
Briton 389N.SE | Push Pad - Mortice Night Latch (389)
Briton 121CE.SES | Door Closer (121)
Briton 378.SE | Push Bar - Rim Latch (378)

 

The Equality Act - disability legislation aimed at providing universal accessibility of buildings, requires service providers to make 'reasonable adjustments to the physical features of their premises to overcome barriers to access'. Approved Doc M of the Building Regulations and BS 8300 guide in establishing recommended maximum opening forces for door controls to assist less able users. High-efficiency Briton cam action door closers meet the required levels of opening and closing forces to address these requirements and are marked accordingly with the universal 'Wheelchair Symbol'. 

Disabled individuals must be able to access single or double swing doors independently. The force required to open the door should not exceed 30N between 0º and 30º from the closed position and 22.5N from 30º to 60º. For fire doors, the closing force becomes the most critical factor. According to EN 1154: 1996 + A1: 2002/AC:2006, the closing moment for a power size 3 door closer should be at least 18Nm at a point between 0º and 4º. Additionally, controlled door closing devices with a power size of less than 3 are unsuitable for fire door assemblies as they may not provide the necessary torque.

Accurate installation, hinge friction, door seals and variable air pressure can all have a bearing on the opening resistance of the final door set. For doors which must meet the stringent closing force requirements of EN 1154: 1996 + A1: 2002/AC:2006 for fire door applications, it may be more appropriate to use electromagnetic hold open/swing-free closers or a powered opening solution. Hardware must be UKCA/CE marked per the requirements of EN 1154: 1996 + A1: 2002/AC:2006 & EN 1155: 1997 + A1: 2002 for electromagnetic hold-open closers. Additional standards come into play for automated door systems.

Guide to Approved Document M of the Building Regulations 2010 - England

Briton Fire Door Closers | Briton Exit Devices | Briton Locks

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