Occupiers of commercial buildings, their owners and/or facilities managers are being urged to give automated entrances an autumn health check ahead of darker mornings/nights and cooler, wetter months.
The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) says seasonal changes provide a timely reminder to check that powered pedestrian doors are working correctly and that servicing arrangements are up-to-date.
Falling leaves, moisture and debris can gather around entrances and thresholds, while mats, seasonal displays or changes to internal layouts can affect the area in which a door operates.
A regular programme of weekly safety checks should already form part of routine building management. However, the changing conditions brought by autumn make it particularly important to look beyond the door itself and pay closer attention to the surrounding entrance environment.
ADSA has flagged three autumn priorities:
- Keep approaches, thresholds and operating areas clear of leaves, dirt, water and obstructions.
- Review any changes to the building, its layout, usage or users that may affect the door’s risk assessment.
- Check maintenance schedules and arrange attention from a competent automatic door technician where faults or damage are identified.
Darren Hyde, Head of Technical at ADSA, said: “Autumn can present additional challenges to entrances, making this a good time for teams to take a closer look at their automated doors.
“Simple visual checks may highlight debris around the threshold, damaged components or changes in how the door is operating. Staff should also be encouraged to report unusual noises, hesitant movement or doors that do not open and close as expected.
“These observations do not replace professional inspection and servicing, but they can help identify when further attention is needed.”
Powered pedestrian doors should be maintained in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and the relevant standards. Safety devices, activation systems and the area surrounding the door should be assessed by someone with the appropriate training.
Building managers should not attempt technical adjustments, disable safety features or continue using a door where its operation may present a risk. Any concerns should be referred to an ADSA member to undertake servicing.
Changes to an entrance can be just as significant as visible faults. New furniture, signage, barriers or floor coverings may alter pedestrian routes or interfere with the safe operation of a door. And a change in occupancy or increased use by children, older people or those with reduced physical, sensory or cognitive capabilities may also require the risk assessment to be reviewed.
Darren added: ““Automatic door safety is not confined to an annual service visit or a seasonal check. It relies on building managers staying alert to changing conditions and acting when something is not right.
“Weekly safety checks, supported by planned servicing and clear maintenance records, can help prevent avoidable disruption and keep entrances safe and accessible throughout the year.”
Occupier safety check videos can be viewed on ADSA’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@adsa-theautomaticdoorsuppl8195
