March 22, 2025
When talking about building safety, the first things that come to mind are fire alarms, emergency exits and security systems. Meanwhile, the one tool that plays a major role in keeping public spaces safe is often overlooked: door gauges. These simple devices measure the force required to open or close a door, ensuring that it meets the standards for a safe building.
The primary use of a door pressure gauge is to check if a door meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements. According to the ADA, doors in public buildings must not require more than 5 pounds of force to open, as this ensures that people with disabilities can enter and exit easily.
If a door is too heavy, it can be almost impossible for people using wheelchairs, walkers or crutches to access such doors. A door gauge allows you to measure and adjust the door pressure or a building to make sure everyone can navigate the space safely.
Fire safety regulations require that fire doors close and latch properly to contain smoke during an emergency. However, if the door pressure is too high, people may struggle to push it open when trying to escape. If it’s too low, the door might not close completely, thereby allowing fire to spread easily.
Testing your doors regularly with a door pressure gauge ensures that fire doors work properly, allowing occupants enough time to evacuate the building while the fire is being contained. This simple step can save lives in the event of an emergency.
Heavy doors can cause accidents and injuries, especially for young children or people carrying heavy loads. A door that closes with force can slam shut unexpectedly, causing injury to the hand or finger. By checking the door pressure with a gauge regularly, the doors can be fine-tuned to prevent unexpected movements and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Public buildings experience a high volume of foot traffic daily. Over time, the hinges and other door components can wear down, causing pressure to become inconsistent. These doors can stop functioning correctly if they are not monitored regularly. And this can lead to safety issues.
A door gauge allows for proper maintenance checks, ensuring the doors remain in the best working condition. This helps to improve safety and avoid costly repairs later on.
Door gauges might seem like a small tool, but their roles are important in ensuring safety in public buildings. They make public buildings more accessible and they help prevent injuries; door gauges are designed to create a safer environment for everyone.
Measuring door pressure is acting in compliance with building regulations, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It’s an important step in ensuring accessibility, safety
When talking about building safety, the first things that come to mind are fire alarms, emergency exits and security systems. Meanwhile, the one tool that
