Why Regular Servicing of Doors, Gates & Barriers Matters

Facilities managers, premises managers, and building owners are tasked with ensuring the safety, security, and efficiency of their premises. One critical aspect of this responsibility is the regular servicing of doors, gates and barriers. These assets are not just functional elements, they are integral to the smooth operation of any facility, impacting everything from security to energy efficiency.

Why is the regular servicing of doors, gates and barriers essential for your premises?

Safety and Security

Doors, gates and barriers are the first line of defence against unauthorised access. Regular servicing ensures that these assets function correctly, reducing the risk of security breaches. For instance, automatic doors or gates that fail to close properly can leave a facility vulnerable to intruders. Similarly, malfunctioning barriers can compromise the security of parking areas and restricted zones.

Energy Efficiency

For facilities with automatic doors or sectional overhead doors, for example, regular maintenance can improve energy efficiency. Properly serviced doors ensure a tight seal when closed, reducing heat loss in winter and keeping cool are in during summer.

Compliance with Regulations

In the UK, facilities must comply with various regulations and standards, such as those set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the British Standards Institutions (BSI). Regular servicing helps ensure compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential legal issues and fines. For example, the BS EN 16005 standard governs the safety of power-operated doors, requiring regular inspections and maintenance.

Operational Efficiency

Well-maintained doors and barriers operate more efficiently, reducing wear and tear and extending their lifespan. This is particularly important for high-traffic areas where doors and gates are used frequently. Regular servicing can identify and address minor issues before they become major problems, preventing costly repairs and downtime.

User Convenience

Malfunctioning doors and barriers can be a significant inconvenience for employees, visitors and delivery personnel. For emergency services, the delay could be critical to a person’s health or safety. Regular servicing ensures that these assets operate smoothly, enhancing the overall user experience and maintaining the professional image of the facility.

How often should I have my doors, gates or barriers serviced?

In the UK, doors, gates and barriers should be serviced regularly to ensure safety, functionality, and longevity. For high-traffic areas, servicing every 3-6 months is recommended. Adhering to manufacturer guidelines and UK safety standards is crucial. Seasonal changes, wear and tear, and usage frequency may necessitate more frequent usage. At SDG Access, we recommend that customers service their doors within six months of installation to ensure the warranty remains valid.

Compliance and Regulatory Considerations

In the UK, several associations and regulatory bodies oversee the safety and functionality of doors, gates and barriers. Facilities managers and building owners must be aware of these regulations to ensure compliance.

Door and Hardware Federation

The Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) is a UK-based association that represents the interest of manufacturers, suppliers and installers of doors, gates and barriers. The DHF provides guidelines and best practices for the maintenance and servicing of these components, helping facilities managers ensure compliance and safety.

Automatic Door Suppliers Association

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) is a leading authority in the automatic door industry, providing standards and guidelines for the supply, installation, and maintenance of automatic doors. Membership in the ADSA signifies a commitment to quality and safety, and facilities managers should look for ADSA certified suppliers and installers to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Automatic Door Installation Association

The Automatic Door Installation Association (ADIA) focuses on the installation and maintenance of automatic doors, ensuring that these systems are installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. ADIA certified installers are trained to comply with all relevant regulations and standards, providing peace of mind for facilities manages and building owners.

Health and Safety Executive

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets guidelines for workplace safety, including the maintenance of doors and gates. Regular servicing helps to ensure that these components meet HSE standards, reducing the risk of accident and injuries.

British Standards Institution

The British Standards Institution (BSI) provides standards for various types of door and barriers. For example, BS EN 16005 covers the safety of powered.

What types of industrial and commercial doors require regular servicing?

Roller Shutters

Commonly used in commercial and industrial settings, roller shutters provide security and insulation. Regular servicing ensures smooth operation, prevents jamming, and extends the lifespan of the shutter mechanism.

Fast Action Doors

These doors are designed for high-traffic areas, such as warehouse and loading bays. Regular maintenance of fast action doors is crucial to ensure they open and close quickly and efficiently, minimising energy loss and maintaining security.

Folding Doors

Often used in larger industrial and commercial openings, folding doors require regular servicing to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear on the folding mechanism.

Sectional Overhead Doors

Sectional overhead doors are commonly found in industrial facilities. Regular servicing ensures they operate smoothly and prevent issues such as misalignment or spring failure.

Automatic Doors

Automatic doors are a common feature in retail, healthcare and office buildings. Regular servicing is essential to ensure they open and close correctly, comply with safety standards, and provide a seamless user experience.

Steel Security Doors

Steel security doors are designed to provide maximum protection against forced entry. Regular maintenance ensures they remain robust and functional, maintaining the security of the facility.

Spiral Doors

Spiral doors are often used in high-traffic industrial settings. Regular servicing ensures they operate smoothly and efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns and extending their lifespan.

Gates and Barriers

Gates and barriers are critical for controlling access to compounds, parking areas, and restricted zones. Regular servicing ensures they operate correctly, maintain security and comply with safety regulations.   Regular servicing of doors, gates and barriers is not just a maintenance task; it’s a critical component of facility management that impact safety, security, compliance and operational efficiency. Investing in regular servicing not only prevents costly repairs and downtime but also enhances the over user experience and professional image of the facility.