• May 3, 2017
  • Posted by: Laura
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When installing or servicing an automatic door, it is a requirement that a risk assessment has taken place. One of the biggest risk factors are slicing and crushing, mainly with the fingers.

Many customers don’t believe it is a requirement for finger guards to be installed, however, according to the BS EN16005, it is a requirement to ensure the necessary health and safety factors have been considered and administered.

The BS EN16005 states:

Power operated pedestrian doorsets shall be designed so that hazards due to crushing, shearing, impact and drawing-in during the opening and closing cycles are avoided or so that safeguards against such hazards are provided.

Danger points shall be safeguarded up to a height of 2,5 m above the floor with the following exception:

  1. a)  the guide slot in the drive cover, or drive arm or closing action at the top of the doorset below the lintel is not regarded as a danger point and a protective device need not be provided at this point as any contact with it requires an intentional action;

  2. b)  danger points between the leaf and frame presenting a fingertrap hazard can be protected up to only 2 m.

The following may be used:

  • ⎯  guards (see 4.6.9);

  • ⎯  barriers (see 4.6.10 an 4.6.11);

  • ⎯  limitation of leaf forces (does not apply to shearing and drawing-in hazards) (see 4.6.7);

  • ⎯  electro-sensitive protective equipment (ESPE) and/or pressure sensitive protective equipment (PSPE) (see 4.6.8);

  • ⎯  safety distances (see 4.6.11); 

    It also states:

    Danger points between the leaf and frame presenting a finger trap hazard shall be avoided structurally or by an appropriate protective device or safeguards provided by means of protective measures  

    Therefore, if you have a customer who objects against the health and safety regulations as set by the BS EN16005, please reference the BS EN16005 documentation and Machine Directive which supports the BS EN16005. The guards are there to protect the public.
    However, if they still persist make a note in their log book with their details and date etc. or refuse to continue the installation/service.
    If an injury takes place, they will be held accountable for damages.

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