Understanding the right safety choice for sliding doors
When it comes to automatic sliding doors, safety is always the top priority. Two common ways to reduce risks are by using pocket doors or side screen safety sensors. Both can help protect users from impact and entrapment hazards — but which is best depends on the door design, layout, and users.
At the Automatic Door Installation Association (ADIA), we encourage engineers to base every decision on a proper dynamic risk assessment, ensuring compliance with BS EN16005 and BS 7036-0.
What are pocket doors?
Pocket doors are sliding doors that move into a cavity or “pocket” within the wall. This design removes the exposed closing edge, helping to eliminate impact or crushing points.
They can be particularly effective in environments such as hospitals, care homes, or offices where users may stand close to the door or where there’s regular pedestrian movement.
However, pocket doors are not suitable for every installation. For example, telescopic sliding doors, or entrances where there isn’t space for a wall cavity, require other protective measures.
What are side screen safety sensors?
Side screen safety sensors are fitted near the door leaf to detect anyone approaching or standing close to the moving edge. The sensor stops the door from closing if it detects movement, helping to prevent contact or injury.
These sensors are ideal for doors with a fixed track, areas with high footfall, or locations where pocket doors cannot be fitted. When installed and adjusted correctly, they fully meet the requirements of BS EN16005.
Which option should you choose?
Both pocket doors and side screen safety sensors can be safe and compliant when used correctly. The choice depends on:
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The type of door system
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The layout and space available
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The environment and type of users
A dynamic risk assessment carried out by a DoorSafe-registered engineer will identify which option best reduces risk on each individual site.
The ADIA’s approach
Our goal at the ADIA is to promote clear, practical safety guidance for engineers and their clients. By combining City & Guilds-accredited training with up-to-date knowledge of standards, ADIA members can ensure every automatic door they install or service is both safe and compliant.
Pocket doors and side screen safety sensors are both valuable tools in keeping users protected — what matters most is choosing the right one for the situation.