DOORS, WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES FOCUS 47 Powered by good design
Darren Hyde for the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA), outlines how to balance safety, security and accessibility requirements when identifying powered pedestrian door (PPD) solutions for commercial buildings
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here are a variety of challenges that architects and specifiers need to consider when identifying powered pedestrian door (PPD) solutions for commercial buildings.
Specifying the right solution To begin with, the right solution needs to conform with various standards, laws and Building Regulations to ensure that it is fit for purpose – encompassing safety, security and accessibility, along with complementary overarching design.
A bigger picture view is essential to maintain this equilibrium – a view that considers the location and position of the building, its intended use and footfall, how the volume of traffic may need to be channelled around the building, and identification of key entrances and exits – externally and internally.
This includes accessibility requirements, safety and security, alongside an ever- increasing awareness of fire resistance and escape routes. Knowledge of all of these standards, acts and/or regulations will also help build a clearer picture of what is required for your specification. This may seem like a lot to consider, but taking a common-sense approach can help you arrive at a decision – ruling out the impractical and including the essential. Asking who, what, where, when, how and why is a good place to start, especially when balancing client wishes with practicalities.
The location of the built environment will have a significant effect on the outcome. Is there likely to be an effect from wind loading onto elevations and the door? Is the building in a coastal location, or among other tall buildings where wind is channelled?
A door is similar to a sail: wind loading may detrimentally affect its operation if the ‘sail’ is too large, or the wrong type. It could cause operation and/or safety issues, resulting in damage. The effectiveness of
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door operators, sensors and mechanical elements can be compromised by force or environmental conditions such as salt in the air.
Identifying the user
Building use and considering who it is for, is also a cornerstone when it is likely that vulnerable people are occupants or users. Special measures may be required to enable accessibility and safety while maintaining security. This is particularly pertinent in buildings used for specialist or supported housing and education. Quite rightly, the role of an architect is to stretch the boundaries of aesthetics, form and function, but this should never be at the expense of user safety.
The role of an architect is to stretch the boundaries of aesthetics, form and function, but this should never be at the expense of user safety
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