How long should automatic doors stay open?

A frequently asked question by anyone installing automatic doors into their building is how long should automatic doors stay open. The answer to this question will depend on a range of factors which we’ll explore in this article. Automatic doors are a popular choice in a wide range of settings. They provide added convenience and accessibility, making buildings more attractive as well as enhancing safety.

How long should automatic doors stay open, the Regulatory Standards

If you’re installing doors into a building that will be used by members of the public, there are regulatory requirements that you will need to bear in mind. The 2010 Equality Act mandates that doors should remain open long enough for a person with a disability to enter or exit the building safely. BSI guidelines also stipulate that automatic doors should remain open long enough to allow people to evacuate the building safely in the event of a fire.

When considering how long should automatic doors stay open it’s important to consider these safety aspects. Should a fire occur in the building and the doors have been shown not to remain open long enough for people to evacuate, then the building owners could be held responsible.

While regulatory standards provide some guidance as to how long should automatic doors stay open, there is a range of other factors that need to be considered.

The speed of foot traffic

One of the most important factors that will influence how long should automatic doors stay open in your building is the speed and volume of foot traffic. If a building experiences a high volume of foot traffic such as an airport or train station, doors may need to stay open for a longer period of time to accommodate the flow of people. Lower foot traffic will require the door to remain open for less time.

Width of the doorway

The width of the doorway will be another factor to consider when considering how long should automatic doors stay open. Wider doorways will take longer for the automatic door to clear and will require a longer opening period to ensure that people have enough time to pass through safely.

The size and weight of the door

The size and the weight of the door will be another important factor. The heavier the door, the longer it is likely to take to open. They will then need to remain open for long enough for people to pass through safely.

The location of the doors

How long should automatic doors stay open can vary depending on the use case in the UK. In hospitals, for example, doors may need to stay open for a longer period of time to allow medical equipment and stretchers to pass through. In shopping centres, doors may need to remain open for a shorter period of time to prevent energy waste and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

For advice about the choice, automatic door services, installation or even automatic door maintenance,  contact the experienced team at Safetell.