Door hardware standards play a significant role in life safety by ensuring products used in commercial and residential buildings are suitable for their intended use. These standards serve as tools for hardware manufacturers and building professionals by providing them with a mutual understanding of door hardware requirements and types of locking systems.
Optimal door performance begins with accurate, complete door schedules—which, in turn, produce detailed hardware specifications. This information then flows down through project delivery.
Selecting the best type of automatic door for a particular building can be challenging for any specifier, as it requires several considerations, ranging from desired traffic flow and expected user types to aesthetic preferences, space available, and whether the door meets state and federal codes.
The design process for any building involves a great deal of conflict resolution. A careful balance must be struck between convenience, security, life safety, and aesthetics—particularly at the structure’s openings.
In the wake of any tragedy, society struggles collectively to process the loss. For some, it is the loss of friends and loved ones, but for most, it is the feelings of safety and trust that are diminished.
