Reasons to Maintain Commercial Door Hardware
Reasons why keeping commercial door hardware in good mechanical condition is so important:
The first reason would be security: A door; it’s hardware, and frame for which the door swings from is an integral part of the building and is referred to as a door assembly. It provides security, protection from hazardous conditions i.e. fire & smoke and safe exits for employees and guests.
The second is life safety: Certain door assemblies are governed by life safety and fire protection regulations. When it’s not functioning as intended security is breached and life safety is jeopardized.
The third is liability: A person responsible for correcting a door opening that is not functioning properly must have knowledge of door hardware items and understanding of the openings functionality as he or she could be held liable for violating code requirements or voiding warranties.
Proper functioning door hardware is important to the entire door assembly as each piece of door hardware adds a unique function and purpose to it.
Together the door. and its hardware must be coordinated and applied properly for the door to function as intended and provide the type of security, convenience or protection to the building as required by the building owner.
Proper functioning door hardware is also important as it affects Regulatory requirements: If just one of the components within a door assembly is defective or not operating properly the entire assembly is in violation.
For a more in-depth overview of each type of door hardware with exploded views, please consider my book “Installing Door Hardware Simplified”, along with my other book “Door Hardware Simplified”, both books and on-line training opportunities can be obtained at www.doorhardwaresimplified.com.
Copyrighted © Lee A. Garver 2019-2020
