Product category:
Access Control, Door Entry Systems
News Release from: Abloy UK | Subject: Legislation and effective building security
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 11 November 2005
Legislation and effective building
security
Robin Rice, Managing Director of Abloy Security, looks at the need to balance recent legislation with the increasing demand for effective building security.
New and increasingly stringent legislation is gradually changing the way in which buildings are designed, built and refurbished Perhaps as importantly, new legislation, combined with the growing need to improve security in both public and private buildings, is altering the way in which architects, planners, facilities managers and consultants are tackling the challenges of security and access control
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 1 Oct 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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The Disability Discrimination Act (Part III) is probably the most prominent piece of legislation to be introduced in recent years and highlights the dilemma faced by building and security managers, as they try to balance the need to provide easy access for visitors and staff with the equally important requirement for carefully managed access control.
Although there are many types of access control systems almost all of them are based on door operators and closers, which provide the physical method of controlling the position of doors within a building.
Door Operators.
Further reading
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Following on from the launch of the Abloy Security Awards for Excellence 2003, over 40 entries have so far been received from ABLOY Centres and trade customers throughout the UK and Ireland.
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Abloy Launches Virtually Silent Door Operators
Following extensive research and development, Abloy Security has launched its new DA300 automatic swing door operator, specially designed to provide virtually silent operation.
Automatic swing door operators offer an efficient, reliable, sophisticated and safe means of opening a hinged door automatically and can be used on main entrance doors and internal fire doors to provide controlled access.
In addition, when used in conjunction with motor or solenoid locks, automatic swing door operators can provide hands-free access control without compromising building security.
Door operators have advanced features that enable specifiers to determine accurate and precise operation, from initial opening speed to final closing speed, hold open time, opening/closing force and direction.
Operators incorporate safety mechanisms to prevent the door from closing if anything is detected within the swing area, and can hold doors open for predetermined periods, ensuring that individuals confined to wheelchairs or with walking difficulties are able to move around a building without the risk of the door closing on them.
The latest door operators can be connected to electric locks so that secure doors can be released and opened by remote control, for example from a wheelchair.
Doors may also be opened with push buttons, contact switches, card readers or radar devices.
For improved safety and security, door operators can be wired into security and fire alarm systems so that in the event of an emergency doors remain closed or open, depending on which is required.
Door closers with low opening forces are ideal for high traffic areas, especially for people on crutches or using walking sticks, and are suitable for both lightweight and heavyweight usage.
Security is a key feature as these products incorporate pressure relief valves to prevent them being forced open once secured.
Access can also be controlled by receptionists or security personnel using a remote access switch, controlling a door operator in conjunction with a motor lock, to allow the door to swing open, and the bolt to be thrown automatically when closed.
A mechanical override is typically available as standard to provide emergency access in the event of power failure.
Conclusion.
Recent legislation including the DDA is already affecting the way in which locks and locking mechanisms are being manufactured and used.
In time, systems offering advanced keyless security options, with push or touch control exit devices and automatic spoken directions, will probably become commonplace. Request a free brochure from Abloy UK ...
In the meantime, the latest door operators and closers already meet the criteria laid down by the DDA and can help specifiers and building managers create an effective means by which buildings can remain secure yet accessible to all, regardless of their disability.
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