It’s common for managers and owners of office buildings and retail shops to overlook the importance of door closers unless there’s a compliance or safety issue. However, understanding NCC door closer compliance requirements is essential, as properly installed and adjusted door closers play a critical role in fire safety, controlled accessibility, security, and energy efficiency across commercial premises such as shops, offices, medical facilities, and apartment complexes.
What Are Door Closers & Where Are They Used?
Door closers are mechanisms often attached to the tops of doors, both internal and external ones, which make doors close automatically after they’ve been opened by a person. Door closers are set to control the speed at which the door closes, and once closed, the door will latch automatically as well. They’re most commonly used on commercial premises, but many residential screen doors also have automatic door closers on them.
Compliance Requirements in Victoria
According to the National Construction Code (NCC), all commercial premises must have a fire door that complies with Australian Standards, and this includes all door hardware, such as hinges, locks, and, of course, door closers. To comply with these regulations, fire doors must be fitted with a door closing mechanism that closes the door firmly after it’s been opened and latches it securely.
Any commercial locksmith in Melbourne or right around Victoria would be familiar with these regulations and advise on the best type of door closers to use for a compliant fire door.
Safety Benefits for Staff & Customers
Having efficient door closers on commercial premises such as shops and offices provides numerous safety benefits for staff and customers, including:
- Allows easy closing of doors without manual intervention
- Doors with self-closing mechanisms are often easy to open
- Slow closing doors prevent injuries such as fingers getting stuck
- Closers can be programmed to close slowly to aid people with mobility issues
- Doors are never slammed shut, reducing the risk of excessive noise and door damage
Security & Energy Efficiency
Self-closing doors provide businesses with a much higher level of security, especially when door closers are added to doors that have controlled access codes. Not only is this vital in office buildings, but also in apartment complexes. A door closer ensures that the main entrance doors always close and latch after each opening to effectively prevent unauthorised access.
Doors that close automatically also help with energy efficiency, especially in relation to heating or cooling the building. When doors are closed quickly, it’s easier to maintain an ambient temperature within the building.
Choose The Right Door Closer For Your Business
There are a variety of different door closers, including surface-mounted, concealed, and heavy-duty. When it comes to choosing the right one, you’ll need to consider the weight and size of the door, whether it’s internal or external, and if the closer is for a fire door. Ultimately, your commercial locksmith will be able to advise you.
Contact Us Today
If you need to discuss having door closers fitted to your business premises, feel free to contact us here at Amalgamated Locksmiths Melbourne on (03) 9419 6922. Our locksmith can also discuss any other security measures you might need to keep your business safe and secure.