Swinging door openers can be fitted to external or internal doors in a workplace, domestic or commercial setting. The opening of doors can be difficult for people with disability, particularly those who use a wheelchair or have physical disability affecting their hands or upper limbs. Swinging doors can be installed to promote access for people within the workplace. Many doors also require excessive force to open or close, which can be compounded by wind pressure.
An automated swinging door mechanism can be mounted to the top of the door frame, with the arm mechanism attached to the door. The swing mechanism can be retrofitted to most existing doors; however a power point is required to run the motor.
Sensors can be mounted above the doorframe, to activate door opening upon approach. Alternatively wall mounted touch sensors or hand held remotes can be used to open doors upon activation.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
The Disability Discrimination Act makes it unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of disability, including limiting access to the workplace. It is essential for workplaces to provide access to all employees, including the entry and exit through external and internal doors.
Doors are often difficult to open and close for persons with physical disabilities, and automatic or swinging doors may need to be considered if the door is heavy or the worker is unable to manipulate lever handles.
If automatic swinging doors are required for access specifically due to a person’s disability and all alternate sources of funding have been exhausted, consideration can be given to applying for funding assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund. For further information on eligibility for funding assistance or door related products, please see the links below:
References
Australian Human Rights Commission 2011, Access to Premises Australian Human Rights Commission, Sydney, viewed 7 March 2011, http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/access_to_premises.html.
Australian Human Rights Commission 2011, Access to buildings and services: Guidelines and information, Australia Human Rights Commission, Sydney, viewed 7 March 2011, http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/guidelines.htm.
Dorma Australia 2003-2010, Low energy operators, Dorma Australia, Sydney, viewed 7 March 2011, http://www.dorma.com.au/prod/door_control/06_low_energy_operators/low_energy_swing_door_operator_ed_800/(code)/product_overview/(parent)/23019.
Standards Australia 2001, AS 1428.1, Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access—New building work, Standards Australia, Sydney.