Access and the Disability Discrimination Act

Simon Chapman, DDA Product Specialist at DORMA UK Limited, summarises the various types of door products available to help meet compliance

On October 1st this year, Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act comes into force, the ramifications of which should be fully familiar to designers, specifiers and contractors throughout the local government sector. Namely, that it may be necessary to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to the physical features of any premises so that it becomes just as expedient for a disabled person to enter, freely move around in and safely exit, as it would for an able-bodied person. What may not be so familiar though is the range of door products available to help ensure compliance. Doors that self-open and close, without the need for physical contact, are the ideal solution to providing safe and easy access for people with physical disabilities and we look at some of the options available.

Automatic sliding doors, available in single, bi-parting or telescopic configurations, are an excellent access solution and ideal in heavy traffic areas. Door movements are highly adjustable and can be tailored precisely to the specific requirements of any application.

Designed for both internal and external door applications automatic swing door systems are ideal for both newbuild and retro-fitting to existing doors. more…

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	Automatic sliding doors, available in single, bi-parting or telescopic configurations, are an excellent access solution and ideal in heavy traffic areas. download view picture
	For narrow door openings, passageways and for other locations where space is limited and it would be difficult to fit other types of automatic doors, an automatic folding door is ideal. download view picture
	For people who would normally be restricted by conventional manual swing doors, a low energy door operator offers increased accessibility and independence to the user. download view picture