The Importance of Door Closers

Door closers are used to keep a door in its closed position on top of the threshold of a door opening. When a fire rated door system is required, a door closer is generally specified. While there are many types of door closers available, not all door closers are rated for fire. The fire rating of any doorway is calculated by the lowest rated component of the doorway system. These related elements include the door, door frame, hinges, smoke seal, door closer, and threshold (among other components). Locksets or panic devices may change the rating of a specific doorway.

It is important to assess the overall condition of each door in a facility. Scheduled quarterly inspections of all doors are recommended. A typical inspection will verify that the opening and its components are functioning correctly. When an opening is fire rated, it is essential that the door closes completely and unaided by any contact, other than using the forces created by the door hardware. If a doorway is connected to the central life safety or fire systems of a building the closing action is often activated either mechanically or electronically when an alarm is initiated.

Door closer expert, Mike Panish, is the president of Construction Systems. Construction Systems has been involved in providing door related assessments and door services since 1985. Part of the many door related services include periodic maintenance and inspections for hospitals, hotels, restaurants, themed attractions, and schools. Mike Panish is the nation's leading door closer expert, having participated as expert witness in numerous door closer and hardware related injury claims. He works for both plaintiff and defense and is able to thoroughly evaluate your case and provide you with the facts to help you understand and explain the cause of any accident related to doors, door hardware, and door injuries.