Free-swing door closer
A door closer is a hydraulic device that is used to automatically close a door. For more information, see Door closer for more information.
Free-swing door closers are a type of door closer which can be used to increase fire safety of a building. They can be specified and installed as a means of easing access and in buildings where heavy traffic will be experienced through the doors, such as an office, school, hotel or commercial space.
The closers are installed at the top of a fire door, allowing the door to swing freely with little force required to open it, or to be held open in any position. The door closers will close the fire door automatically when a fire alarm sounds, providing a barrier to help reduce the fire’s ability to spread through the building.
The closers can be hard-wired to the alarm system, or can be battery-operated and wireless. In the latter case, the release trigger may react to the particular sound of the alarm, usually requiring that it exceeds a certain decibel level over a period of several seconds before releasing the door. This helps prevent false activations from occurring.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Automatic fire detection and alarm systems, an introductory guide to components and systems BR 510.
- Automatic release mechanism.
- Door closer.
- Door restrictors.
- Fire detection and alarm systems.
- Fire door.
- Fire Door Inspection Scheme.
- Fire safety design.
- Fire stopping.
- Hold-open device.
- How fire doors can save lives
- Installing fire doors and doorsets (GG 86).
- The causes of false fire alarms in buildings.
Featured articles and news
CIOB launches global mental health survey
To address the silent mental health crisis in construction.
New categories in sustainability, health and safety, and emerging talent.
Key takeaways from the BSRIA Briefing 2024
Not just waiting for Net Zero, but driving it.
The ISO answer to what is a digital twin
Talking about digital twins in a more consistent manner.
Top tips and risks to look out for.
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware
Published by GAI and DHF.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, retrofit measures and the roles involved.
New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester
The pioneering Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance.
Drone data at the edge: three steps to better AI insights
Offering greater accuracy and quicker access to insights.
From fit-out to higher-risk buildings.
Heritage conservation in Calgary
The triple bottom line.
College of West Anglia apprentice wins SkillELECTRIC gold.
Scottish government launch delivery plan
To strengthen planning and tackle the housing emergency.
How people react in ways which tend to restore their comfort.
Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle.
ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales
Best solutions for the industry and electrical skills in Wales.
New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response
Working with CITB and NHBC to launch fast track training.