When it comes to the safety and security of their buildings, some facility managers feel that they are mutually exclusive. This is especially true when evaluating door hardware options. The measures taken to improve the safety of the facility are thought to be detrimental to the safety of the building's occupants, and it is believed that the measures taken to improve safety have a negative effect on the overall safety of the building.For them, it's a no-win situation. There are many factors to consider when selecting hardware.
Size, shape, finish, and warranty are all important considerations. One thing that is often overlooked is the material. Underneath the exterior of each piece of hardware is the base material. Even if it is not usually visible, it is essential to consider when choosing hardware.
Environmental factors should also be taken into account when selecting hardware. Doors are constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, so in coastal areas, doors must have finishes and hardware that are highly resistant to corrosion. Without the right protective finishes, doors installed in this type of environment can fail in as little as five years. Door hardware that is not corrosion-resistant can stick and jam, making it difficult for doors to function and ultimately damaging the door, hardware, or both.
Accessibility
, safety, and personal protection should be the top priority when specifying doors and their support accessories.This means complying with codes and standards set by industry sources such as Underwriters Laboratories, Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA), International Building Code (IBC), and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) (80 and 10). If these construction specifications are not met, serious legal consequences may result. The main mistake made by users or hardware selectors at the time of selection is that they only check the aesthetic aspect of the hardware rather than its functions.When selecting decorative hardware for your facility, there are several important safety considerations you should take into account. First and foremost, you should ensure that your chosen hardware meets all applicable codes and standards set by industry sources such as Underwriters Laboratories, Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA), International Building Code (IBC), and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) (80 and 10).
Additionally, you should pay close attention to the material used in your chosen hardware; environmental factors such as extreme temperatures can cause corrosion if not properly protected against. Finally, don't forget about accessibility, safety, and personal protection; these should always be your top priorities when selecting decorative hardware for your facility.
