Is it permissible to prop open a fire door?

Only using approved retainers like Dorgard is allowed. Using makeshift objects, such as chairs or fire extinguishers, is not only dangerous but also illegal, as it compromises the fire door's ability to halt fire and smoke spread. Not only is this a criminal offence, it risks lives and invalidates insurance. Dorgard is an effective and affordable solution to this for many premises.

Does Dorgard detect smoke or fires?

No. Dorgard works by reacting to the fire alarm that goes off when a fire is detected, not by detecting the fire itself. The unit will lift the plunger from the floor upon the sound of the alarm, and produce a warning tone when the door is closing.

How does Dorgard ensure safety if the fire alarm system malfunctions?

The building's risk assessment should include guidelines stating that if the fire alarm system experiences a malfunction, all devices holding doors open, including Dorgard, must be manually disabled. However, such incidents should be infrequent since most of these systems come with emergency backup power, ensuring they remain operational even during power outages.

Is Dorgard suitable for loud environments?

In environments with constant noise levels of 65 dB or more, Dorgard may mistakenly close due to the ambient noise, making it unsuitable. Dorgard requires a consistent 10-second sound to initiate the closing mechanism, so it is ok for environments where there may less constant loud noise.

What is the best way of testing Dorgard?

You must regularly test your fire alarm and protocols. Dorgard runs a self-test for faults every 7 days. The plunger is released, closing the door and the unit will emit a continuous warning alarm if a fault is detected.

Testing your building’s fire alarm system regularly is legally required and can be used to manually check Dorgards on the premises. Before conducting a fire alarm test, make sure all doors with Dorgard have the plunger down, holding the door open. Once the alarm has sounded, check all doors to ensure they have closed correctly after Dorgard has released. Report any doors that fail to close..

Where is the appropriate location to install Dorgard within premises?

Dorgard is designed to keep fire doors open, facilitating the flow and movement of individuals within a facility. While it's primarily intended for self-closing fire doors, it can technically be used on any door type. However, it's essential that the structure has a fire alarm system, and a risk assessment should be conducted to determine if Dorgard is suitable for the specific location. Certain high-risk zones, such as around single staircases, or kitchens, might not be appropriate for its use.

Should staff be informed about installed Dorgards?

Absolutely. It's essential to educate employees about Dorgard, its functionalities, and its inclusion in fire safety protocols.

Can Dorgard be used in buildings at night where occupants may be asleep?

Dorgard can keep a fire door open during the day to ensure smooth movement of people throughout the building. In facilities where people reside or sleep, Dorgard can be programmed to close the door automatically to ensure fire door protection during nighttime hours.

Does the Dorgard have a fixed decibel sensitivity?

Dorgard responds to sounds above 65 dB. Continuous sounds surpassing 65 dB for a minimum of 14 seconds trigger Dorgard to close the door. This sensitivity is deliberate to be in line with BS5839's minimum fire alarm sound level recommendation.

What safety mechanisms are integrated into the Dorgard device?

Dorgard is equipped with multiple safety precautions. If the battery's charge is low, the device will alert users with a sound and automatically disengage the plunger. The door cannot be kept open using the plunger until the batteries are replaced. Furthermore, if the batteries are taken out, the plunger becomes non-functional. Building risk assessments should include guidelines to manually turn off all door hold-open devices if there's a fire alarm system malfunction. Nonetheless, such situations are uncommon since most systems are designed with backup power to function even during power outages.

Can Dorgard be programmed to release doors at night automatically?

Yes, if set up accordingly. Dorgard has three nighttime release settings selectable during installation. To activate its internal clock, insert the batteries at midday and then configure the desired nighttime release option.

Can Dorgard be used within premises where there are double doors that may need to close in a sequence?

Yes, Dorgard can be used in this instance. Note that Dorgard does not control the speed of the door closing, and it is likely that some adjustments will need to be made to the closer on each door to manage the speed appropriately. For the doors to close in the correct sequence, the leaf that needs to close first must be set to close faster than the other.

Which regulatory standards does Dorgard adhere to?

Dorgard meets the BS EN 1155 standard for low voltage hold open devices, the EN 1634 for fire resistance and smoke control in door assemblies, and the BS 7273-4 for door release mechanisms.

Why isn't Dorgard's response to fire alarms instantaneous?

Dorgard checks for fire alarm sounds every 4 seconds and requires a consistent 10-second sound to initiate the closing mechanism. This design ensures a maximum delay of 14 seconds, similar to most hard-wired units.

Will one Dorgard-closed door limit other units' ability to detect the fire alarm?

No, as long as BS5839's sound level standards are maintained throughout the premises. If there's a slight drop in sound, Dorgards can be tweaked within allowable limits.

Before installing Dorgard, is an alarm audibility test necessary?

An initial test isn't mandatory as Dorgard can be adjusted. If it doesn't detect the alarm when you test your fire alarm, it might indicate the alarm isn't reaching the 65 dB minimum as per BS 5839, signaling a potential alarm system issue.