Dorgard is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing fire alarm systems. It listens for the sound of the fire alarm and releases the door upon detecting the alarm for a minimum of 14 seconds ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
Casualty Handling Buying Guide
Introduction to Dorgard
Dorgard is a versatile, battery-operated device designed to safely and legally hold open fire doors, rather than wedging them open. This device offers a practical solution for maintaining fire safety while allowing easy passage through doors in various settings, such as offices, schools, healthcare facilities, hospitality settings and more.
When a fire alarm sounds for at least 14 seconds, Dorgard automatically releases the fire door, ensuring it closes to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
It is dangerous to wedge or prop open a fire door as the safety of occupants cannot be guaranteed if there is a fire. Fire doors need to be closed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
Legally, if you wedge open a fire door and it is judged that this puts someone’s life at risk, you could suffer penalties, including a fine or even a prison sentence, as well as invalidated insurance.
Dorgard provides an effective and affordable solution to this.
How does Dorgard work?
Dorgard enables you to legally and safely keep fire doors open. When the fire alarm sounds, Dorgard releases, enabling the fire door to close, preventing the spread of fire and smoke.
Installed onto the bottom of the fire door in under five minutes, Dorgard is listening for a continuous fire alarm of 14 seconds or more. Dorgard responds to sounds above 65 dB. in line with BS5839's minimum fire alarm sound level recommendation.
Key Features and Functionality
1. Fire Alarm Integration
2. Easy Installation
Dorgard is straightforward to install, taking less than 5 minutes, requiring only basic tools and a few steps:
- Fit the Dorgard to the door using the provided screws – see the device manual for full preparation and installation steps.
- Ensure the rubber foot makes good contact with the floor to hold the door open securely.
- Test the device to confirm it operates correctly with your fire alarm system.
3. Adjustable Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the Dorgard can be adjusted to ensure it only responds to the fire alarm and not to other loud noises in the environment. This feature is crucial in busy settings where ambient noise levels can vary significantly.
4. Timed Release Function
Dorgard includes a daily timed release function, allowing you to set a specific time for the door to close automatically. This feature helps maintain security and fire safety outside of regular business hours.
5. Maintenance Indicators
The device provides visual and audible indicators for low battery levels and other maintenance needs. This proactive notification system ensures the Dorgard remains operational and reliable at all times.
Suitable Door Types
Dorgard must be used in conjunction with a suitable fire alarm system with automatic detection and fitted to a fire-rated door that mechanically self-closes. When installed correctly, Dorgard complies with BS 7273-4 Category B.
In situations where the floor may be uneven or slippery, Dorgard can be used in conjunction with floor plates to ensure a secure hold. These floor plates provide additional stability, making Dorgard effective even in challenging environments.
Where to Use Dorgard
Dorgard is ideal for any environment where fire doors need to be held open for convenience but must automatically close in the event of a fire and are used across a wide array of commercial premises. Some typical applications include:
Offices
To allow easy movement between rooms while ensuring fire safety.
Schools
To keep corridors open during busy periods while maintaining safety protocols.
Healthcare Facilities
To enable quick and unhindered access through fire doors without compromising safety.
Hotels and Restaurants
To improve accessibility and convenience for guests and staff without compromising safety.
Benefits of Using Dorgard
Dorgard is ideal for any environment where fire doors need to be held open for convenience but must automatically close in the event of a fire and are used across a wide array of commercial premises. Some typical applications include:
Enhanced Safety Compliance
Dorgard helps ensure that your building complies with fire safety regulations by automatically releasing fire doors in response to a fire alarm.
Improved Accessibility
By holding fire doors open, Dorgard makes it easier for people, including those with disabilities or those carrying heavy items, to move through the building without having to manually open doors.
Energy Efficiency
Keeping doors open with Dorgard can improve ventilation and temperature control in a building, potentially reducing the need for air conditioning and heating.
Cost-Effective Solution
Dorgard is a cost-effective alternative to more complex and expensive fire door release systems. Its battery operation eliminates the need for extensive wiring or power supply modifications.
Conclusion
Dorgard offers a practical, efficient, and compliant solution for holding open fire doors in various settings. Its ease of installation, adjustable sensitivity, and maintenance features make it a reliable choice for enhancing both accessibility and fire safety. Whether you manage an office, school, healthcare facility, or any other building with fire doors, Dorgard can provide the safety and convenience you need at a very affordable price.
For further detailed information, view the FAQs on our product page, as well as the product manual.
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