Technical Overview: Operation of Automatic Doors
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Automatic doors (auto doors) are entrance systems that open and close without direct human effort, using sensors or automation technology to detect people or objects in their vicinity. They have become common features in public and commercial buildings across the UK – from shops and offices to hospitals – providing convenient, touch-free access. Modern automatic doors come in various forms, but all are designed to facilitate smooth entry/exit while ensuring user safety. In the UK, these systems must adhere to strict safety standards (notably BS EN 16005, the British/European standard for automatic pedestrian door safety) and relevant laws (Machinery Directive), and are typically installed and maintained by certified professionals
The following report provides a technical overview of how automatic doors operate, covering the main types of doors and their mechanisms, key components (sensors, controls, actuators), control logic, power supplies, safety features (obstruction detection, emergency overrides), and UK-specific safety compliance, training, and inspection requirements.
Main Types of Automatic Doors and Their Operation
Automatic doors in the UK are generally classified into several main types, each suited to different applications: sliding, swinging, revolving, and folding doors. Despite their differences, all these types must operate safely and reliably for users. Below is an overview of each type and how it functions:
Sliding Doors:
Sliding automatic doors consist of one or more door panels that slide horizontally along a track. Common configurations include single-slide (one panel slides to one side) and bi-parting (two panels slide apart in opposite directions) for wider openings. In operation, a motion sensor (e.g. microwave radar or infrared) positioned above or beside the doorway detects an approaching person and signals the door to open. The door’s controller activates an electric drive motor connected to a belt or gear mechanism, which smoothly slides the panel(s) open along the track. After a preset hold-open time, if sensors indicate the passage is clear, the controller closes the door by driving the panels back to the closed position. Guide rails and rollers support the moving panels, and gears or pulleys ensure controlled motion. Modern sliding door operators use microprocessor control units that can integrate with building systems – for example, they tie into access control systems or fire alarm signals to coordinate locking or automatic opening in emergencies. Sliding doors offer a wide, clear opening and are ideal for high-traffic entrances (e.g. retail stores, airports), where their linear movement does not encroach on interior space. Variants like telescopic sliding doors use multiple narrow panels that slide and stack, allowing an even wider clear opening in a compact space. Some sliding door systems also feature an emergency breakout function: in the event of a power failure or alarm, the sliding panels can be swung outwards to create a full width exit for safe egress (this is often required for escape routes). Overall, sliding doors provide efficient automated operation for large pedestrian flows, with the controller, sensors, and motor working in unison to open and close the doors smoothly and safely.
Swinging Doors:
Automatic swing doors are conventional hinged doors equipped with a power-operated swing door operator. They are among the most common automatic door types in the UK for entrances, since many existing single or double-leaf hinged doorways can be automated with an overhead or floor-mounted operator. In a swing door system, a sensor or push-button (activator) triggers the control unit to energise an electric actuator (usually an electromechanical arm or hydraulic/pneumatic piston) that opens the door leaf by rotating it on its hinges. The actuator arm (or linkage) pushes the door open to a controlled angle at a regulated speed. After a dwell time, the controller commands the door to close, often using a spring or the motor in reverse, again at a safe speed. Safety sensors are crucial with swinging doors to prevent the door from striking users: for example, presence sensors (often active infrared) mounted on or near the door will detect a person in the swing path and signal the controller to stop or slow the door if someone is too close. The system may also monitor the motor current or use safety edges to detect any obstruction during closing, causing the door to automatically reverse or reopen if an object is hit. Swing door operators can typically function in full-energy mode (fast opening for public use, requiring safety sensors per standards) or low-energy mode (doors move slower with limited force, sometimes used where sensors are not feasible – though UK regulations now generally require safety sensors even for low-energy automatics for maximum protection. Swing doors often have the advantage of allowing manual use in case of power loss or malfunction – users can push them open if the motor drive is unpowered, provided the operator is designed to “spring open” or back drive without power. Many swing operators also include a battery backup option to ensure the door can still operate (or at least open once) during a mains power failure. These doors are commonly used at building entrances, internal corridors, or where an existing hinged door needs automation (such as for disabled access compliance).
Revolving Doors:
Automatic revolving doors consist of a cylindrical enclosure with door wings (usually 2, 3 or 4 panels) that rotate around a central vertical axis. They provide an always-open, always-closed entrance that helps reduce drafts and save energy (minimising air exchange between inside and outside). In an automatic revolving door, presence sensors (often passive infrared or radar) detect an approaching person at the entry and cue the controller to start the door rotating at a safe, preset speed. The door wings are driven by an electric motor located in the canopy (overhead) or the floor, which turns the central shaft. The rotation speed is typically governed to a slow RPM for safety and comfort, and modern units dynamically adjust speed or stop if needed. Safety sensors are strategically placed to prevent contact injuries: for instance, sensors on the door wings and at the enclosure entrances detect if a person is too close to a moving wing. If an obstruction or person is detected in the path, the control system will slow or stop the rotation to avoid impact. Many revolving doors use overhead infrared curtains or ultrasonic sensors that create a detection zone ahead of the moving wings, plus safety pressure sensors or touch strips on the wing edges that will immediately stop the door if touched. Emergency stop buttons are usually provided inside the door drum for users to halt the door in an emergency. In addition, to comply with UK escape route requirements, automatic revolving doors are often equipped with a break-out or fold-away mechanism (the wings can collapse or swing open to create a clear passage in an emergency), or an adjacent swing door is provided as an alternative escape route. Revolving doors are commonly found in large building lobbies, hotels, and airports, balancing high traffic capacity with climate control. Their control system continuously coordinates sensors and motor activity: ensuring the door only rotates when safe to do so, and that it fails safe (slowly stops or opens) if any abnormal condition or alarm is detected.
Folding Doors
Automatic folding doors (also called bi-fold doors when two panels per side) have hinged panels that fold together as they open, like a concertina. They are an ideal solution when space is limited and a swing door’s full arc or a sliding door’s side clearance is not feasible. For example, in a narrow shop entrance opening directly onto a public footpath, a swing door might hit pedestrians, or a sliding door might not have wall space to slide into – a folding door neatly collapses to maximise the opening width. A typical automatic folding door has two panels that are hinged together; when activated, an overhead operator drives the panels to fold to one side (or both sides for a pair), providing an opening roughly twice the width of one panel. The mechanism usually involves an articulated arm and sliding track that coordinate the folding motion. As with other types, sensors (motion/approach sensors) trigger the door to open for an approaching user, and safety sensors monitor the threshold for obstructions. Folding doors are designed with anti-finger-trap measures since there are more hinge points – e.g. guarding or limited closing forces to prevent fingers getting caught. They are also advantageous in windy conditions: unlike a single large swing door, a folding door’s smaller panels catch less wind (“reduced sail effect”), making them more stable in gusts. UK installations of automatic folding doors, like others, must meet the safety criteria of BS EN 16005. These doors offer a space-saving, reliable entry solution for locations with limited clearance, while still providing fast and elegant automated access.
Key Components: Sensors, Control Units, and Actuators
All automatic door systems, regardless of type, share a common set of core components that work together to sense users and move the doors accordingly. The primary components are sensors (to detect people or objects), a control unit (the “brain” that processes inputs and issues commands), and actuators/motors (to physically move the door). Ancillary components like guides, belts, gears, and door hardware also play important roles. Below we detail these key components:
Sensors and Activation Devices
Sensors are essential for automatic doors to function intelligently and safely. They continuously scan the area around the doorway and provide input to the control system. In general, sensors on automatic doors fall into two categories: trigger sensors and safety sensors.
Trigger Sensors:
These are typically motion-detection sensors placed a little distance from the door (e.g. above the approach path). Their role is to detect a person (or another valid moving object) approaching the door and to signal the control unit to open the door in advance of the person reaching it. Common trigger sensors include microwave radar sensors (which detect movement via Doppler radar) and passive infrared (PIR) sensors (which detect the change in heat signature when a person nears). For example, a radar sensor mounted above an automatic sliding door will sense an approaching person ~1–2 meters away, causing the door to slide open so that it is fully open by the time the person arrives. Trigger sensors ensure a seamless experience – a user doesn’t have to break stride or manually activate the door. In some installations, floor-mounted pressure mats were used historically as triggers (the weight of someone stepping on the mat near the door sends an open signal), though modern systems more often use contactless motion sensors. Where unrestricted access is acceptable (no access control needed), trigger sensors are the preferred means of activation for convenience (e.g. exiting a building with hands full – the sensor opens the door automatically)
Safety Sensors:
These sensors are focused on preventing injury or door impacts. They monitor the immediate door area (the doorway threshold, swing path, or pinch points) and detect the presence of a person or obstacle in the door’s path of movement. If a potential collision or trapping hazard is detected, safety sensors will signal the controller to slow, stop, or reverse the door movement as appropriate. Common safety sensors include active infrared presence sensors, which emit infrared beams or fields near the door. For instance, a swinging door may have infrared sensor strips on the door leaf that create a protective curtain – if a person is in the swing arc or if fingers are near the hinge, breaking the IR beam causes the door to halt and/or reopen. Similarly, an automatic sliding door often has safety sensors covering the closing edges, so it won’t slide shut on someone standing in the doorway. Photoelectric safety beams are another example: a beam of infrared light projected across the door opening will, if interrupted by a person or object, trigger the door to reopen (this is analogous to the safety beam in a garage door). Some systems use laser scanners for precise detection, or pressure-sensitive edges on the doors that detect contact. According to BS EN 16005, power-operated doors must have appropriate safety sensors or limited forces to prevent harm. These sensors are “fail-safe” – many are designed to default to a safe state (door open or stopped) if a sensor fault occurs, rather than risk a door closing on a user) In summary, trigger sensors initiate door opening, while safety sensors prevent the door from closing (or keep it open) when a person is in the danger zone. Both types work together under the controller’s logic to ensure the door opens when needed and stays open until it is safe to close.
In addition to these sensors, automatic doors may be equipped with manual activation devices in some cases – for example, a push-to-open button or a touchless wave sensor that a user can deliberately trigger. These are often seen on accessible doors (for disabled access) or in low-energy swing door installations. Access control readers (card/fob readers, keypads, intercom release systems) can also act as trigger devices, allowing the door to open only for authorised users. All such activation inputs feed into the same controller, which then manages the door mechanism.
Control Units (Controllers)
The control unit (also called a controller or control board) is the electronic brain of an automatic door system. Typically, a microprocessor-based control panel, it receives input signals from all sensors and activation devices, processes them according to its programming, and sends output commands to the door’s motor/actuator and other components. The controller is usually a dedicated circuit board located in the door header or operator housing. Its functions include:
Interpreting sensor signals:
The controller monitors the trigger sensors to know when someone wants to enter/exit, and monitors safety sensors to know if it’s clear to close. For example, when a trigger sensor indicates a person is approaching, the controller verifies the door is not in an alarm state and then initiates an opening cycle. Before closing, it checks that safety sensors show no obstruction. Essentially, it arbitrates the “open” and “close” commands based on real-time sensor data.
Motor control:
The controller drives the door’s electric motor (or hydraulic unit) via a power output. It often uses a programmable speed and torque profile to open and close smoothly. For instance, it may ramp the motor speed up gently to start moving the door, then slow down near fully open or closed position to avoid slamming. It also limits the force exerted by the door. Many controllers use closed-loop feedback (monitoring motor current or position) to precisely control motion. If the door meets resistance (e.g. person in the way), the spike in motor current is sensed and the controller can stop or reverse the motor to prevent injury – this is a form of obstruction detection at the controller level.
Coordination and timing:
The control unit maintains the timing for how long the door stays open (hold-open time adjustable depending on traffic flow or accessibility needs). It ensures the door doesn’t close too quickly after someone passes. It may also coordinate between multiple doors – for example, in a lobby with inner and outer doors, controllers can be interlinked so that the inner door only opens after the outer door closes (an airlock function). Controllers often have modes like automatic, hold-open, exit-only, night lock, etc., which can be selected via a program switch by building staff). This allows changing the door behavior (e.g. keeping doors open during business hours vs. locked closed after hours, or open one-way for exit only).
Integration:
Modern controllers integrate with other building systems. A high-tech controller can tie into fire alarm or security systems. For example, on a fire alarm, the controller may unlock and open the doors (or ensure they can be pushed open) to allow emergency egress. Controllers can accept inputs from fire alarm panels, remote emergency pushbuttons, or building management systems to override normal operation in emergencies. They also often have self-diagnostic functions (monitoring the health of sensors, motor, battery, etc., and showing error codes if something is amiss). In the UK, controllers must comply with the safety logic requirements of BS EN 16005 – for instance, ensuring that any single failure does not lead to an unsafe condition (typically achieved by fail-safe design or redundant sensor checks).
In summary, the control unit orchestrates the door’s movement by processing sensor inputs and directing the actuators accordingly. It is programmed to maintain safety as the top priority: the door should open promptly when a user approaches, remain open as long as necessary, and close only when no hazard is detected. The coordination between sensor detection and mechanical motion all happens through the logic in the control unit.
Actuators and Motors (Door Operators)
The actuator is the component that converts electrical commands from the controller into physical movement of the door. In most automatic doors, this is accomplished by an electric motor drive unit (sometimes called the door operator). The type of actuator varies with door type:
- For sliding doors
The actuator is typically an electric motor coupled to a gear reduction and a toothed belt or drive rail. When activated, the motor winds the belt to pull the door panel open or closed along its track. Commonly, a DC permanent magnet motor or AC motor with inverter control is used, providing smooth acceleration and deceleration. The motor and gears are housed in the header above the door. Rollers attached to the door panel ride in the track to support and guide the door’s motion. When the controller signals open, the motor drives the belt in the direction that pulls the door open; to close, it drives in reverse. If power is cut, many sliding door systems allow the door to be pushed open manually (some have a clutch or slack in the drive for this purpose, or a separate disengage lever). High-quality sliding door operators are robust and can handle frequent cycles in busy entrances, with components engineered for durability.
- For swing doors
The actuator usually consists of a motor and gearbox that drive a rotating arm. Two common designs are overhead swing operators (a box above the door containing the motor and a linkage arm that attaches to the door) and concealed floor spring operators (motor in the floor with a drive arm on the pivot). When triggered, the motor output turns the arm which pushes or pulls the door leaf open. Many swing door motors are low-voltage DC with high torque gearing, capable of moving heavy doors. They often incorporate a spring or counterbalance so that if the motor is unpowered, the spring can close the door or allow manual push open. Some swing operators use hydraulic dampers to control speed. Battery backup is often built-in or optional, so a short-term power loss doesn’t disable the door – the battery can either perform a limited number of cycles or at least default the door to a safe position (usually open or unlocked).
- For revolving doors
the actuator is a motor (or pair of motors) that rotate the central shaft carrying the door wings. This is generally an electric motor with a gearbox designed for continuous duty, often located in the ceiling space above the rotating door (inside the canopy). It drives the spindle directly or via a chain. The motor controller maintains a steady rotation speed and can apply higher torque at startup to overcome inertia, then limit torque when people are pushing on the doors (for safety). Sensors on the motor (like encoders) report the speed and position to the controller, so it knows the door’s orientation and can, for example, stop with wings aligned for egress if needed. Revolving doors also commonly include a manual drive mode or a way to push the door in emergency – some have a mechanical disengage so that people can push the wings freely if power fails.
- For folding doors
The actuator mechanism often combines features of sliding and swinging operators. A motor drives a linked arm assembly that both swings and slides the panels, so they fold. Typically, an overhead operator with a small motor handle this coordinated motion. The folding action is guided by hinges between panels and a track for the leading edge. As with others, a spring or damping mechanism controls the motion if the motor isn’t active.
Regardless of type, actuators are designed with power limitation and smooth control in mind. UK safety standards (BS EN 16005) specify limits on the kinetic energy and forces doors can impart, so the motor and control system ensure the door slows or stops when encountering resistance. Many automatic door motors also include an electric brake to hold the door in place when closed (preventing it from being forced open) and to stop precisely at end of travel. Gears and belts are key parts of the actuator system, translating the fast rotation of the motor into the slower, forceful motion needed to move a door leaf. For example, a sliding door might use a belt that the motor pulley moves, or a swing door might use a gear train that turns an output shaft connected to the door arm. These mechanical components must be kept in good condition – regular lubrication and maintenance are required to ensure reliable operation.
In summary, the actuator/motor provides the muscle to move the door, under command of the controller. Control panels, motors, and gears work in unison so that when sensors detect someone, the motor opens the door, and when it’s safe to close, the motor drives the door shut smoothly. All components are chosen to handle the door’s weight and usage frequency – heavy-duty operators for busy public doors, lighter units for smaller internal doors, etc. Properly functioning actuators combined with intelligent controls result in an automatic door that is responsive and efficient in operation.
Power Supply and Backup Systems
Automatic door systems in the UK are usually powered by the mains electricity supply (230V AC). The door’s controller will have a transformer or power supply module to convert mains to the low voltages needed by the electronics and motor (often 12V to 48V DC systems for motors, depending on design). Because these doors provide critical entry and exit paths, a reliable power supply and contingency for power loss are important design considerations.
Primary Power:
In a typical installation, the door is hard-wired to a fused spur or distribution board. The controller manages power to the motor and sensors. Many controllers include voltage monitoring; if the supply voltage falls out of range, the system may enter a safe state.
Battery Backup:
Most modern automatic door operators offer a battery backup option (sometimes standard, sometimes add-on). This involves a rechargeable battery (or battery pack) connected to the controller. In the event of a mains power failure, the controller automatically switches to battery power. Backup batteries are usually sized to either keep the door functional for a limited number of cycles (e.g. enough to see people out of the building) or at minimum to move the door to a safe position (open or unlocked) once. For instance, an automatic swing door might get a few powered open/close cycles from its battery, or a sliding door might open and remain open. J. Manny, a UK automatic door supplier, notes that with swing doors a battery back-up can be installed, or otherwise the door can be used manually during a power cut. This ensures that even during an outage, people are not trapped and can still exit. In some cases, if the door is on an emergency escape route, standards require that loss of power must not prevent evacuation – so either the door must fail-safe (open or release) or have backup power to open automatically. Typically, backup batteries are trickle-charged during normal operation, so they remain charged.
Emergency Power-off and Manual Override:
Beyond battery backup, automatic doors are equipped with ways to override the system manually. Nearly all have a manual method to open the door – for sliding doors, one can simply push them aside (many have a disengage lever that disconnects the drive, or the sliding leaves can be pushed if enough force is applied once the motor is unpowered). Swing doors can always be pushed or pulled by hand if the motor is not actively holding (the operator allows back drive or has a clutch). Revolving doors might have a manual push mode or a mechanism to collapse the doors for egress. Some systems incorporate a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) if continuous operation is critical, but that’s less common for pedestrian doors, where battery packs suffice. Fire alarm integration is also part of the power safety concept: on fire alarm, many automatic doors are configured to fail safe open or unlock – some will automatically swing or slide open using battery power, others just unlock so people can push them. The control unit’s integration with fire signals ensures that even if normal power is cut by the fire system, the door knows to default to an evacuation-friendly state.
Power Monitoring:
The system may have indicators for power status – e.g. a light that shows when on backup battery. Maintenance routines include checking the battery condition, as batteries degrade over time.
In summary, automatic doors rely on mains electricity, but they include backup systems and manual overrides to handle power failures safely. UK regulations (and common-sense safety) demand that a loss of power must not endanger building occupants or leave the door locked shut. Thus, through battery backups and fail-safe design, automatic doors are prepared for power interruptions, allowing continued safe egress from the building.
Safety Features and Compliance with UK Standards
Safety is paramount in automatic door design and operation. Doors must detect obstacles, avoid hitting users, and allow emergency egress under all conditions. In the UK, safety features are not merely optional – they are mandated by standards and regulations, chiefly BS EN 16005:2012 (soon updated to 2023) which is the code of practice for safety in use of powered pedestrian doors. BS EN 16005 (adopted as a British Standard) sets out requirements and test methods to ensure automatic doors are safe for users, and it has been in effect for all new installations since April 2013. Below we outline the key safety features and measures, along with UK compliance considerations:
Obstruction Detection & Reversal:
As discussed earlier, automatic doors employ safety sensors that detect the presence of people in the door path, causing the door to stop or reopen to prevent contact. This includes overhead presence sensors, safety light beams, and on-door sensors that create a protective zone. Additionally, many door operators monitor the motor’s effort; if the door encounters an unusual resistance (as would happen if it presses against a person or object), the controller recognises a possible obstruction and will immediately stop and reverse the door. BS EN 16005 specifies limits on closing forces and requires that powered doors “shall not cause danger by impact or trapping”, which in practice means the door must either limit its force or have sensors to prevent forceful contact. Auto-reverse on obstruction is a common feature to comply with this. For sliding doors, safety sensors covering the doorway ensure if someone lingers in the doorway the door stays open. For swing doors, sensors cover the swing arc, and some also use pressure-sensitive edges that will trigger reversal if they lightly touch something. These measures greatly reduce the risk of the door striking or pinching a user. In the UK, an older standard BS 7036 had similar provisions; BS EN 16005 built on this, making certain safety sensors mandatory even for slower “low energy” doors.
Speed and Force Limitation:
The control system is typically programmed to limit the door’s speed and force to safe levels. Revolving doors, for example, are limited to a certain rotation speed based on door diameter (larger diameter doors can turn a bit faster safely than small ones, but all are relatively slow to walk through). Swing doors in low-energy mode move with reduced kinetic energy. This ensures that if a user does collide with a moving door, the impact is unlikely to cause serious injury. BS EN 16005 provides formulas for maximum kinetic energy of moving door panels and requires checking these during commissioning. Soft start/stop motion profiles also contribute – the door doesn’t jump to full speed immediately nor slam shut.
Emergency Stop and Break-Out Features:
Automatic doors include emergency override controls. An emergency stop button is often installed near the doorway (typically a red mushroom pushbutton) which, when hit, will immediately stop the door’s movement. This can be used by staff or users if something is wrong (for instance, someone caught or a hazard). In addition, some doors (especially revolving and sliding types on escape routes) have mechanical break-out features. Break-out means the door leaves can be pushed out of their normal track. On many UK sliding doors designated as emergency exits, the sliding panels and any fixed sidelights are fitted with special hinge pivots that allow them to swing outwards if a certain force is applied – converting the sliding door into a swinging exit door for escape. Revolving doors often have wings that can fold or doors that collapse under pressure to create an open pathway. These features ensure that people can escape quickly through the doorway if the automatic function fails or if there’s a panic situation. Building regulations may require that an automatic door on an escape route either has a break-out mechanism or is arranged to fail open on power loss, with appropriate signage indicating that pushing will open it in an emergency.
Fire Safety Integration:
A crucial safety aspect is how the door behaves in a fire or alarm scenario. UK fire safety codes (and BS EN 16005) require that automatic doors do not impede escape or firefighting access. Many automatic doors are connected to the building’s fire alarm system. On alarm, depending on the door’s role in fire strategy, the controller might automatically open the door and then cut power (so it stays open for egress), or just unlock it if it’s a secure door, or in some cases close it if it’s meant to act as a barrier to smoke (less common for entrance doors, more for internal fire compartment doors). For example, an automatic sliding entrance might be configured to slide open and remain open when the fire alarm triggers. If the door has an electric lock, it must release on alarm. BS EN 16005 includes provisions for fail-safe operation – essentially, the door should default to a safe state for evacuation during power or system failure. This is often achieved via the backup battery or a simple mechanical fail-safe that causes the door to swing freely if powered down.
Safety Signage and Warnings:
One often overlooked safety feature is proper signage. EN 16005 explicitly mentions the need for clear signage to warn or guide users ([How to comply with EN16005 regulations for automatic door installs. For instance, glass automatic doors must be clearly marked so people see the glass. “Automatic door – stand clear” signs may be used. On revolving doors, signage typically instructs users to use the adjacent escape door in case of emergency. Also, labels indicating “Push to open in emergency” are placed on break-out panels. These visual cues are considered part of the system’s safety measures.
Safety Barriers and Guarding:
In some installations, barriers or guard rails are used to steer pedestrian traffic and keep people away from hazardous areas of the door mechanism ([How to comply with EN16005 regulations for automatic door installs. For example, with sliding doors, a guard rail might be placed to prevent people from standing too close to the moving panel’s path (hinge pocket or the wall into which the door slides). Similarly, a swinging door that opens outwards onto a public footpath might have barriers to prevent someone from standing right in the swing zone. BS EN 16005 provides guidance on guarding requirements, such as protecting the gap at the hinge side of swing doors to avoid finger trapping – often finger protection strips are installed on the hinge side to cover the gap when the door opens, since the standard now highlights a minimum height (1.9 m) for finger protection on the hinge side of automatic doors.
Compliance and Testing:
Compliance with BS EN 16005 means that an automatic door has been installed with all required safety features and has passed a risk assessment and commissioning tests. EN 16005 covers risk assessment for vulnerable users (children, elderly, disabled) and outlines tests like force measurements and sensor coverage tests. In the UK, it’s common for installers to use a test object (per BS EN 16005 specifications) to verify sensor detection zones and make sure the door stops appropriately. The standard also requires documentation and a declaration of conformity for the door installation as a machine. Being a “harmonised” standard under the Machinery Directive, adherence gives a presumption of conformity with legal safety requirements ([Automatic Door Suppliers Association: New Standards for 2024.
In summary, safety features of automatic doors include electronic sensors to detect people and obstructions, controlled low-energy movement or force limitation, emergency stop controls, fail-safe defaults (open or unlocked on power loss), break-out mechanisms for escape, and clear user warnings. All these are aimed at preventing accidents. Thanks to these layers of protection, well-maintained automatic doors can be very safe – but they also require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure all safety devices remain functional (dirty sensors or misaligned beams, for example, could compromise safety). This leads to the importance of proper training and upkeep in the UK context, as discussed next.
UK Training, Certification, and Inspection Requirements
Given the technical and safety-critical nature of automatic doors, the UK has established industry bodies and standards to ensure that only competent professionals install and maintain these systems. Two key organisations are the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) and the Automatic Door Installation Association (ADIA), which provide training, certification, and guidance on compliance. UK engineers, facilities managers, or building owners dealing with automatic doors should be aware of the following:
Certified Installers/Engineers:
Both ADSA and ADIA run training programs culminating in certification that an individual is competent with automatic door safety standards (notably BS EN 16005). ADSA offers the ADSA Authorised Technician scheme, which includes a BS EN 16005 exam. According to ADSA, this qualification is “the only industry standard recognised across the construction industry, local authorities and automatic door users”. It verifies that the holder understands and can apply the safety requirements. ADIA offers a City & Guilds accredited course on BS EN 16005. In fact, the ADIA’s BS EN 16005 course is currently the only one accredited by City & Guilds in partnership with the Construction Skills Certification Scheme, and those who pass are listed on the DoorSafe Register of accredited engineers. In practice, when hiring a company to install or service automatic doors in the UK, it is highly recommended (and often required in tenders) that the technicians have an ADSA or ADIA qualification in BS EN 16005. These certifications must be kept up to date – for example, ADIA requires a refresher course every four years to ensure engineers remain current with standards and best practices.
Training Content:
The training covers not just the theory of how the doors work, but also practical knowledge of adjusting sensors, performing risk assessments, and maintenance. Engineers are taught how to carry out force tests, set sensor alignment, and verify all safety features according to BS EN 16005’s checklist. The emphasis is on safety and aftercare – ensuring the door remains safe throughout its life. This industry-led certification emerged because automatic doors, as “machines,” require a competent person to sign off their safety (per the Machinery Directive). ADSA was heavily involved in formulating and promoting the BS EN 16005 standard, and both ADSA/ADIA have helped disseminate its requirements through these courses.
Regular Inspection & Maintenance:
UK guidance strongly emphasizes regular maintenance of automatic doors. These systems should be inspected and serviced at least annually – and more frequently for very high-traffic doors – to check that sensors and safety features work correctly and to prevent any component failures in use. As noted in an industry insight, automatic door openers have an average lifespan of ~8 years, “making annual checks and regular maintenance essential to guaranteeing safety.”
Maintenance visits typically include cleaning sensors (dust can impede them), verifying alignment of beams, testing battery backup, checking the door tracks for wear, lubricating moving parts, and performing a safety test (e.g. sticking an object in the door’s path to ensure it reacts properly). Both ADSA and ADIA provide their members with standard maintenance checklists and risk assessment forms aligned to BS EN 16005. These forms ensure that every aspect (from signage to sensor range to force measurement) is evaluated and any risks are noted and mitigated. In the UK, building owners are responsible under the Health and Safety at Work Act and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) to ensure equipment like automatic doors is safe, which in practice means maintaining it per the manufacturer’s recommendations and relevant standards. Insurance and liability considerations also make it crucial to have documented maintenance by qualified engineers.
ADSA / ADIA Guidance
these associations also issue guidance notes and updates. For example, if standards are revised (such as the introduction of EN 16005:2023 with some changes ([Automatic Door Suppliers Association: New Standards for 2024, they inform members of new requirements and how to comply. ADSA periodically publishes newsletters or bulletins on best practices (e.g. reminding about risk assessments for vulnerable users or clarifying points of the standard). ADIA through the Door Industry Journal and other channels educates the industry on compliance – highlighting that a “compliant automatic door must conform to BS EN 16005 and the Machinery Directive”, and that those working on such doors must be knowledgeable about this standard. In essence, these bodies help coordinate a consistent level of safety and professionalism in the UK automatic door industry.
Inspection Requirements:
There is no statutory “mot test” for automatic doors, but standards and associations recommend schedule checks. BS EN 16005 itself suggests that doors should be subject to periodic inspection by a qualified person. ADSA members, for instance, often place a sticker on the door with the date of the last service and when the next is due (much like a lift/elevator service sticker). Also, after any installation or major repair, a safety checklist should be completed and a declaration of conformity issued. If an incident occurs involving an automatic door, having records of proper installation and maintenance by certified engineers is vital for demonstrating compliance.
In summary, the UK ensures automatic door safety not just through design standards but through competent personnel and ongoing vigilance. Installers and maintainers are expected to be trained to the level of BS EN 16005 via ADSA or ADIA certifications. Building owners should engage such certified professionals for installation and regular maintenance. By following the guidance of these industry bodies and adhering to standards, one can achieve safe, reliable automatic door operation throughout the door’s lifespan. Regular inspections (at least annual) are essential to catch any issues early and keep the door in compliance with UK safety requirements
Automatic doors in the UK employ a sophisticated interplay of sensors, control systems, and mechanical actuators to provide seamless entry while prioritising safety. We have seen that the main types – sliding, swinging, revolving, and folding doors – each have distinct mechanisms, yet all rely on sensor inputs (motion and presence detection) and intelligent controllers to operate their motors and move the doors safely. Key components like microwave motion sensors, infrared safety beams, microprocessor control units, and electromechanical drive motors work together so that doors open automatically for approaching users and close once it is safe to do so. Robust power supply arrangements, including battery backups, ensure doors fail safe (often open) during power cuts or emergencies. Comprehensive safety features – from obstruction detection and auto-reversal to emergency stop controls and fire alarm integration – are built in to prevent accidents and allow quick egress when needed. All these aspects are governed by the BS EN 16005 standard, which codifies the safety requirements for automatic pedestrian doors in the UK and Europe. Adherence to this standard (and its upcoming revisions) is critical: since 2013, any new automatic door must comply with BS EN 16005, and this is ensured through industry schemes.
To maintain these high safety levels, the UK industry utilises training and certification programs (ADSA, ADIA) to qualify engineers, and stresses regular maintenance and inspection regimes
An automatic door is not a fit-and-forget installation – it requires competent setup and ongoing care. When properly installed and maintained, automatic doors greatly enhance accessibility and convenience in buildings, operating smoothly while safeguarding all users. By following the guidelines and standards discussed, UK engineers, facilities managers, and architects can confidently implement automatic door systems that meet both functional needs and stringent safety criteria.
Sources:
- Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) – Standards and training information www.theadia.co.uk
Door Industry Journal - https://dijonline.co.uk/spring2023/88/#:~:text=to%20make%20their%20automatic%20doors,This
https://dijonline.co.uk/spring2023/88/#:~:text=Where%20do%20I%20find%20these,date%20BS%20EN16005
- J. Manny Ltd (UK automatic door supplier) – Product literature on door types and controls https://jmanny.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/J_Manny_-_Digital_Brochure.pdf#:~:text=24%2026%20AUTOMATIC%20SLIDING%20DOORS,SWING%20DOORS%20AUTOMATIC%20FOLDING%20DOORS
- CDVI UK – https://www.cdvi.co.uk/blog-what-is-en16005-and-how-do-you-comply-with-it
- KCC Group (UK) – https://thekccgroup.com/solution/automatic-doors/#:~:text=to%20ensure%20a%20smooth%20and,responsive%20and%20efficient%20door%20system
- Boon Edam UK – https://www.boonedam.com/products/revolving-doors/tourniket#:~:text=Edam%20www,preventing%2C%20impact%20with%20the%20user
- Automatic Access (UK) – https://www.automaticaccess.co.uk/blog/bs-en16005-the-new-standard-for-automatic-door-installations
Dorma - Swing door operators – Dormakaba - https://www.dormakaba.com/gb-en/offering/products/entrance-systems/swing-door-operators-and-swing-door-systems#:~:text=Swing%20door%20operators%20,for%20internal%20and%20external%20doors