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How can you make sliding doors safer?

 Sliding doors are common in schools and offices because they save space and are easy to use. But they also come with a safety problem. Fingers and hands can get caught near the moving edge of the door. 

So what can be done to make sliding doors safer?

What makes sliding doors a safety concern?

Sliding doors can seem safer because they do not slam shut like hinged doors. But they can still cause injuries. Fingers can get trapped between the door edge and the frame. Children may also put their hands in the path of a closing door. The risk is higher with heavy doors or automatic systems.

To help prevent accidents, many sites use door safety products as part of a broader safety approach. These products usually fit into three main categories.

1. Finger protection systems for sliding doors

The best answer is usually a purpose-built door finger protection system made for sliding doors. One example is Safety Assured’s Slide Safe™ system. It creates a safer gap between the door and the frame, preventing fingers from getting caught in pinch points. It can also be fitted to different door types, from PVC to timber to aluminium. This kind of system removes access to the danger in the first place.

2. Gap and barrier solutions

Some safety systems protect people by creating more space between moving parts or by blocking access altogether. That means people are less likely to come into contact with the moving edge, while the door still works as it should.

Another advantage is that these solutions tend to have very little visual impact. They are a good fit for external sliding doors, patio doors and access points in schools.

3. Complementary door safety products

Sliding door safety works best as part of a wider approach. In many buildings, that also means checking finger protection on nearby hinged doors, installing anti-slam devices on other doors and carrying out proper risk assessments across the site.

Safety Assured presents its products in that broader way, as part of a complete door safety system rather than as one-off items.

Can sliding door safety solutions be retrofitted?

Yes. Most modern sliding door safety products can be added to existing doors without much trouble. They are usually designed to be non-invasive, so you can improve safety without damaging the structure or taking on a major renovation. Many also work with a range of door sizes and materials, which makes retrofitting a practical option in most cases.

What should building managers take away from this?

If you are in charge of building safety, don’t stop at lowering risk. Remove it wherever you can. With the right door safety products and proper finger protection, sliding doors can be every bit as safe as any other entrance.

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