BUY QUALITY AND BUY ONCE

Craig Fox Sales Director at Strand Hardware looks at why finger protection devices need to meet quality standards

“It’s just a load of BS!” When you think of those initials you might immediately think of their common usage but when it comes to setting standards for architectural ironmongery, they set the bar higher.

British and European standards provide specifiers, architects/designers, health and safety professionals and facility managers with guidance as to what works well, what type of devices should be applied to various door sets, what’s durable and essentially, what is safe to use.

When is comes to finger protection, the gold standard is BS EN 8613: 2017. This defines finger protection as “a device intended to minimise the risk of crushing injuries to fingers in the gap between the hanging stile of the door leaf and the door frame". When it comes to the development and management of commercial buildings, risk assessment and identification of appropriate solutions is essential.

In premises that are used by the public - especially children, the elderly or vulnerable adults - retail establishments, schools, hospitals, care homes and health centres it is essential to minimise risk.

It is estimated that between 40,000 and 80,000 accidents occur every year, mainly involving children who trap their fingers in doors, leading to serious injury, and in some cases amputation. Many more minor injuries are believed to go unreported.

The standard provides a benchmark to which professionals can refer, fulfilling a duty of care with an understanding appropriateness and performance values. It also assists manufacturers to design fit-for-purpose products.

There are various types of finger protection devices available, some are integrated within the door system, others cover the gap between door and frame. They include:

• gap cover - roller blind
• hinge knuckle protection
• integrated door and finger protection device
• rigid shield gap covers
• gap and knuckle protection
• integrated door and finger protection system

BS 8613 specifies requirements and test methods for durability, strength and effective function of finger protection. It also stipulates that BS 8613 products must bear clear manufacturers markings and classification and undergo rigorous testing. This includes assessment of durability and effectiveness applied to conditions and temperature.

Strand Hardware supplied approximately 400, FP200 finger guards to Lockhart Campus School, Stevenston, North Ayrshire, Scotland through its customer Aspex Scotland Ltd.

Sadly, not all products on sale in the UK meet this standard. In recent years, we have seen the market flooded by cheap imports, many with components that are far from durable. Often made from plastic, they can become brittle and break, becoming a hazard in themselves.

In contrast, as one of the UK’s market leaders in the supply of quality finger protection devices, Strand Hardware puts quality and reliability high on its list of priorities. The durability of our range means that they are literally ‘fit and forget’ products.

We refuse to stock any ‘one product fits all’ products, choosing to offer an extensive range of devices suitable for a variety of door materials and applications, working closely with our customers and architects to provide the ideal solution for their project needs.

Indeed, we are so confident of our product durability that some come with a lifetime guarantee.

There are other benefits to buying quality: bespoke sizes for items up to 2500mm and special RAL powder coated finishes for customisation.

Often buying choices come down to budget but safety should never be compromised. So, when it comes to finger protection, don’t be tempted to buy cheap. It makes sense to buy once and buy quality…and that’s no BS!

To find out more about Strand Hardware click here.