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American National Standard for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors
BHMA is the North American Trade Association which represents almost all the North American manufacturers of Builders Hardware. One of their main activities since 1983 has been the development and maintenance of ANSI approved standards for 35 separate product categories.
Requirements in this Standard apply to power operated doors for pedestrian use which open automatically when approached by pedestrians and some small vehicular traffic or by a knowing act. Included are provisions to reduce the chance of user injury or entrapment.
BHMA has created this series of Hardware Highlights to provide useful, accessible information about builders hardware for architects, specifiers, builders, building code officials – anyone with an interest in devices that hang, control, secure, and trim the doors. For further information about power operated pedestrian doors, consult the full standard, ANSI/BHMA A156.10.
Below are an explanation and some examples of the performance specifications for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors:
The opening time of a swing door to 80 degrees shall not be less than 1.5 seconds. The force required to prevent a stopped power operated swinging door in the last 10 degrees of opening from moving in the direction of opening shall not exceed 30 lbf (133 N) measured 1 in. from the lock edge of the door.
The door shall remain fully open for a minimum time delay of five seconds after release of the knowing act device. If located more than 12 feet from the center of the door, there shall be an additional time delay of one second for each additional foot. For example, if the knowing act device is located 14 feet from the door, the delay shall be seven seconds.
A section is devoted to describe the necessary signage including the familiar “Automatic Door” sign. The exact font size, color and placement are shown. The “slow speed activation” sign, and “emergency stop” sign are also covered.
Because Builders Hardware provides several attributes that are essential to building safety and performance including egress and fire protection, BHMA products are designed to comply with all applicable requirements. ANSI/BHMA A156.10 is referenced in the International Building Code and NFPA 101.
ANSI/BHMA A156.10 is also referenced in A117.1 for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities and Power Operated Pedestrian Doors are commonly specified for accessible routes.
Power operated doors contribute to building sustainability through their verified durability, as well as material characteristics such as recycled content and recyclability. The reliable closing and sealing of openings can also contribute to energy conservation. BHMA is developing Product Category Rules, which will further define sustainability requirements and guide life cycle assessments and environmental performance declarations.
Signage
All low energy doors shall be marked with signage visible from both sides of the door, with the words "AUTOMATIC CAUTION DOOR" (See Figure 1). The sign shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter with black lettering on a yellow background. Additional information may be included.