10 November 2020

Department for Education specifies integral finger guard

The UK Department for Education recently released the specification document for their Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) framework. 

The document is for technical professionals involved in the design and construction of school premises, to use as part of the Employer’s Requirements - and we're delighted that integral finger guards have been included on a spend-to-save basis.

integral-finger-guard-alumax-on-corridor-door-065-Albion
Albion School, London Borough of Southwark

What does the document say?

Section 5.8.2 of the Technical Annex 2D: Internal Elements and Finishes states:

'Where new doors require finger guards, the guard mechanism should be built into the door and frame, with a rounded stile that creates a gap between door and frame that remains constant as the door closes. An applied cover finger guard is only acceptable in refurbishment and only where the door is not being replaced; the cover must not affect the integrity of the doorset in terms of fire or acoustics. The proposed solution shall require minimal maintenance.'

What's an integral finger guard?

Built into the profile of the door, an integral finger guard designs out the problem of trapped fingers by using a rounded heel to eliminate the gap between door and frame. 

This type of finger guard (product name Alumax) is unique to SHP and was designed and patented by Safehinge Primera founders Philip Ross and Martin Izod whilst studying Product Design Engineering at the Glasgow School of Art / University of Glasgow.

SH-comparison---alumax-to-plastic-and-rubber-finger-guards

 

What does it mean for you?

Even with the proven benefits of integral finger guards, it was previously very difficult for schools and Local Education Authorities (LEAs) to ensure particular products were included in the specification of the building's construction.

Now, with the inclusion in the new framework guidelines, we're delighted that these clearer requirements will help schools, LEAs and architects to specify integral finger guards.

 


How can we help?

We'll be announcing more on this major milestone in the coming weeks! In the meantime, you can find out more about our patented integral finger guard below, and get in touch with any queries using our live chat on the bottom right corner of your screen, or contacting us on: 0330 058 0988 // info@safehingeprimera.com.

EXPLORE ALUMAX INTEGRAL FINGER GUARD