The Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) has offered advice to businesses wanting to limit the transmission of Covid-19 using biosafe hardware. “One of the more current and continuing problems the sector faces are the measures that will need to be taken going forward, to limit transmission of the virus,” said Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens, the DHF’s head of commercial operations. “Central to this is reducing ‘touchpoints’ throughout a building by means of anti-Covid hardware and fully automated doors, to enable access with no human contact. This is crucial for building owners and facilities managers.
“Something as simple as ensuring existing door hardware is being cleaned properly, with anti-bacterial detergent and water solution can make all the difference,” continued Patricia. “In areas of high traffic, products that enable doors to be opened without a person having to use their hands (eg using arm and foot pulls) can also be an easy and cost-effective solution.”
As the global pandemic continues, the DHF’s marketing subcommittee for building hardware group members has been working especially hard to identify the most pertinent issues facing the building hardware sector. “The committee has also recommended products that feature anti-microbial surfaces, which can dramatically reduce the risk of transmission, and hold-open door controls that can help keep doors open at all times, except in the case of an emergency,” said Patricia.
The DHF has also highlighted products for businesses seeking to offer a completely hands-free solution, such as access control devices that require a hand wave to open them, and doors fitted with motion-sensor technology, suitable for bathrooms, hospitals, laboratories and schools. Access control solutions using personalised keys can also provide an additional layer of protection, as sharing keys can quickly increase the spread of bacteria.
“With nearly all of the UK manufacturing companies forming the building hardware group, the marketing subcommittee is a vital link between our members and the message that is sent out to the wider industry,” said Patricia. “The next year, and beyond, will be a time of tremendous change, so we are delighted the subcommittee is dedicated to finding solutions to problems facing the building hardware sector in the post-Covid world.” Click here to download the DHF’s ‘Biosafe Hardware Best Practice Guide’, created at the end of last year.
