Hi All,
I am just looking for a balance of opinions on self-closers on open deck access flats, i.e. where the flats open directly on to a balcony. The flats in question are two storey with a central open concrete stair giving access to flats either side of the stair with 5 flats on each side of the stair, so there are two dead ends.
The original doors have been replaced (probably 1960's build and would have been fitted with rising butt hinges) with new style fire rated FD30 doors but the self-closers were omitted because most tenants are elderly/frail or have mobility difficulties and could not open their flat doors. I think most of us would know that there is a conflict within ADB and ADM over the force required to close/open a fire door.
The flats guide would indicate that self-closers should be fitted, however if we recommended that approach it would apply to several hundred doors. There is non FR glazing above 1.1m in some doors and also in the windows adjacent to the flats (kitchens). I am just debating if the risk is any greater if there is a fire in a flat and the occupant leaves the door open, is that any different than the principle of other occupants ducking under a 1.1m non FR window? The flats are also suitable for a stay put policy.
I am just not sure that the benefit of installing self closers provides much reduction in risk balanced against substantial costs and also given it is likely that the occupants would disconnect the self closer anyway?
Any thoughts please?