If you have vulnerable adults or children using your premises, then they are likely to be at risk of getting their fingers trapped between the door and its frame. How can finger guards prevent these accidents from happening, and when should they be fitted?
The risk
When the door closes into its frame, there are several points where your fingers might get trapped. A few of these points are:
Latch
The latch side of a door is relatively easy to reduce the risk, and you can choose to install self-closing devices that help reduce the pace of a closing door. Similarly, foam door bumpers can be used only where the door doesn't need to close completely.
Hinge trap
The wide gap that opens towards one side of the door is known as the hinge cavity, and it is one of the most dangerous points on a door for finger entrapment injuries. If you wish to prevent children and adults from hurting themselves, you can install a door hinge finger protector.
These finger protectors act as a barrier that seals the hinge side of the door completely, preventing anyone from getting their fingers stuck between the door and its frame. Since there have been thousands of finger entrapment incidents, it is now an established practice for particular doors fitted with door finger protectors.
It is worth noting that a self-closing device will also offer you some protection towards the hinge side of the door. However, there is still some risk to young children, which is why it would be best if you have door finger protectors in place.
Where should you fit these guards?
There are not any specific regulations that state where you should install these finger guards. Nevertheless, there is a catch. Because safety legislation is written, if it is an established practice to install them in certain situations, then, as seen in past cases, not having them installed may result in prosecution.
It is essential to have door finger guards installed in areas such as nurseries, creches, places used by the first two-year groups of school, and indoor play areas to serve young children. In any case, most authorities tend to insist on having these guards installed since they are cheap and can help you and your firm avoid a hefty fine.
If you are a manager or an owner of any other type of premises, it is your responsibility to assess any risk and mitigate it as soon as possible. We have noticed that finger trapping risks often increase when a door is heavy, in someplace where children have access. Keep in mind that the door may close on your finger as a result of a gust of wind.
Suppose you feel like there is a substantial risk of such accidents on your property and wish to prevent any emergency trips to the hospital. In that case, we strongly suggest you consider installing door finger guards. Don't worry; you can fit most finger guards available in the market by using simple hand tools and basic carpentry skills.