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Automatic Doors

For all things automatic doors and the benefits they provide to your business.

Safety Sensors FAQ Icon

Safety Sensors

See the most frequently queried questions for safety sensors and compliance.

Service & Warranty FAQ Icon

Service & Warranty

Find out everything you need to know about your service and warranty availability.

Delivery FAQ Icon

Delivery & Installation

Common questions regarding your automatic door delivery and installation.

Repairs & Callouts FAQ Icon

Repairs & Callouts

For further information regarding on-site visits, breakdowns and automatic door repairs.

Automatic Doors

What types of automatic doors do you supply and install?

Automatic doors provide the ideal solution for ease of access into and around buildings in compliance with the requirements of the Equality Act and BS 8300-2:2018 Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment.

The Equality Act 2010 (replaced the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)) requires all building owners to make reasonable adjustments to premises to ensure ease of access for all users, including people with disabilities.   

Compliance also requires that any automatic doors have responsive activation and sensors, appropriate opening times, flush thresholds, and clear pathways.

We offer a full range of automatic sliding doors designed for heavy footfall environments like hospitals, supermarkets and transport hubs. Learn more about our sliding door solutions.

Automatic Swing door operators can be retrofitted to existing doors.

How will my automatic door be activated?

Typically, automatic doors are activated by sensors that detect personnel and objects within an adjustable range (automatic opening).

Alternatively, if you would prefer intentionally activated automatic opening, i.e. requiring action by the user, there are a variety of operations including push pads, access control systems, or Touch Free switches.  These contactless sensors operate with a hand motion, allowing the door to open automatically in a controlled, intentional way.

For more information on methods of activation for automatic sliding doors click here.

Will the automatic door system use a lot of electricity?

Automatic Doors use minimal power to function and can help reduce energy and heat loss by ensuring your door is only opened when required and always returned to its fully closed position.

Our experience in maintaining door systems enables us to only select products that are reliable and built to last, maximising your investment from a longevity and cost perspective.

Are automatic doors suitable for fire doors?

Automatic Sliding Doors

Automatic sliding doors that comply with BS EN 16005 must have an emergency battery backup incorporated into the system. This means they can continue working even in the event of mains power failure.

They can also be connected to the fire alarm to open once it is activated. It is possible to programme them to stay shut, either for smoke control or if the door in an open position contributes to oxygen fuelling the fire. The sliding door can remain open or closed – whichever is required for safety reasons.

There are various fire and smoke control options for automatic doors. To help maximise fire safety in your premises, please contact us for further information on our automatic doors.

Automatic Swing Doors

Automatic swing door systems without a battery backup can be pulled or pushed open in an emergency in the event of power failure.  However, here at Automatic Access, we also have a battery backup for swing doors as an added feature if required.

A swing unit, otherwise known as an inverse operator, will remain closed for smoke control. Our “Dependable” model is fire-rated and reliably closes to prevent the spread of fire. It can be combined with a range of fire protection profile systems and used wherever automatic fire and smoke protection barrier doors are beneficial.

There are various fire and smoke control options for automatic doors.  Swing doors can be connected to the fire alarm and opened on activation.

Recommended for smoke clearance and room ventilation in the event of a fire, the “Safe” model opens without power, using spring tension.

To help maximise fire safety in your premises, please contact us for further information on our automatic doors.

Can you automate my existing manual swing door?

Most types of manual swing door (hinged doors that are pushed or pulled to open), are suitable for use with automatic swing door operators, allowing existing doors to be easily upgraded to provide automatic opening and closing that is reliable and easy to use.

Automatic Swing door operators are usually fixed above the door and use a swing arm fixed to the door leaf to push or pull the door for automatic opening and closure. 

Our automatic swing door range includes options for full power, low energy or assisted power operation.

Can anyone fit an automatic swing door operator to my existing hinged door?

Not in the UK.  Powered pedestrian door equipment must only be installed, checked and serviced by a qualified person or company that complies with the regulatory requirements of BS EN 16005:2023 Power operated pedestrian doorsets and with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulation, the Machinery Directive and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.

All Automatic Access engineers are trained and accredited under the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) scheme to ensure your automatic doors to conform to UK and European standards and remain safe in use.

Are automatic doors a good solution for disabled access?

We supply and install a wide range of automatic door systems including sliding doors, swing doors, folding doors, and revolving doors. Whether you need an automatic door for a retail entrance, commercial building, or healthcare setting, we can recommend the best solution to meet your needs.

How do automatic doors work?

Automatic doors typically use an electric motor mechanism that is fitted to door leaves.  The automatic door operator is activated using sensors, motion detectors, or access control systems.

When a person approaches, the sensor activates the mechanism that opens the door automatically, without the need to push, pull or touch the door, providing convenience, hygiene, and accessibility.

Are your automatic doors compliant with UK regulations?

All systems are installed to meet UK and European standards, including BS EN 16005 and the Equality Act. We ensure each project is safe, accessible, and tailored to the specific requirements of your building.

Can you retrofit an automatic door system to an existing entrance?

In many cases, yes. We can often upgrade manual doors with automatic operators, offering a cost-effective solution without needing a full replacement.

Adapting your existing manual doors to operate automatically is an economical solution to door automation where your business will benefit from improved comfort, hygiene and accessibility.

Safety Sensors

Do all automatic doors need safety sensors?

Yes definitely. Safety sensors are a crucial part of any automatic door installation for convenience and safety. They help the automatic door operate correctly, by detecting the right time activate, whilst ensuring safe operation.

For compliance to the European Standard BS EN 16005 to install power operated pedestrian doors, safety devices are compulsory where the safety concern can’t be either designed out in construction, or installed as a safety measure.

There are various types of safety sensor used in combination with automatic doors that can detect motion and the presence of objects or people.  Safety sensors ensure the safe operation of automatic doors by allowing them to recognise obstructions in their opening and closing zone, preventing accidents and injury.

Do automatic door sensors need regular service or maintenance?

Sensors are used in combination with automatic doors to detect presence and motion.  Under BS EN 16005 and Workplace Health, Safety & Welfare Regulations, automatic pedestrian door systems and their activation sensor and safety devices require at least one annual inspection.

High traffic areas within retail or healthcare settings require more frequent maintenance checks, often quarterly or biannually.

Weekly safety checks by the responsible building occupier are also required to help spot hazards like misalignment, debris, or sensor failure.

 

Service & Warranty

Is my Automatic Access automatic door installation guaranteed?

Our installations are guaranteed for a period of 12 months. This guarantee can be extended to 24 months if serviced by us 12 months after the initial installation.

A service and maintenance contract will ensure your automatic door is regularly checked in order to meet your legal obligations and prolong the longevity of your investment. Choose from a basic automatic door service plan that includes maintenance, services and safety check to comprehensive plans for peace of mind that any replacements parts and additional re-active call outs are covered.

Additional doors already installed at site can also be added to the service contract, if required.

When is my automatic door due a service visit?

Your automatic door should be checked and maintained by a qualified technician at least annually. The building occupier should also complete weekly safety checks of any automatic door equipment.

Automatic door service checks and maintenance should be detailed and recorded in a Log Book to comply with BS EN 16005 and Workplace Health, Safety & Welfare Regulations 1992.

If you are unsure when your automatic doors were last serviced, please get in touch with our service department who will be able to advise and arrange a safety check.

How often should I get my Automatic Doors serviced?

Automatic Access can advise on the frequency and program of maintenance required for your type of automatic door, ensuring you meet your responsibilities as the building occupier.

Your handover documents from the door installer or the manufacturer’s manual should also outline the frequency and program of maintenance required.

​It is recommended that automatic doors are serviced at least once a year to protect building users and ensure their safe and efficient operation. A weekly inspection by the building occupier is also necessary.

How should I record my Automatic door maintenance or repairs?

Each automatic door asset requires its own Log Book, which is usually provided by the manufacturer or installer, to record any checks, repairs and maintenance.  After each service, Automatic Access will provide you with a detailed automatic door maintenance checklist and report for your records.

Regular planned door servicing helps keep your business premises safe and compliant, protected in the event of breakdown, and your maintenance costs to a minimum.  ​

The law for servicing automatic door equipment will vary according to which country you are in, however within England, Wales and Scotland, like most machinery with moving parts, under workplace health & safety legislation, yes, this is a legal requirement.

Under Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), powered pedestrian doors must be operated and maintained to ensure they remain safe in use at all times.

This means that automatic doors need to be maintained in accordance with the guidance from the manufacturer, and this must occur at suitable intervals to monitor any wear and tear that may compromise safety.  All checks must be recorded in a maintenance log book that is kept up to date.

In addition, BS EN 16005:2023 applies to the installation and regular maintenance of automatic pedestrian doors and their sensor and safety devices to help prevent accident and injury.

Delivery & Installation

Will my automatic door installation disrupt my business?

We work carefully with you and to the highest health and safety standards to ensure we do not disrupt your day-to-day business, staff and customers, during our installation.

Our normal working hours are 8am to 4pm and our teams can also work earlier, before your premises opens, or after closure during the evening if required. Out-of-hours installations require a site/ store or security operative to also be present or available.

What are your automatic door order lead times?

For supply of automatic door operator only, our lead times are typically 2-4 weeks depending on the product type.

For custom fabrication and build of complete systems, our factory can achieve 4-6 weeks from drawing approval to installation and hand over.

How much does an automatic door installation cost?

Prices vary depending on the type, access system, and location. We offer free site surveys and quotations to provide an accurate cost tailored to your situation.

What sectors do you install automatic doors for?

We work with clients in retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, and other commercial sectors. Whether it’s a single entrance or a multi-site rollout, we deliver tailored solutions with minimal disruption to your business.

How quickly can you install or repair an automatic door?

We offer fast response times for emergency automatic door repairs and flexible scheduling for installations. In many cases, we can provide a next-day or same-week service depending on the scope of the project.

Repairs & Callouts

What should I do if my automatic door stops working?

Get in touch with us right away. Our skilled engineers offer fast, reliable repairs and carry parts for most major brands, often enabling us to fix issues on the first visit.

Any Automatic door repairs and maintenance must be conducted by a person qualified to the BS EN 16005 competency exam and recorded in a Log Book to prove the equipment is regularly checked and remains safe in use.

You don’t need a service and maintenance contract with us to access our emergency call out and repair service, although Automatic Access service customers benefit from preferential rates for any call outs and repairs.

All Automatic Access engineers are ADSA (Automatic Door Suppliers Association) trained and accredited to work on all door types including automatic doors and powered pedestrian entrance systems to ensure conformity to UK and European standards.

Can my automatic door be repaired out of hours?

We work carefully with you and to the highest health and safety standards to ensure we do not disrupt your day-to-day business, staff and customers, during our installation.

Our normal working hours are 8am to 4pm and our teams can also work earlier, before your premises opens, or after closure during the evening if required. Out-of-hours installations require a site/ store or security operative to also be present or available.

Do you offer regular maintenance contracts for automatic doors?

Yes, we offer tailored planned preventative maintenance contracts to ensure regulatory compliance of your automatic doors so they remain safe in use.

Regular checks of your automatic door systems reduces maintenance costs, the risk of unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your equipment.