Voluntary Standards Cover the Spectrum: from Telecommunications Enclosures to Door Closers

Door Closers
Commonly going unnoticed, a door closer is a mechanical device that closes a door automatically after being opened. It helps to ensure proper functioning of the door and protects users entering or exiting buildings. A recently published ANS from the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) provides guidelines for the proper installation of door closers.

ANSI/BHMA A156.4-2013, Door Controls - Closers, contains cycle, operational, closing force, and finish tests as criteria for conformance. The standard covers requirements for door closers that are surface mounted, concealed in the door, overhead concealed, and concealed in the floor, and also includes requirements for floor closer pivots.

BHMA, an ANSI member and accredited standards developer, is a trade association for North American manufacturers of commercial builders hardware. In addition to developing and updating safety standards for architectural hardware, BHMA advocates for industry before commerce, trade, and regulatory bodies; sponsors third-party certification of builders hardware products; and offers technical expertise before key building code, fire, and life safety groups.