Dorguard in high Rise flats

[Guest Matt]

Is the use of a Dorgard door release/retainer in a high-rise block of flats legally prohibited, or is it merely a recommendation? If it is legally prohibited, in what regulation? 

[Mike North]

Dorgarda are not illegal, however some property owners/ landlords prohibit there use

[AnthonyB]

On 27/02/2025 at 11:54, Guest Matt said:

Is the use of a Dorgard door release/retainer in a high-rise block of flats legally prohibited, or is it merely a recommendation? If it is legally prohibited, in what regulation? 

For which doors? There are limits on the use of indirect hold open devices depending on building use & layout and which doors are to be held detailed in BS7273-4 which whilst not law would be used as a benchmark in any legal action - use outside of this would need justification as to how it still afforded suitable safety

[alonso]

Why are dorguards not suitable in some situations?

[AnthonyB]

You would need to refer to BS7273-4 but they don't have the required failsafe's of a Category A/Critical rated hold open as if there are faults on the fire alarm they won't release and are only rated to Category B/Standard actuation at best, Category C/Indirect at worst, meaning critical locations (such as doors onto stairways) would be vulnerable.

[alonso]

Great answer thanks