I am writing to enquire as to the best solution for door closers in Almshouses where traditional door closers are proving too heavy for some of our residents (some elderly/infirm/vulnerable adults). We are considering free swinging doors attached to our alarm system but would like further information/quotes and also to discuss the merits of sprung hinges/riser hinges.

Any recommendations?

In addition to free swing door closers have you considered cam action door closers, because improved accessibility in and around a building is becoming an increasing requirement in many environments. In some building fire doors can become a real obstacle to overcome for older or disabled persons and cam action door closer is a response to this need.

The Cam action, in fact, is extremely efficient, the initial opening force decreases very rapidly as the door opens allowing, in particular, children and the elderly to overcome the closing power without any problem.

The following document “Meeting the requirements of the DDA & Fire regulations” list many options for selecting door closers and may help you with your problems. http://productsearch.bdonline.co.uk/Which%20Door%20Control-file022424.pdf

Sprung hinges/riser hinges are not suitable for fire doors and for quotes you should contact Safelincs.