Complete Guide to Door Finger Protection

What is a door finger trapping risk?

A finger trapping injury can occur when fingers enter the gap between a door and its frame and the door then moves. The hinge side is particularly important because the gap changes rapidly as the door opens and closes.

Children, people with additional needs and anyone moving through busy doorways may be more exposed. Risk is influenced by the door, the environment, supervision, traffic levels and how people interact with the space.

What does door finger protection do?

A correctly selected and installed guard covers an accessible trapping gap while allowing the door to operate. Protection may be required on the front hinge side, rear hinge side or both, depending on the door and the risk assessment.

Choosing suitable protection

Start with risk and usage rather than price. High-frequency doors, demanding environments and locations serving vulnerable users generally need a more robust specification and stronger supporting evidence.

• Confirm which trapping gaps are accessible.
• Check the door type, opening angle and daily use.
• Review product dimensions, fixings and installation requirements.
• Check warranty, test evidence and fire-door information.
• Consider cleaning, inspection and replacement over the product life.

Inspecting existing guards

Look for splits, tears, distortion, loose fixings, sharp edges, detached sections or gaps that have become exposed. Operate the door fully and slowly while observing the guard. Any product that no longer remains secure and fit for purpose should be investigated promptly.

Installation matters

A good product can perform poorly when incorrectly positioned or fixed. Follow the current manufacturer instructions, use suitable fixings, check alignment throughout the full door movement and complete a final functional inspection.

Ongoing maintenance

Include guards within routine premises inspections. The most useful schedule is risk-based: busy or vulnerable-user environments should be checked more frequently than low-use locations.