Category: General

Dortek’s Guide to Fire Door Safety

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Fire doors are one of the most critical elements of fire protection. They are used to provide compartmentation ā€“ in other words, containing fire and smoke for a period of time to allow people to be safely rescued and evacuated.

Fire doors are often the first line of defence in a fire and their correct specification, maintenance and management can be the difference between life and death for building occupants. Despite this, fire doors remain a significant area of neglect and are often the first thing to be downgraded in a specification or mismanaged throughout their service life.

A review undertaken by FDIS certificated fire door inspectors earlier this year revealed the extent of fire door failures being seen on site:

  • Over 61% of fire doors inspected had problems with fire or smoke seals
  • More than a third had incorrect signage
  • 230 fire doors inspected had gaps bigger than 3mm between door and frame
  • More than 20% had unsuitable hinges
  • Almost 1 in 6 had damage to the door leaf.

(Source: FDIS 32)

The most common identified cause of death from a fire incident is being overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes. Suffering from the effects of gas or smoke also accounted for one-fifth of all non-fatal casualties in 2013-14. (Source: Gov.uk) This reinforces the importance of properly specified, installed and maintained fire doors with intumescent seals that keep smoke from leaking around the edges of a fire door.

Collage of three door images.

Hereā€™s our checklist to help you specify the correct fire doors and keep them in tip top condition:

  • Always use a reputable and competent supplier ā€“ many people claim to make fire doors, but only a handful have a properly tested product which is proven to work in a fire.
  • Ask whether the product has been fire tested and demand to see the documentation that proves it (e.g. fire certificate or label).
  • Make sure test evidence is from a UKAS-accredited test centre
  • Specifying fire doors with intumescent seals is crucial to prevent smoke inhalation in the event of a fire.
  • Itā€™s not just the door itself that matters. The frame and ironmongery is just as important ā€“ they all work together. Only buy exact compatible hardware and components from the same reputable supplier, also making sure that the ironmongery also meets the relevant fire test standard as well
  • Correct installation is as important as buying the correct product ā€“ fire doors are a carefully engineered fire safety device which must be fitted correctly so make sure you use experienced installers from a reputable company.
  • Ask for the fire door to be installed and then certified using a 3rd-party approved certification programme, such as BM Trada
  • Fire doors should be checked and maintained regularly, to ensure that they still work and perform as intended
  • Make sure you use an experienced door company to manage the servicing and maintenance of your fire doors, using a 3rd-party approved certification programme, such as BM Trada
  • Only ever replace damaged components with like-for-like. A suitably trained individual should be responsible for this maintenance work.

For our full range of Fire doors and for additional information contact us or take a look at Fire Doors | Dortek

Transfer hatches/pass through hatches

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Pass through hatches also known as transfer hatches, play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless transfer of materials. Whether it’s ushering raw materials in, dispatching finished products, or facilitating the manufacturing process, these unassuming hatches are the unsung heroes of cleanroom efficiency.

The primary objective of pass throughs is to mitigate cross-contamination during material transfer, thus upholding the sanctity and cleanliness of controlled areas. Dortek, a leading provider of innovative solutions, offers a range of pass through hatches equipped with either electromagnetic or mechanically interlocked doors. These advanced door mechanisms serve a dual purpose: preventing depressurisation and minimising the risk of contamination.

What sets Dortek’s pass through hatches apart is their deliberate design. Unlike conventional sealed doors, these hatches allow a controlled flow of air from the clean side, typically maintained at a higher pressure. This constant influx of clean air effectively flushes the interior of the hatch. Importantly, the volume of air involved is so minuscule in comparison to the room’s airflows that it remains imperceptible, leaving room pressures unaffected.

Pass throughs silently ensure that materials move seamlessly, while cross-contamination remains a distant concern. Dortek’s innovative range of pass through hatches help improve the efficiency and reliability of cleanroom operations.

Key Features of Dortekā€™s Transfer/Pass Throughs Hatches:

  • You can either have our hatches bespoke or standard sized.
  • Can be manufactured using fire resistant materials for up to 60 minutes of fire resistance.
  • Can be lead lined to provide added security and fire protection as well as radiation safety.
  • Can be manufactured to fit bespoke sized trolleys or containers.

Dortek offer a wide range of standard sized, custom made and lead lined pass throughs. Please see our brochure for more detailsĀ or contact us at info@dortek.com.

 

Dortek to supply FRP doors to the only training institute for biopharmaceutical processing in North America.

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Dortek have been specified to supply and install our hygienic FRP doors to The Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing (JIB) facility as part of a refurbishment.

The Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing is a full-service development and training organization specializing in biopharmaceuticals and biologics.Ā They offer early phase pre-clinical process development, product development, analytical, quality control, stability and release testing, world-class industry training, and strong credential programs through Thomas Jefferson University.

Located in Spring House Innovation Park in Lower Gwynedd, Pennsylvania, the JIB gives scientists, engineers and technicians access to a state-of-the-art bioprocessing training facility where they can practice complex bioprocessing procedures using industry-grade equipment. The Institute has received a $2 million grant to add nearly 40,000 square feet of additional academic and training space.

JIB partners with the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) in Dublin, Ireland. JIB training courses use the internationally recognised NIBRT curriculum and are certified by NIBRT.

Dortek supplied our specialist FRP door systems to the facility when it first opened in 2019. The institute is designed to simulate a GMP manufacturing plant where biologics are made so it was crucial the doors met GMP standards. Dortek supplied FRP doors in Stainless Steel frames, cleanroom windows and pass-through hatches. Dortek fiberglass doors have an inorganic, wood free construction which makes them ideal for biopharmaceutical facilities.

A room with stainless steel tables and equipment.A room with white cabinets and white appliances.

 

 

Novosprint Mono High-Speed Door

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The Butzbach NOVOSPRINT Mono is a high-speed door with a sideways opening door leaf, specially designed for fast, unobstructed, and contactless traffic.

As it is a high-speed door with a single lateral opening, it offers many advantages compared to swing, stackable or sliding doors. It is the ideal solution for narrow passages or corridors, where there is limited space.

With a rebate profile depth of just 35 mm on the wall side, this installation variant makes almost the entire opening width available for use.

The side opening ensures no dirt gets from the ground onto workers or the goods being transported. Unlike vertically opening doors, dust or liquids canā€™t be pulled upwards with the closing edge before then falling or dripping down.

The NOVOSPRINT high speed door range is an investment that pays off, more efficiency, greater reliability and a long service life.

A blue Novosprint Mono high-speed door.

The Butzbach Novosprint Mono door product benefits:

ā€¢ “Disappearing leaf effect”: Ideal for corridors where a door shall be placed in the clear width, without space at the sides
ā€¢ Minimum space requirements: Only compact projecting parts on the closing side of the corridor
ā€¢ Advantage compared to hinged or sliding doors: No disturbing pivoting range or fixed leaf
ā€¢ Sideward opening: total height open immediately
ā€¢ Efficient protection against draught or heat loss
ā€¢ Access control possible with transponder
ā€¢ Full automatic function for pedestrian traffic
ā€¢ Very high opening speed ā€“ minimises the transfer of dust, draught and noise
ā€¢ Comprehensive safety relevant equipment
ā€¢ Optional hygiene version
ā€¢ *Springs with warranty 500000 openings: An investment which pays well
ā€¢ Ideal for confined installation situations and highly frequented routes

A yellow Novosprint Mono high-speed door.

The Essential Role of X-ray Doors in Modern Healthcare Facilities

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The world of healthcare has undergone rapid transformation in recent years, with technology and innovation at the forefront of these changes. One of the critical aspects of modern healthcare facilities is their ability to provide accurate and reliable diagnostic services. X-ray technology is an indispensable tool for this purpose and ensuring safety in these areas is of paramount importance. That’s where Dortek steps in with its cutting-edge X-ray doors.

In this blog post, we will discuss the vital role that X-ray doors play in healthcare facilities, the features that make them indispensable and why Dortek’s X-ray doors are the ideal choice for medical establishments.

The importance of X-ray doors in healthcare facilities

X-rays are a powerful tool for medical professionals, enabling them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. However, as beneficial as they are, X-rays also emit ionising radiation that can pose a risk to human health if not adequately shielded. Consequently, it is essential to have proper protection in place for both patients and staff, that’s where X-ray doors come into play.

These specially designed doors offer a protective barrier against ionising radiation, ensuring that exposure levels remain within the acceptable limits outlined by the relevant regulatory authorities. By investing in high-quality X-ray doors, healthcare facilities can maintain a safe environment while providing top-notch diagnostic services.

An X-ray door in an operating theatre.

Key features of Dortek’s X-ray doors

Our X-ray doors boast several critical features that make them the top choice for healthcare facilities:

  1. Lead-lined protection: Dortek’s X-ray doors are equipped with lead lining, which effectively shields against radiation leakage, ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare professionals.
  2. Seamless, hygienic design: Our doors are designed with seamless edges and a smooth surface, minimising the risk of bacteria and infection spread. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them perfect for the stringent hygienic requirements of healthcare settings.
  3. Customisable options: Dortek understands that each healthcare facility has unique requirements. That’s why we offer customisable X-ray doors, allowing clients to choose from a variety of sizes, finishes and protection levels.
  4. Durability and longevity: The doors are manufactured using high-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand frequent use in busy healthcare environments without compromising their protective properties.
  5. Expert installation and support: Dortek’s team of professionals are well-versed in installing and maintaining X-ray doors, ensuring that they are correctly fitted and functioning at optimal levels.

Blue hinged X-ray theatre doors.

Why choose Dortek for your X-ray door needs?

With over 50 years of experience in the industry, Dortek has established itself as a leading provider of hygienic door solutions for controlled environments. Our X-ray doors are not only designed to meet the highest safety standards but also built to last, making them a smart investment for any facility.

Additionally, our team of experts are committed to providing exceptional customer service, from consultation and installation to ongoing support. When you choose Dortek, you can trust that you are partnering with a company dedicated to your facility’s safety and success.

Please contact our team today on +44 (0)1482 226848 for more information or send us an enquiry via our contact us page.

A blue X-ray door.

Doors for ICUs

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ICU door in a hospital environment.

What is an ICU?

Intensive care units (ICUs) provide around-the-clock care for people who are critically ill. Patients in ICU units are severely ill and require much more hands on care than in normal wards which makes them more susceptible to HAIā€™s. This is why the design of ICU facilities has become an essential part of preventing HAIā€™s and improving both patient safety and infection control.

ICU doors need to meet strict requirements in ICUs as theyā€™re in such a critical environment. ICU doors can be a major source of contamination due to the fact they are the piece of furniture which is touched the most by patients and staff. This is why itā€™s critical that the correct doors are specified for ICU facilities.

 

Weā€™re experts at providing specialist doors for ICUs

In hospital environments, safe and efficient patient care requires the versatility, durability and safety features of Dortek ICU doors.

Dortek doors have a hygienic flush surface which is easy to keep clean. Our large glass door blades are strong and durable and help to maximise vision and light, even when the doors are shut. Our glass doors can also be provided with x-ray rated glass, blinds or smart glass for patient privacy.

Doors can be automated to provide hands-free entry and further reduce the risk of infection. Dortek uses an intelligent automation which is key for user safety. Our door automations react to the smallest obstruction and photo sensors stop the door from closing onto passing traffic.Ā We also provide a range of access control systems, locking andĀ interface with BMS (Building Management Systems) for extra security.

Our doors are designed for intensive care units, but theyā€™re also ideal for laboratories, surgical suites, waiting areas and diagnostic imaging areas. We have an extensive range of case studies from across the globe where we have fitted & supplied our specialist healthcare doors. You can find them here.

 

Hermetically Sealing ICU Doors

Dortekā€™s hermetically sealing sliding glass doors are designed specifically to help cut the spread of airborne infection.

The door has a unique patented track system so it seals perfectly against the floor and frame. Ā The efficiency of the seal has been officially tested and results show it to be over 99% effective thus helping to reduce air handling costs, the incidence of wound infections and cross contamination.

Guiding and sealing cams are fitted outside the clear opening eliminating the requirements for a floor track, allowing free unrestricted access for wheeled traffic. This is enables trouble free access for beds and other medical equipment required in intensive care units.

 

About Dortek – A specialist door solutions company with over 50 yearsā€™ experience

For over 50 years, Dortek has been working with leading pharmaceutical, health, food, retail and industrial companies to provide them with bespoke access solutions for demanding environments. The dedication and expertise of our team make us global leaders in cutting-edge door solutions.

Weā€™re committed to providing our clients with the most knowledgeable, passionate and experienced team of professionals in our industry. We offer a level of service that is unparalleled within our field, and it’s what has earned us our reputation as one of the best.

Looking to start your buying journey? Get in touch with us at info@dortek.com or your local Dortek office – www.dortek.com/contact-us/

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Collage of ICU doors.

Doors for Life Science Facilities

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In life science facilities, doors play an important role in ensuring the safety and security of the people working within the facility and the research itself.

Choosing the correct door system is a critical part of the design within these facilities, as compliance with standards, ease of traffic movement, hygiene, fire regulations and balance of air movement will dictate the types of door being used or specified. In addition, doors must be seamless, waterproof, resistant to cleaning regimes and free of voids and organic material such as timber where bacteria could multiply.

The following are some of the key reasons to use specialist door types like hygienic GRP/FRP in research and life science facilities;

  • Doors should have a smooth, seamless hygienic construction, and must be designed to be easy to clean and keep clean.
  • The door and frame should be completely void free ā€“ there should be nowhere that moisture and bacteria can gather undetected.
  • Doors should be resistant to the commonly used cleaning and fumigation agents used in research facilities.
  • Doors should remain dimensionally-stable. Unlike timber-cored products, a GRP/FRP door leaf will not bow, warp, crack or deflect whatever the temperature or humidity.
  • Ledges should be minimised (windows should be frameless and completely ļ¬‚ush to both sides of the door).
  • Doors should be lightweight, yet very strong. They should be easy to operate by facility users. They should have solid, yet durable finishes to prevent the formation of chips where micro-organisms can find egress.
  • Fire doors should be third party fire certiļ¬cated to the appropriate UL, BS, EN, China, Singapore, Australia, and NZ standards.
  • Doors have the ability to be equipped with a range of access control systems and interlocking to prevent unauthorized entry.
  • Doors should have a self-closing system and, where required, air locking mechanisms to provide a tight seal and prevent the spread of hazardous fumes or materials.
  • Doors should be available with lead lining for radiation control.

By choosing the right doors for their life science facilities, facility and building owners can ensure the safety, security, and integrity of their research. Dortek have supplied our specialist doors to 14 of the top named research universities in the world.

  1. University of Oxford, UK
  2. Stanford University, US
  3. University of Cambridge, UK
  4. University College London, UK
  5. University of Pennsylvania, US
  6. Kingā€™s College London, UK
  7. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
  8. National University of Singapore
  9. Hong Kong University of Science and technology
  10. University of Technology, Sydney
  11. Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel
  12. Macquarie University, Australia
  13. RMIT, Australia
  14. London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK.

Dortekā€™s Waterproof Doors

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Dortek is a leading provider of hygienic doors, including waterproof doors. In this blog, we will explore why Dortek waterproof doors are specified by our clients and their benefits.

The benefits of Dortek waterproof doors

For wet or moisture-prone areas the design of a building becomes increasingly complex, with buildings needing to withstand both warm, humid conditions internally but also cold external conditions throughout the winter. Doors in these areas will need to be versatile in order to withstand severe temperature variations, damp conditions and the frequent use of chlorine/cleaning chemicals.

Choosing the correct waterproof doors is essential to maintaining good hygienic and longevity. In industries such as leisure, healthcare, food and pharmaceuticals, maintaining hygiene and cleanliness is of utmost importance. Waterproof doors are designed to resist moisture and prevent bacterial growth, making them an ideal solution for environments that require high levels of cleanliness.

Waterproof doors are designed to withstand exposure to water and moisture, making them more durable than traditional doors. They are less likely to warp, rot, or decay and they can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from extreme heat to extreme cold.

 

Dortekā€™s Waterproof Doors - GRP vs Timber.

The results of specifying the wrong door

Timber doors have an organic core with natural seams and crevices which makes them impossible to keep clean. These doors also soak up any moisture which will cause them to swell, warp, rot and decay. The door also knocks, chips and splinters easily, which in turn creates perfect breeding grounds for bacteria to grow.

Rotting timber doors.

About Dortek GRP Doors

GRP is renowned for being an extremely durable, flexible and waterproof material. AsĀ one of the worldā€™s leading manufacturers of specialist GRP door solutions, weā€™ve developed a comprehensive range of hard wearing, GRP door systems specifically for a range of sports and leisure applications.

Key benefits:

  • Completely seamless surface ā€“ free from voids and ledges
  • Developed to the highest hygiene standards ā€“ does not harbour bacteria or moisture
  • Easy to clean and disinfect
  • Fire, water, chemical and chlorine proof
  • Extremely strong, stable and lightweight
  • High durability and performance
  • Will not rot, rust, warp, crack or corrode
  • Aesthetically pleasing, permanent built in colour
  • 25+ year product life
  • Naturally environmentally friendly ā€“ long life expectancy.

For more information please contact us by email at info@dortek.com.

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ECOSPRINT – The Ultimate Energy Saving Solution

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The ECOSPRINT Synchro is the double-leaf, synchronous and side-opening fast action door. With spring force, both door leaves are simultaneously raised in seconds and rolled up in a compact upright profile ā€“ ideal for fast logistics processes, forklift traffic and air-conditioning locks.

The classic ButzbachĀ high-speed door that rolls the door skins of both door halves to the side in a fraction of a second. The ECOSPRINT has an opening speed of up to 3 m/s. The entire passage height is immediately available. This principle is superior to conventional doors in all aspects: it offers greater flexibility for adapting to your requirements, protection against collision damage, maximum reliability and economic efficiencyĀ in the long term.

The ECOSPRINT can be ordered up to a size of 3500 mm x 3500 mm. The fast action door is also available in a wide range of colours. The Anti-crash protection prevents damage to the door and the horizontal opening & saves space. There is also less heat loss due to the fast-closing speed.

The Ecosprint benefit’s
  • Separate individual areas from each other
  • Save energy and space
  • High closing speed reduces draughts and heat exchange
  • Create a safe process for people and goods flow
  • The full clearance height is immediately available
  • Collision damage is minimised
  • 1000,000 Opening cycles.

ECOSPRINTĀ® Syncro – The classic Butzbach high-speed door that rolls the door skins of both door halves to the side in a fraction of a second. The entire passage height is immediately available.

Ecosprint-fast-acting-door

ECOSPRINTĀ® Mono – The space and time saving solution for unhindered and contactless pedestrian traffic. As a single-sided rolling high-speed door, the ECOSPRINT Mono was specially developed for narrow passages.

A red rapid action door.

View the Ecosprint data sheet here Datasheet Ecosprint for more information or to submit an enquiry please contact us.

Dortek Are on NBS Source

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Did you know that Dortek are on NBS Source? Check out our page here.

What is NBS Source?

NBS Source is a cloud-based platform for construction product information.

Bringing together NBS BIM Library, NBS Plus and Product Selector, NBS Source is a brand new tool that creates a single source for product information.

How it works

  1. Find the products/manufacturers that are right for your project using NBSā€™ detailed search bar.

 

  1. Assess and select products using the information that the manufacturer has shared.

 

  1. Add products straight to your project specification and 3D models with NBS Chorus and Autodesk Revit integrations.

 

Find

For buyers, it provides a means to gather accurate product details before making purchase decisions; for manufacturers, it allows them to present detailed data about their products in an easily accessible format. NBS Source features over 33,000 products from over 1,100 manufacturers, itā€™s the perfect hub to help you make decisions in one place.

Select

All of theĀ product data in NBS Source is free to useĀ and adheres to NBS standards, with consistent properties and values, performance criteria and certification. OurĀ new traffic light alert systemĀ will inform you how recently a manufacturer has checked and verified their products to confirm their accuracy, meaning you can specify with confidence.

Specify

NBS SourceĀ connects directly with NBS Chorus, our cloud-based specification platform, and design tools including Autodesk Revit.Ā  Meaning you can find and specify productsĀ at every stage of your project. Saving you time trawling through the web or print catalogues for the latest product information.

 

Weā€™re constantly updating our page with new products, make sure you check back regularly for new content.

For more information please contact us by email at info@dortek.com.

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