Doors in the healthcare sector must meet strict requirements. But as a healthcare institution, how do you know which door offers the necessary resistance in certain situations? Until recently, there were no clear guidelines for the Belgian market and there was an urgent need for a standardized approach.
Rethinking RC3 test method
Until recently, RC3 (Resistance Class 3) or even RC2 doors were prescribed in psychiatric wards. However, in some cases this certified door could not withstand patient aggression. A few months ago, a severe form of aggression at a mental health institution led to a door being forced open. This was a certified RC3 from Eribel equipped with a B&B A1 lock. This was the trigger for Eribel to immediately analyze the situation on site in collaboration with B&B LOCKS and the competent authorities to come to a better solution.
This investigation showed that the “burglary resistance” RC3 test method was not aligned properly with the real life situation in a mental health institution. The doors are in reality attacked with much more physical human power and aggression rather than a specific set of tools used during your average burglary attempt. It became obvious that the door had to be able to withstand far heavier dynamic shocks than was presumed. There was a need to improve resistance, both in terms of intensity and frequency.
New test method: RC3 + 50
On top of a manual burglary attack with a fixed toolset, the RC3 basic certificate today requires only 7 dynamic shocks (1 in each corner and 3 in the center of the door). This simulates a 100 kg person is running against the door at 5 km/h.
Competent authorities have now decided that a new RC3+50 test method should include 50 dynamic shocks with an energy of 200 kg at 10 km/h. We can assure you that the difference is huge! In addition, any play that arises due to deformation can be adjusted on site. These adjustments are necessary to guarantee short intervention times and increased durability of these high security doors.
The development of this standardized approach for doors in the healthcare sector is of great importance. This will enable door manufacturers to better respond to the needs of the sector and ensure that doors meet the right performance requirements. This, in turn, can contribute to a safer and better care environment for both patients and caregivers.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact B&B Locks.
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