Gilgen Door Systems has installed 45 automatic swing door operators at the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead – a specialist NHS hospital renowned for undertaking reconstructive surgery, burns care, and rehabilitation services, for people across the South of England.
Following a successful trial, the Gilgen FD20 Swing Door Operator was chosen to automate 35 double doors and 10 single doors in the hospital’s new theatre suite, and at other key locations. Six new theatres were opened by HRH The Princess Royal in 2013, and the operating suite now comprises 10 theatres. Activated by push pad, the Gilgen FD20 swing door operators help improve safety, and make access considerably easier for the theatre staff, easing the transport of patients, medical supplies, and heavy equipment.
Gilgen said: “The powerful Gilgen FD20 easily handles the door weights and pressures. It is certified for use on the hospital’s fire-rated timber doors. Safety has been further improved through the installation of infrared motion sensors on each doorset. To minimise any potential risk of impact with the door, sensors continuously monitor the surrounding area for obstacles or traffic, stopping and returning the door where any presence is detected.
To avoid downtime, Gilgen installed the equipment over five weekends, completing the work on budget a week ahead of schedule. The Gilgen FD20s have also been installed on doors to the refurbished children’s ward, eye department, and hospital restaurants.
