From hinge to handle: Comprehensive finger protection strategies

04 Mar From hinge to handle: Comprehensive finger protection strategies

Upholding internal door safety is a household task that is all too often overlooked. Doors are after all far from the innocent components they appear to be, with a badly maintained door capable of inflicting physical damage, including the most devastating finger and hand injuries.

More than 30,000 children under the age of 15 visit hospitals in the UK with finger or thumb injuries caused by doors and door frames every year according to this research. The same report found that over 1,500 of those admitted required some form of surgery.

Thankfully, there are several finger protection strategies that can be called on at home and elsewhere to keep those digits protected. Here we take you from hinge to handle to reveal the most effective…

The hinges

As the components connecting the door to the frame, hinges are pretty important. They are also one of the most used parts of the door, and subject to intense wear and tear as a result. Cracks and dents are common tell-tale signs that your door hinges need vital help, and even replacement. We’ll let OneMonroe explain more:

“If you notice cracks or dents in any of your door hinges, you should typically replace them. Door hinges are available in different materials, some of which are stronger than others. When made of weak materials, they may buckle under the weight of the door. This can result in the formation of cracks or dents that jeopardize their structural integrity.”

Cracks, dents, sagging, corrosion, loose parts and enlarged hinge gaps can all be prevented with regular maintenance, and it’s a crucial finger protection strategy too. Lubricate your hinges to ensure smooth operation and longevity, tighten hinge screws periodically, and act fast if you spot any signs that replacement is required.

The hinge gap

The gap is just as dangerous as those hinges without the necessary interventions. Luckily, you don’t have to wander too far to discover a protection must-have that keeps fingers and hands out of the danger zone.

Our finger guards prevent entrapment especially in high traffic areas. Despite being the simplest solutions, many don’t install them in their buildings, putting the people within at risk of serious injury. It’s not just internal doors that our finger guards can be applied to, the safety of patio and bi-fold doors can be upheld with our premium quality pinch protectors.

Explore our full range of finger protection products here to find the right device for your door type.

The latch

The latch or locking mechanism can also present a pinch risk, especially when a misaligned latch engages with its strike plate. Prevent finger entrapment by adjusting the latch and strike plates to keep the alignment just as it should be. The keys of lockable internal doors should also be kept well out of reach of small children to put safety first.

The panels

Whether your internal doors are solid or hollow core, they need maintenance to prevent wear, cracks and splintering as well as associated injuries and snagging. Repair damage immediately and touch up paint work for a safe, smooth finish.

The handle

Loose handles can be dangerous, causing slipping, snagging and even injury. Tighten loose handles and latches, lubricating the mechanism yearly to prevent jamming and sticking. WD-40, graphite powder, silicone lubricants or PTFE-based dry lubricants work best, ensuring smooth operation, optimum safety and rust removal that guarantees a long, long life and the highest standard of safety.