Designing Safer Spaces: Integrating Finger Guards Into Building Plans

05 Nov Designing Safer Spaces: Integrating Finger Guards Into Building Plans

There are lots of boxes that need to be ticked to ensure a UK building meets the necessary standards. Whether designing a new home, public space or commercial premises, safety remains a vital consideration. A solid construction and a good design after all have the power to protect the health and wellbeing of the people within, preventing accidents, injuries and even fatalities.

Upholding the highest standards of safety isn’t just a moral obligation but a legal one, with the UK’s building regulations and safety laws paramount in every design as well as the key to providing a secure, healthy and comfortable space where occupants can thrive.

Here we take a closer look at the safety considerations of various building types, your legal duties, and how seemingly small additions like finger guards can make all the difference!

A word about UK building regulations

Let’s start with legislation that is integral to the design and construction of all UK building types, including homes, public spaces and workplaces.

The Building Regulations 2010 are vital reading for anyone constructing or altering a building in the UK. We’ll let Ashored explain what every building needs to comply with these regulations and who’s responsible:

“To comply with the Regulations, anyone carrying out building work must get approval for the work. Approval will only be granted if the building work meets technical requirements relating to matters such as structural stability, fire safety, ventilation, sanitation, drainage and energy efficiency… In general, builders and other tradespeople are responsible for making sure that any building work they carry out complies with the Regulations.”

Promoting safer design in homes

Safety in residential design is particularly important. Designing for safety can minimise risk dramatically, especially when it comes to the everyday hazards that put occupants and visitors in harm’s way.

There are several pieces of health and safety legislation that provide guidelines for safety conscious design in the modern day home. The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2022 for example states that there must be at least one smoke alarm fitted on each storey of a home and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room that houses a fixed combustion appliance, such as a wood burning stove or gas boiler.

Legislation also governs how stairs are designed, what electrical and gas safety checks need to be completed, and the correct use of fire doors in flats and multi-storey properties.

Safety conscious design in schools

Schools are another setting that require the utmost attention during the design process. Thankfully, the Department for Education offers baseline designs for primary and secondary schools.

These designs put safety first, with safe evacuation routes, secure boundaries, anti-slip flooring, and alarm systems all featuring. Designing for better mental wellbeing is a growing part of school design guidance too, ensuring a thoughtful step towards safer, calmer spaces for staff and students alike.

Designing safer workplaces and public spaces

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 set the standard for safety in offices and commercial buildings. With the focus on emergency exits, lighting and ventilation, ergonomic layouts and accessibility, the right design is a matter of compliance and safer access for all who use the building.

If this space is further shared with the public, there are yet more considerations, especially when remaining compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This sets the fire safety standard for all non-domestic buildings.

A small change that makes a positive difference

While the legislation that governs design safety in homes, schools and offices covers the bigger dilemmas, looking to individual risks and the painful injuries they can cause will ensure all bases are covered.

The integration of finger guards may not be compulsory but it makes a significantly positive difference in the design of homes, public spaces and commercial buildings. These devices cover the gap between the door and its frame, stopping wandering fingers from getting caught where they shouldn’t.

In homes and schools, finger guard installation is invaluable for protecting the most vulnerable. While fitting hinge protectors in offices and public buildings can help meet health and safety standards by reducing the risk of accidents for all.

Including finger guards in your building shows a commitment to safety, accessibility and thoughtful design, creating environments that are not only functional but safe and welcoming for everyone. Browse our finger guards today by viewing our latest brochure.