Automatic Door Safety Inspection Checklist Dubai 2026 (EN 16005)

If you manage a mall, hotel, clinic or office tower, an automatic door safety inspection is one of the cheapest ways to prevent injuries, complaints and liability. Automatic doors in Dubai open and close thousands of times a day in heat, dust and humidity, and safety features drift out of adjustment long before the door looks faulty. This guide explains what EN 16005 covers and gives a checklist you can use across the UAE.

What Is EN 16005 and Why It Matters in Dubai

EN 16005 is the European standard for the safety in use of power-operated pedestrian doorsets. It addresses the risks of crushing, impact, shearing, trapping and drawing-in at automatic sliding, swing and folding doors, and sets requirements for the safety devices that protect people. Leading brands such as GEZE design their operators and sensors around this standard, and many UAE consultants and facility teams use it as the practical benchmark for new and existing doors.

Local authority and building requirements vary by project, so confirm what applies to your property with your consultant or the relevant authority. What does not change is the principle: an automatic door must detect people, stop or reverse safely, and be usable in an emergency.

Automatic Door Safety Inspection Checklist

1. Sensors and detection

• Activation sensors (radar or motion) open the door as people approach, with no dead spots.
• Safety sensors (presence or infrared curtains) stop or reopen the door when someone stands in the doorway.
• Lenses are clean, sensors are firmly mounted and detection zones have not been moved by cleaning or fit-out work.

See our guide on motion vs presence sensors for how each type works.

2. Closing behaviour

• Door reverses or stops when it meets an obstruction.
• Closing speed is smooth, with no slamming at the end of travel.
• No unusual noise from rollers or track; worn parts are a common cause. Read about roller and track wear.

3. Emergency opening and power failure

• Break-out or manual release works and is clearly marked.
• Door behaviour on power cut matches the design (battery backup or manual release). See power cut and manual release.
• Fire alarm integration releases the door as designed.

4. Mechanical and visual checks

• Glass panels, seals, guides and brush strips are intact; no cracks or chips.
• Floor guides are clear of sand and debris.
• Warning signage and manifestation markings on glass are visible.
• Mounting screws, belts and operator covers are secure.

5. Settings and records

• Opening width, hold-open time and speed match the site's requirements.
• Operator error codes are read and cleared.
• Every inspection is logged with date, findings and technician name.

How Often Should You Inspect?

Manufacturers and industry guidance commonly recommend a professional service at least once a year, and more often for high-traffic entrances such as hospitals, malls and airports. In Dubai, dust, coastal humidity and summer heat can shorten that interval. A quick weekly visual check by your own team (clean sensors, listen for noise, test obstruction reversal with a soft object) catches most problems early.

Red Flags: Act Immediately

• Door does not reopen when blocked.
• Door opens late or closes on people.
• Repeated error codes or restarts.
• Manual release is stiff or missing.

Take the door out of automatic mode and call a technician. Do not keep operating a door with a known safety fault.

Make Inspections Routine with an AMC

The easiest way to stay compliant is a scheduled maintenance plan. An AMC with clear SLA terms includes planned inspections, sensor testing, spare parts and fast call-outs, and gives you the inspection records auditors and insurers ask for. If you are comparing providers, use our guide to choosing an automatic door service company.

Book a Safety Inspection with Merac Dubai

Merac Dubai supplies, installs and services automatic sliding, swing and revolving doors across Dubai, Sharjah and the UAE, including GEZE and other leading brands, with AMC options for commercial buildings.

📞 Call or WhatsApp us to book an automatic door safety inspection or discuss an AMC for your property.