Your 2025 Buyer's Guide: 5 Checks for Selecting a BEA Activation and Safety Sensor

Abstract

The selection and implementation of a BEA activation and safety sensor for automated pedestrian doors represent a significant consideration for architects, facility managers, and installation technicians. Proper sensor choice is not merely a matter of operational convenience; it is a fundamental component of public safety and regulatory adherence. This analysis examines the multifaceted process of choosing an appropriate sensor, with a specific focus on the European and Middle Eastern markets. It explores the governing principles of the EN 16005 standard, which dictates the safety requirements for power-operated doorsets. The discourse delves into the distinct operational modalities of various sensor technologies—including microwave, infrared, and laser—evaluating their suitability for different environments and door configurations. The paper argues that a discerning approach, which accounts for regulatory frameworks, technological capabilities, pedestrian traffic patterns, and long-term maintenance, is necessary for ensuring a door system is both efficient and, above all, safe for every user.

Key Takeaways

• Verify every BEA activation and safety sensor for full compliance with the EN 16005 standard.
• Select sensor technology—microwave, infrared, or laser—based on your specific environmental and traffic needs.
• Distinguish between the roles of activation sensors for opening and safety sensors for preventing closure.
• Analyze your door type and pedestrian flow to determine the optimal sensor configuration.
• Implement a rigorous installation and regular maintenance plan to ensure long-term reliability.
• Consider dual-technology sensors for a comprehensive activation and safety solution in one unit.
• Consult with a trusted supplier for expert guidance on choosing the right components.

Table of Contents

• Check 1: Navigating the Regulatory Labyrinth - EN 16005 and Regional Compliance
• Check 2: Matching Sensor Technology to Your Environment
• Check 3: Analyzing Pedestrian Flow and Door Type
• Check 4: Understanding Activation versus Safety Functions
• Check 5: Planning for Installation, Maintenance, and the Future
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusion

Check 1: Navigating the Regulatory Labyrinth - EN 16005 and Regional Compliance

The world of automatic doors is governed by a set of rules designed to protect people. When you are deciding on a BEA activation and safety sensor, your first and most foundational check is not about technology or price, but about compliance. Think of it as learning the rules of the road before you start driving. For Europe, that primary rulebook is the EN 16005 standard. Understanding its principles is not just a box-ticking exercise; it is a profound responsibility for anyone involved in the specification, installation, or maintenance of automatic doors.

What is EN 16005 and Why Does It Matter?

EN 16005, titled "Power operated pedestrian doorsets - Safety in use - Requirements and test methods," is the harmonized European standard that has been in effect since 2013. It provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring the safety of users interacting with automatic doors. Its creation was a response to a recognized need for a unified safety level across Europe, replacing a patchwork of national regulations. The standard applies to all new installations and can also be applied to the refurbishment of existing doors.

At its heart, EN 16005 is built upon a philosophy of risk assessment. It compels manufacturers, installers, and building owners to think proactively about potential hazards. What could go wrong? Could a person be struck by a moving door leaf? Could they become trapped? Could the door fail to open in an emergency? The standard methodically addresses these questions by outlining specific requirements for the door system as a whole, which naturally includes the sensors that act as its eyes and ears.

For your business, compliance is non-negotiable. It protects you from legal liability in the event of an accident. More profoundly, it demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of every person who passes through your doors—employees, customers, visitors, children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. A door that adheres to EN 16005 is a door that has been thoughtfully designed to be safe for everyone.

Key Safety Requirements of EN 16005 for Sensors

The standard places significant emphasis on the role of the BEA activation and safety sensor. It understands that the door operator itself is just the muscle; the sensors are the intelligence that guides the muscle's actions. Here are some of the core principles that sensors must uphold:

1. Elimination of Contact: The primary goal is to prevent the moving door leaf from ever making forceful contact with a person. Safety sensors are required to detect people or objects in the path of the door and either stop its movement or cause it to reverse. The size and shape of this detection area are carefully defined to cover all danger points.

2. Presence Detection: It is not enough to simply detect motion. A person might stop in the doorway to tie a shoelace, or a piece of luggage might be left in the path. The standard mandates the use of "presence sensors" that can detect a stationary person or object within the hazardous area. This is a shift from older systems that might only use motion sensors for activation and could close on a static obstruction. Active infrared technology is commonly used to achieve this.

3. Monitored Systems: What if a sensor fails? A failure could be anything from a coating of dirt on the lens to an internal electronic fault. If the door's control system is unaware of the failure, it might operate as if the sensor is clear, creating a dangerous situation. EN 16005 requires that safety sensors be "monitored." Before each closing cycle, the door controller sends a test signal to the sensor. If it does not receive the correct response, the door will go into a fail-safe mode, such as remaining open, until the issue is resolved. This self-checking mechanism is a cornerstone of modern automatic door safety.

4. Coverage of Danger Zones: The standard requires that all potential crushing, shearing, and impact points are protected. For a sliding door, this means the threshold area. For a swing door, it is far more complex, requiring protection for the leading edge of the door as it swings open and closed, as well as the "secondary closing edge" or hinge area, where a person could be trapped between the door and the frame. A properly selected BEA activation and safety sensor system will provide comprehensive coverage for these specific zones.

Regional Nuances in the Middle East

While EN 16005 is a European standard, its influence extends far beyond the EU's borders. In the Middle East, a region known for its rapid development and adoption of international best practices, European standards are widely regarded as a benchmark for quality and safety. Many new construction projects in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha will specify EN 16005 compliance in their tender documents.

However, it is also common for local authorities to have their own specific requirements. These might be part of a national building code or a set of regulations from the local Civil Defence authority, particularly concerning fire and emergency egress. For example, a local code might have specific stipulations about how doors on an escape route must behave during a fire alarm, such as automatically opening and staying open.

When operating in the Middle East, the best practice is to assume EN 16005 as your baseline and then verify any additional local requirements. A knowledgeable supplier can be invaluable here, as they will be familiar with the regulatory landscape in specific countries and can ensure that the BEA activation and safety sensor you choose meets all relevant standards, both European and local.

The Role of BEA in Ensuring Compliance

BEA, as a leading manufacturer, designs its sensors with these regulations at the forefront of their development process. Their product documentation will clearly state which standards a sensor is designed to meet, including its performance level (PL) and safety integrity level (SIL) under related machinery safety standards like ISO 13849-1. When you choose a BEA sensor, you are selecting a product from a company that has invested heavily in understanding and engineering for compliance. This simplifies your risk assessment process and gives you confidence that the components you are using are fit for the purpose of creating a safe and reliable automatic door system.

Check 2: Matching Sensor Technology to Your Environment

Once you have a firm grasp of the regulatory requirements, your next step is to enter the fascinating world of sensor technology. Not all sensors are created equal. Each type uses a different physical principle to detect people and objects, and each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right BEA activation and safety sensor is like choosing the right tool for a job. You would not use a hammer to turn a screw. Similarly, the technology you select must be matched to the specific demands of the installation environment. Let's break down the main technologies you will encounter.

The World of Active Infrared (AIR): Precision and Presence

Imagine you are setting up a series of invisible tripwires across a doorway. That, in essence, is how an Active Infrared (AIR) sensor works. The sensor unit contains one or more Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that constantly project beams of invisible infrared light downwards towards the floor. These beams reflect off the floor and are picked up by receivers, or phototransistors, back in the sensor unit. The sensor establishes this reflected signal as its "normal" state.

When a person or object enters the detection area, they interrupt these beams. The light now reflects off the person's shoe or a shopping cart at a different distance and angle. The receiver detects this change in the reflected signal and understands that there is a "presence" in the detection field.

Strengths:

• Presence Detection: This is the key advantage of AIR. Because it is constantly looking for a stable reflection from the floor, it can detect a stationary person or object indefinitely. This makes it ideal for the safety function, ensuring a door will not close on someone who has stopped in the threshold.
• Precise Detection Fields: The detection area of an AIR sensor can be very sharply defined. The beams create a curtain of light, and the sensor only triggers when something enters this curtain. This precision prevents the door from being held open by people or objects that are near the doorway but not actually in it.

Weaknesses:

• Environmental Sensitivity: The performance of an AIR sensor is dependent on the condition and color of the floor. A very dark, non-reflective floor (like a black rubber mat) can absorb too much of the infrared light, making it difficult for the sensor to get a good signal. Conversely, a highly polished, mirror-like floor can cause erratic reflections.
• Weather and Contaminants: Heavy rain, snow, or thick fog can interfere with the infrared beams. Likewise, dirt, dust, or condensation on the sensor's lens can block the signal and cause a fault.

The Power of Microwave Radar: Motion and Coverage

A microwave sensor operates on a completely different principle: the Doppler effect. Think of the sound of an ambulance siren changing pitch as it moves towards you and then away from you. The microwave sensor does the same thing, but with radio waves. It continuously emits a low-energy microwave field. When these waves hit a stationary object like a wall, they reflect back to the sensor at the same frequency.

However, when the waves hit a moving object—like a person walking towards the door—they reflect back at a slightly higher frequency. The sensor's internal circuitry detects this frequency shift and understands that there is motion in its detection zone.

Strengths:

• Large, Volumetric Coverage: Microwave sensors can create large, three-dimensional detection fields that can be adjusted in size and shape. This makes them excellent for activation, as they can detect people approaching from a wide range of angles.
• Robust Performance: Microwaves are largely unaffected by environmental conditions like temperature, dust, rain, or snow. They can also "see" through non-metallic materials like plastic, wood, or glass, which can be an advantage in certain applications.

Weaknesses:

• Motion-Only Detection: The fundamental limitation of a standard microwave sensor is that it only sees movement. If a person walks into the field and then stops, the Doppler shift ceases, and the person becomes invisible to the sensor. This is why microwave technology alone is not suitable for the safety function at the threshold.
• Potential for False Activations: Because the detection field can be large and can penetrate materials, a microwave sensor might be triggered by movement outside the intended area. For example, it might detect traffic in an adjacent corridor or even items moving on a shelf behind a glass partition, leading to unnecessary door openings. This requires careful adjustment during installation.

The Rise of Laser Technology: Safety at the Forefront

Laser-based sensors represent the cutting edge of automatic door safety. They operate using a principle called "time-of-flight." The sensor emits extremely short, precise pulses of laser light and measures the exact time it takes for the light to reflect off an object and return. Since the speed of light is constant, this time measurement can be used to calculate the precise distance to the object.

A single BEA activation and safety sensor of this type contains a rapidly rotating mirror or emitter that scans the area, taking thousands of individual distance measurements per second. This data is used to build a highly detailed, two-dimensional map of the floor area in front of the door. The installer can then program highly specific detection zones within this map.

Strengths:

• Unmatched Precision and Reliability: Laser sensors are incredibly precise. They can be programmed to ignore small objects or to create complex safety patterns, such as a curtain that protects the entire swing path of a swing door.
• Immunity to Environment: Unlike infrared, laser technology is virtually immune to the effects of floor color, reflections, direct sunlight, or weather conditions. This makes it exceptionally reliable in challenging environments.
• Enhanced Safety: Because it knows the exact location, size, and even direction of movement of an object, a laser sensor can provide a level of safety that is difficult to achieve with other technologies. It can, for example, ignore cross-traffic while still detecting someone turning to enter the doorway.

Weaknesses:

• Cost: The advanced technology in laser scanners generally makes them more expensive than microwave or infrared sensors. However, for high-stakes applications like hospitals, airports, or buildings with vulnerable users, the investment in enhanced safety is often justified.

The Hybrid Solution: Dual-Technology Sensors

So, microwave is great for activation but poor for safety. Infrared is great for safety but can be sensitive to the environment. What is the solution? You combine them. This is the logic behind dual-technology sensors, which have become the industry standard for high-quality installations.

A dual-technology unit, such as the BEA IXIO-DT1 activation and safety sensor, houses both a microwave radar module and an active infrared module in a single casing.

• The microwave field is typically used for activation. It projects a large field out from the door to detect approaching people and open the door efficiently.
• The active infrared curtains are focused on the threshold area. They provide the stationary presence detection required for the safety function, ensuring the door remains open as long as someone is in its path.

This approach gives you the best of both worlds: the wide, weather-resistant detection of microwave for opening the door, and the precise, presence-detecting capability of infrared for keeping it safely open. These integrated units simplify installation, reduce wiring, and are designed from the ground up to work together seamlessly to meet the stringent requirements of EN 16005.

Check 3: Analyzing Pedestrian Flow and Door Type

With a solid understanding of the rules and the tools, our third check moves into the practical application. The ideal BEA activation and safety sensor system is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It must be tailored to the unique characteristics of its location. Two of the most important factors to consider are the volume and type of pedestrian traffic, and the physical type of the automatic door itself. A thoughtful analysis of these elements will ensure the door is not only safe but also efficient and user-friendly.

High-Traffic vs. Low-Traffic Environments

Consider the difference between the main entrance to a major international airport and the door to a private office. Their needs are vastly different.

• High-Traffic Environments (Airports, Hospitals, Shopping Malls): In these settings, the priority is throughput and unwavering reliability. The activation sensor needs to detect a constant, often chaotic, flow of people with luggage, carts, or wheelchairs approaching from multiple directions. The detection field must be large enough to open the door in a timely manner, preventing bottlenecks. At the same time, the safety sensors are working overtime, constantly ensuring the threshold is clear as people pass through. Energy efficiency can also be a consideration. A well-tuned sensor will hold the door open for the minimum time necessary, reducing the loss of heated or cooled air. The sensor must be robust enough to handle tens of thousands of cycles per day without failure.

• Low-Traffic Environments (Offices, Residential Buildings, Stock Rooms): In these areas, the traffic is more predictable and less frequent. The activation field can be smaller and more focused to prevent the door from opening unnecessarily for people just passing by in a corridor. Energy savings become even more significant here, as each unwanted opening wastes conditioned air. The safety requirements are just as high, but the sensors will not be subjected to the same level of constant use. Here, a simpler, more cost-effective BEA activation and safety sensor might be appropriate, as long as it still meets all EN 16005 requirements.

When analyzing traffic, also consider the type of users. A healthcare facility with elderly patients or a school with young children requires a higher degree of safety. The sensors might be programmed with longer hold-open times, and the detection fields for safety will be made as comprehensive as possible.

Sliding Doors: The Classic Application

Sliding doors are the most common type of automatic door, and their sensor setup is relatively straightforward.

• Activation: Typically, a single dual-technology sensor is mounted on the centerline of the door, above the opening. Its microwave field is configured to cover the approach area on both the entry and exit sides.
• Safety: The same dual-technology sensor projects one or more curtains of active infrared light across the threshold. This provides the primary safety against the door closing on a person. For wider doors or higher-risk applications, EN 16005 might require additional "recessed" presence sensors. These are separate infrared sensors mounted inside the operator housing, angled to look down just in front of each moving door leaf. This ensures there are no unprotected zones, even when the doors are fully open.

The goal is to create a seamless blanket of detection that covers the approach for activation and the entire path of the door leaves for safety.

Swing Doors: The Complexity of the Swing Path

Swing doors present a much more complex safety challenge than sliding doors. The danger is not just at the threshold but throughout the entire arc of the door's movement. A person could be struck by the leading edge of the door as it opens or closes, or they could be trapped at the hinge area. EN 16005 has very specific requirements for protecting these areas.

• Activation: This can be achieved with a microwave sensor, a touchless switch, or a push pad. The choice depends on the desired functionality.
• Safety: This is where things get interesting. A single sensor mounted on the door header is often insufficient. To protect the entire swing path, a specialized BEA activation and safety sensor is typically mounted on the top corner of the door leaf itself. These advanced sensors, often using laser or focused infrared technology, are designed to look out and down, creating a safety field that travels with the door as it moves.
  • On the Push Side: The sensor detects any person or object in the path as the door swings closed, preventing impact.
  • On the Pull Side: The sensor can detect a person standing too close to the door as it swings open towards them, stopping its movement.
• Hinge Area Safety ("Secondary Closing Edge"): Protecting the area where the door closes against the frame is also critical. This is often achieved with a dedicated presence sensor mounted vertically near the hinge on the door frame or the door leaf. It prevents a person's hand or arm from being trapped in this "pinch point."

Selecting sensors for a swing door requires a careful geometric analysis of the opening, the door's swing arc, and potential user behavior.

Revolving Doors: A Unique Safety Challenge

Revolving doors are, in effect, a series of moving compartments. They present multiple potential hazards, including contact with the rotating wings and entrapment within a compartment or between a wing and the fixed drum wall. Consequently, they require a comprehensive suite of sensors.

A typical revolving door will have:

• Activation Sensors: Mounted above the entrance to start the door's rotation as a person approaches.
• Heel/Canopy Sensors: Active infrared sensors mounted in the ceiling of each compartment. Their job is to detect if someone is inside the compartment and ensure the door continues to rotate at a safe speed until they have exited. They prevent the door from stopping with a person trapped inside.
• Leading Edge Sensors: These can be contact-based (a rubber profile that deforms on contact) or non-contact (infrared or laser sensors mounted on the vertical edge of each door wing). They detect an object or a slow-moving person directly in the path of the rotating wing and stop the door before impact.
• Entrapment Sensors: Additional presence sensors may be required to detect a person or object trapped between the edge of the wing and the fixed part of the door frame (the mullion).

A BEA activation and safety sensor system for a revolving door is a complex, integrated network where each sensor has a specific and vital role in a multi-layered safety strategy.

Check 4: Understanding Activation versus Safety Functions

At a casual glance, it might seem like the sensors on an automatic door all do the same thing: they see you, and the door opens. However, from a technical and safety perspective, there is a fundamental and critical distinction between the activation function and the safety function. Understanding this division of labor is your fourth check, and it is essential for appreciating how a modern, compliant door system works. Think of it as the difference between a doorbell and a smoke detector. One is for convenience; the other is for protection.

The Activation Sensor: The "Open Sesame" Command

The sole purpose of the activation function is to tell the door operator to open. It is the initial trigger. The activation sensor is positioned and programmed to detect an approaching user who intends to pass through the doorway.

• How it Works: This function prioritizes efficiency and timely opening. It needs to detect people at a sufficient distance to open the door smoothly without forcing them to slow down or stop. This is why microwave radar is so well-suited for this role. Its ability to create a large, volumetric detection field that "sees" motion is perfect for picking up approaching traffic.
• The Goal: The primary goal is access and convenience. It ensures the door is open when it needs to be.
• Limitations: By itself, an activation sensor has no concept of what happens after the door is open. It does not know if a person has stopped in the doorway. Once the initial motion ceases, a simple activation sensor's job is done until it detects new motion.

In some simple, low-risk applications, a basic push button or a wall-mounted touchless switch might serve as the activation device. The principle remains the same: it is a deliberate signal given to initiate the opening cycle.

The Safety Sensor: The Guardian of the Threshold

The safety function, by contrast, is a purely protective role. Its job is not to open the door, but to prevent the door from closing when it should not. It is the guardian that stands watch over the hazardous areas of the door's path.

• How it Works: This function prioritizes unwavering presence detection. It must be able to see a person or object in the doorway, whether they are moving or completely stationary. This is the domain of active infrared and laser technologies. These sensors create a dense curtain or field of detection in the threshold and path of the door. As long as they detect an obstruction, they will continuously send a signal to the door controller to keep the door open or to reverse it if it has started to close.
• The Goal: The primary goal is to prevent impact, crushing, or shearing injuries. It is a non-negotiable safety mandate under standards like EN 16005.
• Necessity: Imagine a parent with a stroller pausing in a doorway, or a person in a wheelchair who moves more slowly. Without a reliable safety sensor, the door's timer would expire, and the door would begin to close, potentially causing an accident. The safety sensor overrides the timer, holding the door open for as long as the threshold is occupied.

The Integrated Approach: Why One Sensor Can Do Both

In the past, it was common to see two separate sensors installed above a door: a microwave unit for activation and a separate infrared unit for safety. This approach, while functional, meant more hardware, more wiring, and more complex installation.

The modern solution, and the one that truly defines an advanced BEA activation and safety sensor, is the integrated, dual-technology unit. A product like the versatile dual-technology BEA sensor elegantly combines both functions into a single, intelligent device.

Inside this one housing, you have two distinct systems working in concert:

1. A microwave radar module is programmed to create a large detection field extending out from the door. This is the activation zone. When it detects motion here, it sends the "open" command.
2. One or more rows of active infrared emitters and receivers are programmed to create a dense, precise curtain of presence detection directly in the door's threshold. This is the safety zone.

The sensor's internal logic is smart enough to manage both. It uses the radar to open the door and the infrared to keep it open. This integration also allows for more sophisticated interactions. For example, the sensor can distinguish between approaching traffic (which should trigger an opening) and departing traffic (which should not re-trigger the opening cycle), a feature known as "unidirectional detection," which can significantly improve energy efficiency.

The Concept of Monitoring

This is where the relationship between the sensor and the door controller becomes a true partnership. As we touched on in the discussion of EN 16005, safety sensors must be "monitored." This is a continuous background conversation happening between the sensor and the door's brain.

Before the door controller initiates a closing movement, it performs a quick health check on the safety sensor. It sends a test signal and expects a specific "I'm okay" response back.

• If it receives the correct response, it knows the safety sensor is working correctly and proceeds to close the door (assuming the sensor is not detecting a presence).
• If it does not receive the correct response—or receives no response at all—it assumes the sensor has failed. In this "fail-safe" condition, the controller will refuse to perform a normal closing operation. It will typically cause the door to open and remain open, or to close very slowly while emitting an audible alarm, until a technician can service the system.

This monitoring function is the ultimate safety net. It ensures that a hidden failure in the safety sensor does not lead to an unsafe door. When selecting a BEA activation and safety sensor, you must ensure it supports this monitoring function and is compatible with the monitoring protocol of your chosen door operator.

Check 5: Planning for Installation, Maintenance, and the Future

Your final check is about looking ahead. Selecting the perfect BEA activation and safety sensor is a significant achievement, but its long-term performance hinges on what happens next. Proper installation, diligent maintenance, and a forward-thinking mindset are what transform a good component into a reliable, decade-long safety solution. Neglecting this final stage is like buying a high-performance car and never changing the oil.

The Importance of Correct Installation and Mounting Height

The placement of a sensor is not arbitrary. It is a matter of geometry and physics. Even the most advanced sensor will fail to perform correctly if it is installed improperly.

• Mounting Height: Every sensor has an optimal mounting height range specified by the manufacturer. This height is critical because it determines the angle of the detection fields.
  • If mounted too low, the infrared safety curtains might not be wide enough to cover the entire threshold, leaving unprotected gaps at the sides. The microwave activation field might also be too short, forcing people to get uncomfortably close before the door opens.
  • If mounted too high, the infrared beams might become too diffuse and less reliable. The microwave field might overshoot the intended area, leading to false activations from traffic far away from the door.
• Angle and Positioning: The sensor must be mounted level and aimed correctly. A slight downward or upward tilt can dramatically alter the shape and position of the detection fields on the floor. For overhead sensors on sliding doors, it must be on the centerline of the opening. For sensors mounted on a swing door leaf, the position must be precise to ensure the safety pattern correctly covers the leading edge throughout its travel.

Installation should always be performed by a trained and qualified technician who understands these nuances. They will not just physically mount the sensor; they will perform a "walk test" from all possible angles of approach to verify that the activation and safety zones are positioned exactly where they need to be.

Programming and Sensitivity Adjustments

A modern BEA activation and safety sensor is a highly configurable device. It is not a simple on/off switch. Using a universal remote control or a dedicated programming tool, a technician can fine-tune dozens of parameters to optimize its performance for the specific site.

• Field Size and Shape: The microwave activation field can be narrowed to avoid a nearby wall or shortened to ignore cross-traffic in a corridor. The width of the infrared safety curtains can be adjusted to match the clear opening width of the doorway.
• Sensitivity: The microwave sensitivity can be increased to detect slower-moving traffic or decreased to make it less susceptible to interference from things like rain or vibration. The infrared presence detection timer—the length of time the sensor will hold the door open after an object becomes stationary—can be adjusted.
• Immunity Settings: Advanced sensors have built-in filters to reject interference from sources like fluorescent lighting, radio frequency interference (RFI), or vibrations from the door operator itself. These can be enabled and adjusted.
• Unidirectional Logic: As mentioned earlier, the sensor can be set to be "unidirectional," meaning it only triggers the door for approaching traffic. This is a powerful energy-saving feature for many applications.

This fine-tuning process is what tailors the sensor to its environment. It turns a generic product into a bespoke solution, maximizing both safety and efficiency.

A Proactive Maintenance Schedule

Automatic door sensors live in a challenging world. They are exposed to weather, dust, cleaning products, and the occasional bump from a cart. To ensure they continue to function as intended, a regular maintenance schedule is not just recommended; it is a requirement under EN 16005 for the building owner or manager.

A typical maintenance visit by a qualified technician should include:

1. Cleaning: The lenses and windows of the sensor must be gently cleaned with a soft, lint-free cloth. A layer of grime can blind the sensor.
2. Visual Inspection: Checking for any physical damage to the sensor housing or its wiring.
3. Functional Test (Walk Test): Systematically testing the activation and safety functions from all directions, at various speeds, to confirm the detection fields are correct and the door is behaving as expected. This includes testing the stationary presence detection by placing a test object (of a size specified by the standard) in the threshold and ensuring the door remains open.
4. Monitoring Check: Verifying that the door's fail-safe mode engages correctly if the sensor is disconnected or a fault is simulated.
5. Documentation: Recording the date of the inspection and any actions taken. This logbook is important evidence that you are fulfilling your responsibilities as the building operator.

A proactive maintenance plan, typically performed at least annually, is the best way to catch small problems before they become serious safety risks.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

When you choose a BEA activation and safety sensor and have it professionally installed, you are making an investment in the safety and accessibility of your building. To maximize the return on that investment, think about the long term.

• Adaptability: Choose a sensor that has the flexibility to be reprogrammed if the use of the area changes. A high-quality, programmable sensor can be adapted if traffic patterns shift or if the door's function is altered.
• Support: Partner with a reputable supplier and manufacturer. BEA provides extensive technical support, documentation, and training for its products. A good supplier, like DoorDynamic, will have the expertise to help you select the right product and provide support throughout its lifecycle.
• Quality: Investing in a high-quality, well-engineered sensor from a leading brand like BEA may have a slightly higher upfront cost, but it pays dividends in reliability, longevity, and peace of mind. A cheaper, lower-quality sensor may be prone to more frequent failures, leading to higher maintenance costs and potential downtime for your entrance.

By considering the entire lifecycle of the sensor—from selection and installation to maintenance and eventual replacement—you ensure that your automatic door remains a safe, welcoming, and efficient feature of your building for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main difference between a microwave and an infrared sensor?

The fundamental difference lies in what they detect. A microwave sensor detects motion using the Doppler effect, making it excellent for activating a door as someone approaches. An active infrared sensor, on the other hand, detects presence. It projects beams of light and looks for an object interrupting them, allowing it to see a person or object even if they are completely stationary. For this reason, microwave is used for activation, while infrared is essential for safety at the threshold.

How often should a BEA activation and safety sensor be serviced?

According to the EN 16005 standard, the entire automatic door system, including its sensors, must be inspected and maintained by a qualified professional at least once a year. For doors in high-traffic environments like hospitals or airports, more frequent checks (e.g., semi-annually or quarterly) are highly recommended to ensure continued safe and reliable operation.

Can I install a BEA sensor myself?

While it may be physically possible, it is strongly discouraged unless you are a trained and qualified automatic door technician. Installing, positioning, and programming a BEA activation and safety sensor correctly requires a deep understanding of the technology, the door operator, and the applicable safety standards like EN 16005. Incorrect installation can create significant safety hazards and may void warranties and insurance coverage.

Why does my automatic door sometimes try to close on me?

This is a classic sign that the safety sensor system is not functioning correctly. The cause could be a failed or dirty infrared sensor that is not detecting your presence, an incorrect setting, or a blind spot in the detection pattern due to improper installation. It is a serious safety issue that should be addressed immediately by a professional technician. A compliant and properly working system should hold the door open as long as you are in the threshold.

Are BEA sensors compatible with all automatic door brands?

BEA sensors are designed to be highly versatile and are compatible with the vast majority of automatic door operators on the market. They typically use standard relay outputs (N.O./N.C. contacts) that can be wired into any brand of door controller. The key is to ensure the sensor's monitoring function is compatible with the specific door operator's monitoring protocol. A knowledgeable supplier like DoorDynamic can confirm compatibility for your specific combination of equipment.

What does EN 16005 compliance mean for my business?

EN 16005 compliance means that your automatic doors have been installed and are maintained to a high, recognized European safety standard. For your business, this has two major benefits. First, it significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries to your staff and customers, protecting them from harm. Second, it demonstrates due diligence and protects your business from legal liability in the unfortunate event that an incident does occur. It is a fundamental part of responsible building management.

Conclusion

The journey of selecting the right BEA activation and safety sensor is a thoughtful process, one that balances technical specifics with a deep commitment to human safety. It begins with a firm grounding in the regulatory landscape, primarily the EN 16005 standard, which sets the benchmark for safe operation in Europe and influences best practices in the Middle East. From there, the path leads through a careful consideration of technology, matching the unique strengths of microwave, infrared, and laser systems to the demands of your environment. The analysis must then zoom in on the specific application, tailoring the sensor configuration to the door type and the flow of people it will serve.

A clear understanding of the distinct roles of activation and safety—the convenient welcome versus the vigilant guardian—is paramount. This understanding culminates in the appreciation of integrated, dual-technology sensors that perform both roles with intelligence and efficiency. Finally, the perspective must broaden to encompass the entire lifecycle of the system. A flawless selection can be undone by improper installation, just as a perfect installation can degrade without diligent maintenance. By embracing all five of these checks, you move beyond merely buying a component. You engage in a comprehensive safety strategy, ensuring that your automatic entrance is not just a passage, but a secure, reliable, and welcoming gateway for everyone.