What Do I Need to Automate a Single-Occupant Restroom Door?

Automatic doors significantly improve access for people with disabilities or who need some extra assistance, such as mothers with small children. The necessity to automate restrooms to provide accessibility is apparent and the number of installations of automatic operators on restroom doors is one of the fastest growing segments of our industry.

New technologies, specifically designed to serve the requirements of automating washroom doors, are replacing the old practice of using the same components for restrooms as are used for entrance/egress applications.

Depending on the specific needs of your restroom application, you may require a different combination of products. For example, some restrooms might require a "push for assistance" switch, while others would not.

Therefore, what components are required to properly automate a restroom door?

Washroom Control Relay

The washroom control relay is the interface between the actuating switches, the electric strike, the door operator, and signage.

CX-33 Advanced Logic Control is Recommended: CX-33 is a new product, designed specifically for single occupant washroom applications. It features a dedicated output for illuminated signage, and 13 easy-to-program operating modes. Click here to learn more about CX-33.

EMF-2 Multi-Function Relay is Recommended: This multi-function relay is used as the door operator controller in applications with two doors entering the restroom, when the "Assistance Required" switch and indicator are needed, or when an automatic 15 minute time-out safety feature is needed to unlock the door.

It features a dedicated 12/5V LED output for an illuminated "Occupied" sign, a 3-mode selector switch, and 5 adjustable timers. Click here to learn more about EMF-2.

Pushbutton Switches

Pushbutton switches are used within the restroom to activate the door-locking function, or as the "Assistance Required" activator.

CM-400 Series Mushroom Pushbuttons are Recommended: CM-400 series are versatile mushroom pushbuttons with stainless steel faceplates for durability. They are available in a variety of button sizes and colours, activations types, and contact options. Click here to learn about CM-400 series.

• CM-400/8 is the recommended "Push-to-lock" switch.
• CM-400/12 is the recommended switch to activate an "Assistance Required" signal appliance (visual or auditory). It is wired directly to the EMF-2 which in turn unlocks the door, can optionally open it, and energizes the "Assistance Required" output relay.

Push Plate Switches

Push plate switches are used to open the restroom door, from inside and/or outside.

CM Series Round Push Plate Switches are Recommended: CM-40, CM-41, and CM-60 series round push plate switches are reliable, ADA-compliant switches with stainless steel faceplates. They require minimal actuation force, and are available in a large variety of graphics. Click here to learn about CM-40, CM-41, and CM-60 series.

CM-45GRSE1 Illuminated Push Plate and Sign is Recommended: CM-45GRSE1 illuminated push plate and sign is designed specifically for restroom applications. The colour of the illumination changes based on the door status (with options for green/red or blue/red illumination). The sign indicates which colour signifies occupancy and which signifies availability (or if used inside the washroom - Locked or Unlocked). Click here to learn more about illuminating CM-45 switches.

Electric Strikes 

12VDC and 24VDC electric strikes electrically lock the restroom door.

CX-EU2015 and CX-EU2018 are Recommended: These electric strike models are BHMA Grade 2, reversible for RH/LH doors, and rated for continuous DC operation. CX-EU2015 operates at 12V; CX-EU2018 operates at 24V. Click here to learn more about CX-EU electric strikes.

LED Annunciator

LED Annunciator offers illuminated messages to indicate when the washroom is occupied.

CM-AF500 Single Gang LED Annunciator is Recommended: CM-AF500 provides text that is invisible when not illuminated and highly visible when activated. The product features 4 text insert labels (English, French, and bilingual), super bright LEDs, and a heavy-duty stainless steel faceplate. Click here to learn more about CM-AF500 series.

Entrex Offers Restroom Control Kits

Entrex offers CX-WC restroom control kits from Camden Door Controls. These packages were made specifically for controlling automatic doors in washroom applications. Different packages provide different sets of components, depending on the needs of the application at hand. See our CX-WC restroom control kits options.

>> Entrex has the products you need for your next automatic door installation project, anywhere in Canada. Contact us today for assistance or to order product.

Related Posts:
CM-AF500 Series LED Annunciator for Washroom Applications
A Practical Guide: Code Compliant Restroom Applications
CX-33 Advanced Logic Relay

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