Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Practice

When a force of 5 lbf is applied at the latch side of a door, the expected behavior is that the door must remain closed. This response is essential for maintaining security and safety within a facility.

The underlying principle here involves the design and functionality of door latches. A properly functioning latch is engineered to withstand a certain amount of force to prevent unauthorized access. The application of force at the latch side should ideally not overcome the resistance provided by the latch mechanism if the door is designed for security. Thus, the door's integrity is preserved, ensuring it stays closed under those conditions.

In many healthcare settings, doors are often subjected to various regulatory requirements regarding access control and security measures. Keeping the door closed under a specified force ensures compliance with safety protocols, which is especially critical in locations that manage sensitive areas.

In contrast, a door opening automatically or being pushable under the same conditions may indicate a malfunction or design flaw, compromising the door's intended security features. Therefore, the requirement for the door to remain closed is a critical aspect of facility management in healthcare to ensure both safety and security.