What Is AAADM Certification and Why Is It Important?

AAADM certification is a credential given to technicians by the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM). It signifies the person holding it has a thorough understanding of the safety and performance requirements for power-operated doorways, as established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Because automatic doors play such an important role in modern buildings, hiring a AAADM certified technician is the best way to ensure your doors operate reliably, within the guidelines laid down by ANSI and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For business owners and property managers committed to keeping their building accessible, this blog will explain what AAADM certification is, what it requires, and how you benefit from it.

Why Is AAADM Certification Important?

The AAADM was founded in 1994 not only to promote the interests of the automatic door industry, but to support the safe use of automatic doors. To that end, they’ve organized a series of programs designed to advance the skills, training, and professionalism of technicians and service providers: the Certified Inspector Training Program and Revolving Door Inspector Training Program.

Attendees receive practical instruction from a select group of experts with in-depth knowledge on the components, operation, and maintenance of automatic doors. While simple to use, automatic doors are complex devices that require expert diagnostics and repair. Their mechanical systems are required to process and respond to a variety of sensor data designed to track motion and obstructions. What’s more, their opening and closing speeds, as well as their hold times, are controlled by an array of sophisticated circuitry.

Without proven experience, attempting to adjust such complicated devices can lead to problems. AAADM certification was created to assure building owners and property managers that their doors received the best possible care from technicians who understand how their doors operate down to the smallest detail. Choosing an AAADM technician not only shows you’re committed to safety and accessibility, it also helps you save on costs. 

Besides troubleshooting doors, an AAADM certified technician can proactively detect and resolve problems before they escalate into costly repairs. It’s why the AAADM recommends owners schedule an inspection at least once a year, to make sure their doors continue to function to the highest standards with the least amount of downtime.

How Do Automatic Door Inspectors Become Certified?

AAADM certification programs are open to candidates who have been working in the automatic door industry for the past six months. Candidates are also eligible if they’ve been working in the industry for the past 90 days and completed a factory training course from an AAADM member. During their training, candidates:

• Undergo rigorous classroom instruction covering the inner workings of automatic doors, as well as common performance issues and the latest standards for safety and performance
• Attend hands-on sessions where they develop the technical skills necessary to detect and troubleshoot problems with door components
• Pass a comprehensive exam covering every aspect of door operation, including installation, inspection, and maintenance, with a score of at least 80 percent

After earning their AAADM certification, technicians are required to renew their membership every year by passing an additional exam, in order to demonstrate their familiarity with current ANSI regulations.

What Are the Benefits of Using an AAADM Certified Technician?

Choosing a technician certified by the AAADM provides a number of advantages to business owners. These include:

• Improved Safety. Automatic doors rely on multiple sensors to activate the operator and prevent injury. AAADM technicians are best qualified to inspect, adjust, and repair these systems, to ensure doors open as expected and don’t close on people and objects in their path.
• Legal Compliance. In order to meet ADA guidelines, at least sixty percent of entrances in newly constructed buildings must be accessible to people with wheelchairs and mobility aids. AAADM training teaches technicians how to identify both ANSI and ADA violations, making it one of the most effective ways to ensure your doors comply with government and industry standards.
• Long-Term Savings. By proactively checking and servicing critical parts, AAADM technicians address small issues before they develop into major problems. Besides increasing efficiency, this type of preventative maintenance minimizes emergency repairs and service interruptions ‒ lowering the cost of ownership while extending the lifespan of your doors.

In short, working with an AAADM technician improves door performance and your bottom line. Their knowledge and training make them the best option for businesses, institutions, and organizations that serve the public and need entrances that are safe, functional, and accessible.

Are Vortex Technicians AAADM Certified?

All eligible Vortex technicians are AAADM certified. As part of our commitment to providing customers with superior service and care, in 2013 Vortex became an authorized AAADM certification facility, enabling us to provide one-on-one training and instruction to our technicians. Our program covers all aspects of automatic doors and every technician who completes the training receives an AAADM certification. This dedication and expertise has made us a valued partner for companies across the United States, who rely on our team to keep their entrances running smoothly throughout the year. Contact us today for more information about our AADM certified automatic door repair and maintenance services!