National Automatic Door Day

National Automatic Door Day is observed on March 19. This holiday celebrates the innovation and convenience of automated entryways, recognizing their essential role in modern infrastructure. While they are often overlooked, these doors provide critical support for accessibility, public health, and architectural efficiency in hospitals, airports, and retail spaces.

History of National Automatic Door Day

The holiday was established in 2021 by the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM). The organization created the day to raise public awareness about the benefits of automatic doors and to celebrate the industry’s contributions to building design. Although the official day is a recent addition to the calendar, the technology it honors has a much longer history. The first automated doors were conceived in Ancient Greece by Hero of Alexandria, who used heat and water pressure to open temple doors.

The modern industry began to take shape in the mid-20th century. In 1954, Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt invented the first sliding automatic door after noticing that swing doors were difficult to use in high winds. Their company, Horton Automatics, brought the product to market in 1960, forever changing how people interact with public buildings. Over the decades, the technology evolved from simple pressure mats to advanced infrared sensors and motion detectors. National Automatic Door Day now serves as an annual tribute to this progression from a niche mechanical invention to a global standard for entryways.

Why is National Automatic Door Day important?

This day is significant because it highlights how automated technology fosters equality and independence. For individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers, an automatic door removes a physical barrier that might otherwise require assistance to overcome. By providing touch-free access, these systems ensure that public spaces remain inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical mobility. The day serves as a reminder that thoughtful engineering can significantly improve the quality of life for millions of people.

In addition to accessibility, the holiday emphasizes the role of automatic doors in public health and environmental sustainability. By eliminating the need to touch shared door handles, these entryways reduce the transmission of germs and viruses in high-traffic areas like grocery stores and clinics. Furthermore, automatic doors help regulate indoor climates by ensuring doors are only open when necessary, which prevents the loss of heated or cooled air. This efficiency reduces energy consumption and helps building managers maintain more sustainable operations year-round.

• It recognizes the essential role of automatic doors in universal design and accessibility.
• The day promotes public health by reducing physical touchpoints in crowded buildings.
• It highlights the energy-saving benefits of sensors that minimize air exchange.
• The holiday celebrates the engineering milestones from Ancient Greece to the modern era.
• It unites manufacturers and inspectors committed to maintaining safety standards.

How to Observe National Automatic Door Day

Observing this day is an opportunity to pay attention to the “everyday magic” of hands-free entry. You can observe the day by visiting local buildings that utilize different types of automation, such as sliding, swinging, or revolving doors. Taking a moment to appreciate the seamless operation of these systems helps foster a deeper understanding of the labor and technology required to keep society moving. Many people also use the day to learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how automatic doors help businesses stay compliant with federal accessibility laws.

For those in the facility management or construction industries, the day is an ideal time to schedule routine maintenance or inspections. Ensuring that sensors are properly calibrated and that doors operate smoothly is a practical way to honor the spirit of the day. On social media, fans of the holiday often share lighthearted videos of themselves “using the Force” to open doors, bringing a touch of humor to the technical subject. Supporting businesses that invest in high-quality, accessible entrances is another meaningful way to participate in the celebration.

• Visit a public building and notice the different types of sensors in use.
• Share a photo or video of a particularly unique or well-designed automatic entryway.
• Learn about the safety features that prevent doors from closing on pedestrians.
• Support local businesses that prioritize accessibility for all customers.
• Research the career paths available within the door manufacturing and service industry.

National Automatic Door Day Dates Table