Rolling Door Installer is Seriously Injured by Oversized Springs

This case involves a self storage facility employee in Nebraska who was injured while installing a large rolling door on one of the facility’s storage units. Unbeknownst to the employee, the coil and springs provided by the manufacturer were the wrong size, and were meant for a much, much heavier door. As a result, the springs were rated for significantly higher tension than the weight of the door to be installed required. The installer could not discern the difference in the size of the spring and coils and as a result of the mismatch, he was struck by the door upon installation. The impact knocked him off an elevated work platform, causing severe and permanent injuries.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1) Please explain your qualifications to review this case.

2) What is your background in rolling door installation?

3) What are the risks of receiving the wrong sized components for a rolling door?

Expert Witness Response E-019096

This case is right in my area of expertise and I am glad to assist. I have been in the rolling door business since the 1970s. I have served President of the International Door Association and currently serve on the board of directors. With IDA, I wrote the manual, approved by the federal government, which is the industry standard for safety. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to send customers the proper components. Improper sizing can endanger customer safety. Currently I am the president of an independent rolling door business and perform a high number of installations per month. I also directly participate in the more complicated installations.