DASMA 302-2001
Standard for Garage Door Operator and Gate Operator Terminology

DASMA 303-2006
Performance Criteria for Accessible Communications Entry Systems

DASMA 204-2004
Standard for Fire Rated Rolling Door Assemblies

DASMA 203-2004
Standard for Non-Fire Rated Rolling Doors

ANSI/DASMA 102-2004
Specifications for Sectional Overhead-Type Doors

ANSI/DASMA 103-2001 (R2006)
Standard for Counterbalance Systems on Residential Sectional Garage Doors (See FAQs below)

ANSI/DASMA 105-1992 (R2004)
Test Method for Thermal Transmittance and Air Infiltration of Garage Doors

ANSI/DASMA 107-1997 (R2004)
Room Fire Test Standard for Garage Doors Using Foam Plastic Insulation

ANSI/DASMA 108-2005
Standard Method for Testing Sectional Garage Doors and Rolling Doors: Determination of Structural Performance Under Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference

ANSI/DASMA 109-2007
Standard Method for Testing and Rating Sectional Doors: Determination of Life cycling Performance

ANSI/DASMA 115-2005
Standard Method for Testing Sectional Garage Doors and Rolling Doors: Determination of Structural Performance Under Missile Impact and Cyclic Wind Pressure

ANSI/DASMA 116-2007
Standard for Section Interfaces on Residential Garage Door Systems (See FAQs below)

Frequently Asked Questions About DASMA Standards

Here are some answers to common questions about DASMA 116, the so-called "Pinch Standard," and ANSI/DASMA 103, the standard for counterbalance systems.

Standard for Section Interfaces on Residential Sectional Garage Doors

Update: This standard is currently undergoing ANSI canvass.
[Note: These responses are provided for guidance only. DASMA recommends that you review a copy of the standard before considering pertinent applications. Interpretations of the standard should be directed to DASMA in writing.]

Q: To what kind of garage doors does the standard apply?
A: The standard applies to all residential sectional garage doors that are "generally used for vehicular traffic."

Q: Is conformance with DASMA 116 mandatory?
A: Conformance is voluntary, because the standard is voluntary.

Q: How does a door qualify as "pinch resistant?"
A: A door qualifying as "pinch resistant" is a door that conforms to the requirements of DASMA 116.

Q: Is the intent of the standard to prevent minor injuries such as blood blisters or abrasions?
A: The intent of DASMA 116 is to reduce serious injuries.

Q: Is there another means to conform to DASMA 116 other than a section joint passing a "probe insertion test?"
A: Yes. The standard can be met by using handles, or suitable gripping points, as described in the standard.

Q: How many handles are called for under the standard?
A: The standard calls for two handles or gripping points on the inside and two on the outside. One must be on the bottom section within six inches of the bottom edge, and the other must be 20-30 inches directly above it. If a handle is within four inches of a section interface, it must "promote vertical orientation of the hand."

Q: Who installs the handles?
A: They can be installed at the factory or by the installer.

Standard for Counterbalance Systems on Residential Sectional Garage Doors

Q: Is conformance with ANSI/DASMA 103 mandatory?
A: Conformance is voluntary, because the standard is voluntary.

Q: What options are available for a manufacturer?
A: There are three options: 1) install counterbalance components so that they cannot be removed before tension is released from the system, 2) provide counterbalance component fasteners that require special knowledge, skill or tool for removal, and 3) provide counterbalance components that are red in color.

Q: How does a manufacturer conform to ANSI/DASMA 103?
A: Those wanting to conform to the standard may choose the appropriate method best suited for their business. Manufacturers must then supply the necessary design, components, and instructions according to their selected conformance method.

Q: What kind of warning labels are called for by the standard?
A: Warning labels are to be used when red counterbalance components are supplied. The manufacturer may decide to supply warning labels in conjunction with either of the other two options, but they are not required in these cases.