Warringtonfire announces live demonstrations at the NEC
Warringtonfire will be conducting live fire door demonstrations at the Fire Safety and Security Event.
This event is scheduled to take place at the NEC from Tuesday 30 April to Thursday 2 May 2024.
These demonstrations, led by the company’s fire door testing experts, aim to showcase the correct installation techniques of fire doors.
Warringtonfire, along with its parent company, Element Materials Technology, and sister brand, BM TRADA, will be located at stand 4/P2 for the duration of the event.
The company will also provide a walkthrough on the correct way to install a fire door, covering aspects such as fitting the frame, architraves, and ironmongery.
Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to witness live PAS 24 security tests, demonstrating the robustness of fire doors against potential breaches.
Legal requirements and installation importance
The legal mandate for manufacturers of fire doors to demonstrate their products’ fire resistance capabilities highlights the critical nature of these installations.
Warringtonfire is using this platform to emphasize the potential compromise in fire resistance if fire doors are not properly installed.
Moreover, the importance of third-party installer certification schemes will be discussed, showing the necessary steps for correct fire door installation as per the FIRAS certification scheme guidelines.
Expert insights and demonstration details
Peter Barker, Technical Governance Manager at Warringtonfire, expressed his anticipation for the event: “The Fire Safety and Security Event is one we always look out for in the calendar, and we’re excited to be highlighting just some of our offerings at our stand.”
He further elaborated on the significance of proper fire door installation for compliance and safety in emergencies.
The company promises engaging demonstrations, including a PAS 24 annex assessment, to explain their testing processes for ensuring door security against external threats.
Additional demonstrations by Element Materials Technology
In alignment with Warringtonfire’s demonstrations, the Element Materials Technology team will be conducting presentations on the PAS 24 tests, including detailed attack simulations on door locking hardware.
These tests are designed to challenge the doors’ integrity, providing a comprehensive assessment of their security features.
IFSJ Comment
The initiative by Warringtonfire to host live fire door demonstrations at the upcoming Fire Safety and Security Event marks a pivotal moment for industry professionals and stakeholders.
By focusing on the critical aspects of fire door installation and compliance, Warringtonfire addresses a key component of fire safety, educating attendees on the nuanced details of ensuring optimal performance in fire resistance.
Such educational efforts are instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding of fire safety requirements and the technical proficiency necessary for effective fire door installation.
As the industry continues to evolve, the emphasis on practical demonstrations and the dissemination of expert knowledge play a crucial role in advancing safety standards and protecting lives and properties from fire hazards.
NHS trusts see an alarming increase in fire incidents
New figures released by NHS Digital reveal a concerning rise in fire incidents recorded by NHS trusts, with 1,372 fires reported in the 2022/23 period.
This marks an increase of over 18% from the previous year, translating to almost four fires daily across the NHS.
This upsurge highlights a critical need for enhanced fire safety measures within healthcare facilities.
In light of these statistics, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland is drawing attention to the critical importance of proper fire door specification, installation, and regular maintenance.
The company underscores the role of fire doors in ensuring safety and compliance within healthcare settings.
The crucial role of fire doors in healthcare safety
Brian Sofley, Managing Director at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland Door Group, emphasized the significance of fire doors as a fundamental safety feature.
“The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires healthcare organisations to undertake risk assessments to identify the general fire precautions needed to safeguard occupants in case of fire, including their safe means of escape,” said Sofley.
He pointed out that while correct specification and installation of fire doors are vital, the responsibility extends to regular inspections to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
Sofley also highlighted the unique challenges faced by healthcare buildings in meeting the specific requirements for fire doorsets, citing varied legislation and building regulations.
He stressed the need for more robust fire protection systems to prevent failures.
Enhancing compliance through technology
ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio™ BIM application is part of the solution to aid in compliant fire door specification in hospitals.
The application integrates with design software to facilitate the creation and visualization of complete door, frame, and hardware schedules.
This approach enables a collaborative, real-time validation of designs for compliance, functionality, and aesthetics, culminating in the manufacture of comprehensive doorset solutions.
The Openings Studio™ mobile app further supports the installation process by providing access to data and an easy-to-use system for detailed inspections.
“This report validates if a door has remained compliant, or identifies what elements need to be corrected or replaced to return the product to the required standard, providing full traceability and ownership of all changes at all stages,” explained the company.
Commitment to fire door safety
Door Group, a unit of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, offers comprehensive inspections to support fire door safety in hospitals.
These inspections, which can occur at intervals ranging from three to 12 months, aim to identify and address potential issues that could compromise safety and performance.
“These new figures are extremely concerning – hospitals should be a safe and secure environment for staff and patients, and concerns around fire safety should not have to cross their minds,” added Sofley.
He affirmed the company’s dedication to assisting healthcare organisations across the UK in ensuring fire protection across their estates, from door specification and installation to regular, thorough inspections.
IFSJ Comment
The recent surge in fire incidents reported by NHS trusts is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining safety standards within healthcare environments.
The emphasis on the critical role of fire doors by ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland serves as a call to action for healthcare organisations to re-evaluate and reinforce their fire safety protocols.
With the integration of advanced technologies like the Openings Studio™ BIM application and mobile app, there’s a pathway towards achieving better compliance and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff.
Newbury lock manufacturer discusses regulatory concerns with MP
Codelocks, a lock manufacturer based in Newbury, recently hosted Laura Farris, Newbury MP, to discuss the significant challenges proposed changes to fire door testing requirements pose to UK businesses.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) plans to shift from British Standard BS47622 testing to solely using the European Standard EN1634-1.
This move is expected to bring about adverse effects on UK firms, including potential multi-million-pound costs, job losses, and a reduction in product choices without improving life safety benefits significantly.
Industry and government dialogue
During her visit, Farris toured Codelocks’ facilities, gaining insight into the company’s digital lock solutions and understanding the proposed regulatory changes’ impacts on its employees and broader business operations.
Colin Campbell, Managing Director at Codelocks, expressed concerns about the proposal’s potential effects: “If the proposal goes ahead, then many organisations, including our own, will be unable to specify or sell a significant portion of our products without huge investment in re-testing products that are already approved.
“The consequences for independent hardware businesses in the UK will be substantial, affecting the livelihoods of employees in Newbury and other communities across the UK.”
Costs and consequences for businesses
Douglas Masterson, Technical Manager at the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), highlighted the financial burden the changes could impose: “We are trying to protect the interests of UK businesses against a significant industry change.
The typical cost of the new fire test is about £11,000, with many members having to do substantial amounts of re-testing.
It’s clear to see how quickly those costs would add up for independent UK firms while also causing massive delays and disruption.”
The consultation on the proposed changes has received over 270 responses, with the government planning an impact assessment before any legal amendments.
The GAI has argued that there is no evidence the change will enhance fire door safety and could, in fact, lead to less secure fire doors due to value-engineering and reduced specifications.
Proposals for improving fire door safety
“There is broad consensus that the British Standard BS47622 is fit for purpose,” Campbell added, suggesting that introducing mandatory standards or training for fire door installation and maintenance could more effectively address safety concerns.
Research from the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) indicates that 75% of fire doors fail to meet required standards, primarily due to issues with fitting, sealing, and maintenance.
Laura Farris MP remarked on her visit, “There are many thriving companies in my constituency, and it was a privilege to visit Codelocks and learn about its business.
“I have heard the potential impacts of the changes to fire door safety regulations and their importance.
“I will help them to raise awareness of this issue as I do with the many local businesses that I represent.”
IFSJ Comment
The discussions between Codelocks and Laura Farris MP shine a light on the impending regulatory changes in fire door testing and their possible ramifications for UK businesses.
With substantial costs, potential job losses, and concerns over product diversity at stake, the dialogue underscores the need for a balanced approach that safeguards both industry interests and public safety.
As the sector awaits the government’s final decision, the emphasis on collaboration and consultation serves as a crucial step towards ensuring that any changes serve to enhance, rather than hinder, fire safety standards across the UK.
Certification to LPS 2081 from the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), BRE, and Secured by Design offers confidence to consumers that the door complies with rigorous performance criteria.
Introduced in 2015, the LPS 2081 standard was established to counter stealthy attempts by opportunistic intruders.
This certification indicates two security grades, centred on the tools employed and the time taken by attackers to keep silent.
It’s noteworthy that this standard is distinct from LPS 1175, which concerns vandalism and security.
The Powershield Rathlin doors possess an LPS 2081 Security B rating, the higher of the two, resisting intrusions for up to 3 minutes using a superior toolkit.
Words from Door Group’s management
Brian Sofley, Managing Director at Door Group, stated: “At Door Group we understand how important it is that our doorset solutions meet the standards and legislation for safety and security.
“The Powershield Rathlin door’s LPS 2081 certification demonstrates its ability to withstand a stealth attack, where the intruder avoids making significant noise that would usually draw attention.
“Since launching the door last year, we have had extremely positive feedback from customers, and it is an excellent addition to our comprehensive portfolio of high-performance products.
“The Powershield steel door range combines high performance with high quality, offering a fully compliant, fully finished door set with factory-fitted hardware.
“Plus, doors and frames are designed to ensure ease of installation on-site and provide the end user with a premium door solution.”
IFSJ Comment
The Powershield Rathlin door’s certification as indicative of ASSA ABLOY’s commitment to providing top-tier security solutions.
With the current landscape prioritising safety, such advancements resonate with industry professionals and consumers alike, promising a safer future.
One of the most common questions with regards to fire safety is where are fire doors required?
Fire safety is of paramount importance in any building or structure, and fire doors are an integral part of ensuring the safety and protection of occupants and property during a fire emergency.
These specialised doors are meticulously engineered to serve as barriers against the rapid spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases, effectively compartmentalising the building and providing valuable time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.
In this article we will answer questions such as where are fire doors required, why fire doors are needed, what materials are used in their construction, what regulations that govern their installation, what safety checks are needed to maintain their functionality and what their cost implications are.
Where are Fire Doors Required?
Where fire doors are required is one of the most common questions raised by new business owners.
They are required by law in all properties that are for business or non-domestic usage.
Fire doors are vital for fire safety
Fire doors play an essential role in various settings to enhance fire safety and protect occupants from the dangers of fire incidents.
They are strategically installed in a wide range of locations, including commercial buildings, residential buildings, industrial facilities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
Commercial Buildings
Fire doors serve a critical role in securing escape routes during a fire emergency, providing occupants with a clear and safe path to evacuate the building.
In various commercial settings, such as offices, hotels, restaurants, and shops, fire doors are essential for ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and visitors.
These doors compartmentalise the building, containing the fire and allowing occupants to safely exit.
Similarly, in multi-occupancy residential buildings like apartments and care homes, fire doors play a crucial role in safeguarding residents.
By preventing the rapid spread of fire between units, fire doors provide precious time for evacuation and help minimise the impact of the fire on the entire building.
Industrial Facilities
Industrial facilities, including manufacturing plants, warehouses, and storage areas, require fire doors to protect both employees and valuable assets.
In these settings, the risk of fire can be significant due to the presence of flammable materials and machinery.
Fire doors play a crucial role in such environments by sectioning the building.
In the event of a fire, the fire doors act as barriers, containing the fire to a specific area and preventing its rapid spread.
This containment allows employees to safely evacuate the affected area and seek refuge in other fire-resistant compartments until help arrives.
By containing the fire, fire doors help to minimise damage to the facility, its contents, and the surrounding areas.
They also provide additional time for emergency responders to arrive and mitigate the situation.
This is vital in industrial settings where a rapid and uncontrolled fire could have catastrophic consequences for both human lives and business operations.
To achieve this, fire doors are strategically installed throughout the buildings.
In educational settings, fire doors are commonly found in corridors, classrooms, and assembly areas.
Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, must maintain a safe environment to protect patients and staff.
Fire doors are a critical component of fire safety in healthcare settings, ensuring that patients can be evacuated safely and that critical areas, such as operating rooms and patient wards, remain protected.
Where are Fire Doors Required in a House?
In most residential properties, fire doors are not required by law, however there are exceptions to this rule.
If the property is 3 stories or more, for example a block of flats, then a fire door is needed on every floor where a room connects onto the stairwell.
Also, if a garage connects directly to a property with access via a door, then the door must comply with fire safety regulations.
Some property owners install fire doors where not required by law, just to increase fire safety in the property.
If fire doors are installed in a house, then they are strategically placed in key areas to prevent fire spread:
Kitchen: Fire doors in the kitchen separate it from living spaces, containing potential fires.
Garage: Fire doors are crucial if the garage has direct access to living areas.
Basement: Fire doors may be necessary in the basement to protect escape routes and contain fires.
What Do Fire Doors Do?
Fire doors serve as essential components of passive fire protection measures, providing critical barriers to contain flames, smoke, and toxic gases in the event of a fire.
When a fire occurs, the proper functioning of fire doors can significantly impact the safety of building occupants and the overall integrity of the structure.
Fire doors can help stop fire spreading to other parts of buildings
One of the primary functions of fire doors is their ability to compartmentalise a building.
When closed, fire doors form a seal between different areas of the building, preventing the rapid spread of fire and smoke to other parts of the structure.
By containing the fire to its point of origin, fire doors effectively limit the extent of damage and provide occupants with valuable time to evacuate the building safely.
What are Fire Doors Made From?
Fire doors are made from various materials with excellent fire-resistant properties, ensuring that they can withstand high temperatures and intense heat.
Timber
Timber is a commonly used material for fire doors, valued for its aesthetic appeal and reliable fire protection.
Solid timber fire doors offer a classic and natural look, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings alike.
Timber fire doors are available in various finishes and can be customised to complement the overall interior design of a space.
The thickness and quality of the timber used in the door’s construction determine its fire-resistant capabilities.
Steel
Steel fire doors are another widely used type of fire door, particularly in commercial and industrial settings.
Steel doors offer exceptional strength and durability, making them suitable for high-traffic areas and locations with more stringent security requirements.
Steel fire doors are commonly found in industrial and commercial properties
Steel fire doors can be coated with fire-resistant materials to enhance their fire resistance, and they are often used in facilities where protection against fire and potential break-ins is paramount.
Composite
Composite fire doors are a versatile option that combines various materials to provide enhanced fire resistance and durability.
These doors typically feature a core made from fire-resistant materials, such as mineral wool or vermiculite boards, sandwiched between layers of other materials like timber, steel, or laminate.
The combination of different materials in composite fire doors creates a door that is both robust and capable of withstanding the effects of fire for an extended period.
These standards are designed to test and assess the fire resistance and integrity of fire doors, ensuring that they can withstand the impact of a fire and provide adequate protection to occupants and property.
Fire Rating
One of the essential aspects of fire door regulations is the fire rating.
Fire doors are rated based on their ability to withstand fire for a specific duration, usually indicated as 30, 60, or 90 minutes.
This fire rating determines how long the door can effectively contain the spread of fire, smoke, and heat, providing occupants with valuable time to evacuate safely and emergency responders to take action.
Integrity
In addition to fire resistance, fire doors must also maintain their structural integrity during a fire.
This means that they should prevent the passage of flames and smoke, forming a barrier that can effectively contain the fire to a specific area of the building.
The ability of fire doors to maintain their integrity is critical in preventing the rapid spread of fire, protecting other parts of the building and allowing a more controlled response to the emergency.
Self-Closing Mechanism
Another essential feature of fire doors is the self-closing mechanism.
Fire doors should automatically close and latch when not in use, ensuring that they are ready to act as a barrier in case of a fire.
This self-closing mechanism helps prevent the accidental propping open of fire doors, which could compromise their effectiveness during an emergency.
Labelling
To provide clear and easily accessible information, fire doors should have appropriate labelling.
The label on a fire door typically indicates its fire rating and compliance with safety standards.
This labelling helps building occupants and emergency responders quickly identify fire doors and understand their fire resistance capabilities.
How are Safety Checks on Fire Doors Carried Out?
A proper safety check on fire doors is essential to ensure their functionality during an emergency, and has to be done by someone trained in fire door inspections.
Here are some key steps to include in a fire door safety inspection:
Check Closers
Verify that the door closes smoothly and latches securely without any obstructions.
Proper functioning closers are crucial to ensure that the door can effectively close and seal off the area in case of a fire.
Inspect Seals
Ensure that intumescent seals around the door frame and perimeter are intact.
These seals expand when exposed to heat, creating a barrier against the spread of flames and smoke.
Examine Hinges
Check for loose or damaged hinges that could affect the door’s performance.
Hinges should be in good condition and securely attached to the door and frame.
Look for Damage
Check for any cracks, holes, or damage that may compromise the door’s integrity.
Any damage to the door can weaken its ability to withstand fire and limit its effectiveness in containing flames and smoke.
Test Latching
Confirm that the latch engages correctly with the strike plate when the door is closed.
A properly functioning latch ensures that the door remains closed and prevents the passage of smoke and flames.
Evaluate Gap Sizes
Ensure that the gaps around the door are within the specified limits.
Properly sized gaps are essential for the door’s fire resistance, as excessive gaps can allow the passage of smoke and flames.
Regular fire door inspections are critical to maintaining their effectiveness in fire safety.
If any issues are identified during the safety check, prompt repairs or replacements should be made to ensure that the fire doors are ready to perform their vital role in protecting lives and property during a fire emergency.
Previously, inspections were conducted every six months to ensure compliance with fire door rules and regulations.
However, with the new regulations in place, there are updated inspection frequencies for different types of fire doors:
Communal Fire Doors
These will now be expected to undergo inspection every 3 months.
This increased frequency aims to enhance safety and ensure that communal areas are adequately protected.
Fire & Escape Doors (FEDs)
FEDs will be subject to inspection at least once a year.
This measure aims to maintain the integrity of escape routes and vital access points in buildings.
Fire and Escape doors need regular inspections to ensure maximum protection against fire
These changes reflect a more proactive approach to fire safety, ensuring that fire doors are regularly checked and maintained to meet the highest safety standards.
Can Fire Doors Have Windows?
Fire doors are designed with the option of including vision panels that are equipped with fire-resistant glazing.
These vision panels offer the advantage of visibility between different areas, allowing natural light to pass through while maintaining fire safety regulations.
High-quality fire-rated glass can withstand temperatures of up to 900 degrees Celsius, over seven times that of normal glass.
Moreover, it can maintain its integrity for over 60 minutes, effectively preventing the fire from spreading and providing ample time for evacuation and fire personnel to respond.
By following these regulations, property owners can strike a balance between safety and functionality, providing occupants with both fire protection and the convenience of visual communication within the building.
How Much Do Fire Doors Cost?
The cost of fire doors can vary significantly depending on several factors.
The primary determinants of the price include the material used, the fire rating of the door, its size, and any additional features it may have.
Here are some key factors that influence the cost of fire doors:
Material
Fire doors can be made from various materials, including timber, steel, and composite materials.
Each material has different characteristics and price points, with steel doors generally being more expensive than timber doors.
Fire Rating
Fire doors are assigned specific fire ratings, indicating the duration they can withstand exposure to fire.
Doors with higher fire ratings tend to be more expensive due to their increased fire resistance capabilities.
Size
The size of the fire door is another important factor in determining its cost.
Larger doors may require more materials and hardware, resulting in a higher price.
Additional Features
Some fire doors come with additional features, such as vision panels, glazing, or special hardware.
These features can add to the overall cost of the door.
The cost of a standard fire door can vary because of these factors, with a low-end fire door being rather low cost, to the upper end coming in with a price tag in the thousands.
However, it is essential to consider that investing in high-quality fire doors is a crucial aspect of ensuring fire safety in any building.
Fire doors play a critical role in preventing the spread of fire and protecting lives and property.
Therefore, it is recommended to prioritise the quality and compliance of fire doors over cost considerations to ensure the utmost safety and security in the event of a fire emergency.
Conclusion
Fire doors are indispensable components of fire safety measures, protecting lives and properties during emergencies.
Having an answer to the question of where are fire doors required, as well as their functions, materials, regulations, and safety checks is essential for creating a secure environment.
Whether in commercial buildings, residential properties, or industrial facilities, the proper installation and maintenance of fire doors contribute significantly to fire prevention and enhanced safety for occupants.
Enhancing door safety with the new slimline letterplate
Lorient, a major manufacturer of advanced sealing systems, is launching a slimline fire and security rated letterplate to its door hardware protection line-up.
When letterplates are incorporated into fire doors, sections of the fire-resistant door core are displaced and replaced with ironmongery, increasing the thermal conductivity.
The outcome could be a vulnerability in the door where a fire might gain a foothold and compromise the doorset’s integrity.
For this reason, it is vital that fire-rated ironmongery be employed on timber doorsets and be tested to a pertinent standard, frequently in combination with an intumescent kit.
Lorient’s slimline letterplate: combining security and aesthetic appeal
The RJ007, Lorient’s newly introduced slimline letterplate, marries fire and security performance with functionality and style.
It is crafted to fulfil the stringent security standards of TS008:2015 and has passed a series of physical tests based on usual burglary methods.
The letterplate showcases a novel pivoting stay mechanism that narrows the opening to 37 degrees, enhancing protection against key ‘fishing’ and lock manipulation.
The RJ007 has proven its capability to provide between 30 and 60 minutes of fire resistance, tested in line with BS 476-22:1987, and smoke tested following BS EN 1634-3:2004.
In addition to its credentials, the letterplate holds a CF5688 approval from Warringtonfire Testing & Certification Limited, and is TS008:2015 accredited, Document Q and PAS 24:2016 compliant.
It has a minimal internal flap projection of only 14mm from the door, giving it a less intrusive aesthetic, while the unrestricted door opening prevents damage to the letterplate or the internal wall when the door is fully opened.
A variety of finishes are available to match the fire door as needed.
This launch exemplifies the continuous improvement of fire and safety measures in the door hardware industry. Lorient’s slimline fire and security rated letterplate adds an important layer of protection to fire doors, without compromising on the aesthetic appeal, a feature often overlooked in safety measures.
At The Fire Safety Event 2023, which will take place from 25th to 27th April at the NEC, Birmingham, Allegion UK will unveil its new set of Briton ‘Fire Door Safety in Review’ guides. Allegion UK is a pioneer in fire safety hardware and manufacturer of ‘Briton’ door controls.
The guides will be presented by the company’s door hardware experts at stand 3A/A40, in support of fire safety professionals. The guides aim to provide accessible and essential information on hardware specification, installation, and maintenance, to help responsible persons comply with the latest codes and industry regulations, with a view to improving fire safety standards in buildings.
During the three-day event, Allegion will showcase its latest set of Briton best practice guides. These guides are designed to provide a broader understanding of fire door safety in commercial, education, and healthcare environments.
The three ‘Fire Door Safety in Review’ guides take a closer look at the developing fire safety landscape in each setting. The guides have been compiled using original research from relevant sectors, and each draws upon key insights from building managers and door hardware specialists.
A fundamental role in fire safety
Speaking on their plans for the event, Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Architectural ironmongery plays a fundamental role in the fire safety and security of our built environment, and we remain committed to raising awareness and improving sector knowledge across the board.
This year’s show presents us with a perfect opportunity to unveil our new Briton ‘Fire Door Safety in Review’ guides, as we look to deliver valuable expertise and appropriate specification guidance to a wide-reaching audience of professionals.
“Allegion UK shares a clear and common goal with The Fire Safety Event, and we’re delighted to welcome visitors to stand 3A/A40, where our team of experts will be on hand to share trusted expertise on fire door safety alongside copies of our latest best practice guides.”
About The Fire Safety Event
The Fire Safety Event is dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the highest standards of fire safety management, and showcases the latest products, technology and solutions in fire safety. For more information, or to register for the event, visit: www.firesafetyevent.com.
A newly launched range of push bar, push pad, and touch bar panic and emergency exit devices and external hardware has been launched by ASSA ABLOY to form an integral part of building safety
Specifically designed for aluminium doors with Concealed Vertical Rods (CVR), the range is compatible with both new builds and renovations on private and commercial projects, including as retail and hospitality spaces and retrofitting to the most common current hardware products in the marketplace, making them ideal for RMI projects in the public sector.
Independently tested and certified to EN 1125 and EN 179, the hardware is fully compliant to UKCA and CE standards. Successfully passing the rigours of PAS 24 as a component of a doorset – a security requirement in many commercial buildings – they offer added peace of mind to the building owner and users.
No additional keeps or doorset detailing are required for a doorset to complete PAS 24 testing, making this latest solution compliant out of the box and saving customers time and cost. Plus, ASSA ABLOY can help customers with PAS 24 testing through its UKAS-accredited test lab.
The external hardware can be locked off to prevent un-authorised entry, without compromising building users’ ability to escape. The OAD lever shape and panic products help meet the requirements of BS 8300, ensuring buildings are accessible by all users as well as giving an attractive suited range that creates a coordinated finish throughout the building.
Alison Aston from ASSA ABLOY said: “Building on our heritage in the aluminium door hardware market, with our brands like Adams Rite, the new range is easier for our customers to stock and simpler to install, saving them time and cost. Thanks to our in-house expertise, our products are UK designed, tested, and manufactured – providing added supply chain security and quality assurance.
“When creating the new range, we’ve listened to customer feedback, and have developed products that are affordable and instantly compatible with PAS 24 and non-PAS 24 doorsets, reducing the need for additional stock holding and/or door fabrication. Plus, as a retrofittable product, they are quick to install and can instantly upgrade a building’s aesthetics and safety.”
Suitable for a wide variety of applications, the new range can be used on either single or non-rebated double doors and both the push bar and touch bar can be cut to size on site, allowing for a more bespoke fit.
UK manufacturer of high-performance engineered doors has successfully completed an 18-month project to design test and manufacture 19 fire-rated doors for a major North American rail tunnel.
The sliding, single-leaf fire-rated doors were designed at Rhino’s production facility in South Wales and built to withstand both positive and negative pressures from passing trains, as well as to combat fatigue from over one million loading cycles per year.
Built from carbon steel and protected with high-performance paint, the doors were tested to North American fire-rating standards (NFPA 252), subjected to 1,000-degree temperatures for 90 minutes and followed by shock loading from high-pressure fire-fighting hoses.
Following these rigorous physical fire tests, the doors were also assessed to BS 476 Part 22 and granted a 60-minute integrity rating.
The success of these tests demonstrated the doors’ ability in retaining structural integrity under harsh and challenging conditions, namely rapid changes in temperature.
Rhino, which has two manufacturing bases in the UK, recently scaled up the work taking place at its Lancashire site in order to meet this major project’s upcoming deadlines for delivery and installation.
Dr Chris Norris, Group Engineering Director at Rhino Engineering Group, commented: “After nearly two years of work designing, testing and manufacturing the doors, it’s great to see the hard work of our team pay off as the contract draws to a close.
“The success of this North American rail tunnel project, alongside our recent work at London Underground’s Bank Station, is cementing our reputation in the global transport sector.
“We’re now looking forward to putting our team’s expertise to task in future rail projects, continuing to provide our critical infrastructure clients with the strength to protect.”
This door type (Rhino-FD90SLP) is now available for future projects where fire-rated cross passage escape doors are required. Learn about Rhino’s work on major rail projects here and find out more about Rhino’s range of products by visiting the website here.
The UK Government has released fire door guidance for England providing information on how to conduct routine checks on fire doors and provide information to residents as new regulations come into effect.
The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 were placed on the statute book on 18 May 2022, and came into force on 23 January 2023. The regulations implement the majority of those recommendations made to government in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report which require a change in the law.
The short guide is intended to assist those with duties under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations to comply with regulation 10, which makes requirements about fire doors in all buildings that contain two or more domestic premises and that contain common parts, through which residents would need to evacuate in a fire.
It is aimed at carrying out simple checks upon a fire door, and is based on the assumption that the fire risk assessment has already assessed the suitability of the fire doors. It is also to ensure that the fire doors remain suitable and match those that were taken into account in the fire risk assessment.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires that, in a block of flats, there are suitable fire precautions in place to make sure that the common parts are safe to use as a means of escape in the event of fire. As with all fire safety measures, fire doors need to be kept in good working order and in good repair as wear and tear can result in defects.
