ASSA ABLOY appoints three senior team members in UK Door Group

by Featured NewsFire DoorsPeople

ASSA ABLOY strengthens UK team with three appointments

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions has announced three new appointments to its UK Door Group leadership team, expanding capability across finance, marketing and sales.

The company confirmed the appointments of Lisa O’Hanlon as Finance Director, Emma Callaghan as Marketing Executive and Steve Judd as Area Sales Manager.

Each team member brings sector-specific experience and will support the company’s operational functions at sites across the UK.

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions stated that the appointments form part of its ongoing business development strategy.

The company added that these new roles reflect its continued investment in team structure and client service delivery.

Finance lead appointed with 20 years’ experience

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions reported that Lisa O’Hanlon has taken on the role of Finance Director within the UK Door Group.

O’Hanlon is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and has held senior finance roles across construction, manufacturing and food sectors.

She now leads a five-person finance team and is involved in supporting executive business planning and delivery across departments.

Lisa O’Hanlon said: “The role really appealed to me because of the unique combination of being part of a small, close-knit company while also benefiting from the backing of a global organisation, it felt like the best of both worlds.

“I’m excited to step up to this new challenge and it’s been great to lead the finance function as well as contributing to the wider decisions that shape the business.

“I’m focused on building a culture of pride and positive relationships across all stakeholder groups.”

New marketing executive based at Lisburn site

The company has also confirmed the appointment of Emma Callaghan as Marketing Executive.

Emma is based at the Door Group’s Lisburn office and brings around ten years of marketing experience, having worked in automotive, e-commerce and diagnostics sectors.

She holds a BSc in Advertising and a Master’s in Digital Media Communication and is responsible for campaign strategy, internal communications and digital marketing content.

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions said her role involves collaboration across sales and technical teams.

Emma Callaghan said: “I was looking for a supportive and progressive environment where I could make an impact, and ASSA ABLOY has exceeded my expectations.

“The work we do here, particularly around safety and compliance has really opened my eyes to how vital doors are in building design and security.

“As the sole marketer for Door Group, I’ve had the opportunity to shape our strategy while collaborating with teams across technical, sales and leadership.

“I’m excited to keep developing my skills, particularly in design and visual storytelling and to play a key role in raising the profile of our innovative door solutions.”

Sales appointment supports regional engagement

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions reported that Steve Judd has joined the company as Area Sales Manager for Door Group.

Judd has over 20 years of experience in account management and sales, including in roles within ironmongery, timber doors and furniture fittings.

The company noted that his appointment reflects a focus on customer relationship management and contract delivery.

Steve Judd said: “I’ve always liked adding little touches that make an end users experience more than just the standard. I’m looking forward to becoming that reliable point of contact, it’s all about trust and consistency.”

“It’s been great to hone in on my organisational skills, especially when managing multiple accounts and contracts.

“I’m enjoying the learning curve and look forward to helping our customers find the right solutions with the quality and service they expect from ASSA ABLOY.”

ASSA ABLOY UK continues investment in people

According to ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, the new appointments demonstrate its focus on growing internal capability and aligning team skills with market expectations.

The company stated that the appointments build on its efforts to integrate operations across sales, marketing and finance functions.

It also noted that all three team members will support cross-department collaboration and contribute to business process development.

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions added that these hires reflect wider industry movement towards joined-up leadership in customer delivery, technical compliance and operational efficiency.

The organisation has encouraged clients and partners to engage with the Door Group through its official channels and upcoming projects.

ASSA ABLOY announces new leadership team in UK Door Group: Summary

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions has appointed three new team members to its UK Door Group.

Lisa O’Hanlon joins as Finance Director with 20 years of experience.

Emma Callaghan has been appointed Marketing Executive at the Lisburn office.

Steve Judd is the new Area Sales Manager with a background in timber doors and fittings.

The company confirmed that all three bring industry-specific expertise.

The new appointments form part of the company’s UK growth strategy.

O’Hanlon leads a five-person finance team and supports strategic delivery.

Callaghan is responsible for campaign planning and internal communications.

Judd supports client relationship management and regional sales.

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions said the appointments reflect investment in operational capacity.

The announcement was published by ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions on 19 June 2025.

Middle East fire doors market grows with construction and safety reform

by Featured NewsFire DoorsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPassiveResearch

Fire door market expands in Saudi Arabia and UAE

The Middle East fire doors and partitions market is projected to reach USD 1,619.8 million by 2030, according to Grand View Research, Inc.

The report noted that the market is growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.1 percent.

It stated that fire safety regulations in Saudi Arabia and the UAE are driving this growth.

According to Grand View Research, Saudi Arabia’s adoption of the Saudi Building Code has led to increased demand for fire-rated doors and partitions.

In the UAE, the expansion of commercial and healthcare infrastructure is creating further demand for fire protection products.

Regulatory updates drive compliance-focused investment

Grand View Research explained that new fire protection codes in Saudi Arabia have created a need for enhanced fire safety in both new and existing buildings.

The organisation reported that the Saudi Building Code mandates higher safety standards in residential and commercial construction.

It stated that large-scale real estate developments, including high-rise buildings, are being constructed to meet stricter fire compliance.

In the UAE, the report highlighted that real estate developments linked to Expo 2020, along with major hospital projects, are incorporating advanced fire-rated partitions.

These changes reflect a broader emphasis on protecting occupants in dense, high-risk structures.

Fire protection features linked to economic diversification projects

Grand View Research found that fire safety product demand is growing in sectors targeted by national development strategies.

In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 projects such as smart cities and entertainment districts require compliance with international fire safety standards.

The report noted that these requirements are boosting uptake of fire-rated doors and partitions.

It also cited infrastructure development in hospitality and transport as contributing factors.

Similarly, in the UAE, the rise in commercial, leisure and retail construction is driving demand for doors and partitions that meet both functional and design standards.

Technology innovation shapes product offerings

According to Grand View Research, manufacturers in the Middle East are developing new materials and systems for fire doors and partitions.

The report stated that lighter, composite materials are being introduced to reduce costs while maintaining fire performance.

It also reported that glazing solutions are being used to allow greater design flexibility.

The organisation added that automation, including self-closing mechanisms linked to alarm systems, is becoming more common in commercial settings.

These developments are expanding the options available to developers who must balance safety with aesthetics and operational efficiency.

Market growth supported by fire safety awareness

The report highlighted that high-profile incidents, such as the 2017 Torch Tower fire in Dubai, have raised awareness of fire risks in the region.

It found that both government authorities and private developers are increasingly prioritising risk mitigation.

Fire safety education initiatives have also contributed to better understanding of compliance requirements.

The report stated that property owners are more willing to invest in fire-rated doors as part of broader fire management strategies.

It added that this is particularly evident in high-rise and mixed-use developments where fire prevention is a critical issue.

Middle East fire doors market grows with construction and safety reform: Summary

The Middle East fire doors and partitions market is projected to reach USD 1,619.8 million by 2030.

The market is growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.1 percent.

This projection was reported by Grand View Research, Inc.

Growth is driven by building code changes in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The Saudi Building Code has increased demand for fire-rated doors.

In the UAE, commercial and healthcare expansion is raising safety product demand.

Vision 2030 projects in Saudi Arabia are incorporating new fire safety standards.

Expo-linked developments in the UAE require enhanced fire protection.

Manufacturers are producing lighter and smarter fire-rated products.

Automation and glazing technologies are being adopted.

High-profile fires have increased public and industry awareness.

Fire safety education has supported compliance across both countries.

ASSA ABLOY is expanding its EMEIA fire-rated portfolio through acquisition.

Fire doors training, regulation and competence discussed at UK ASFP TG10 meeting

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DoorsPassive

UK fire doors task group discusses training, myths and compliance

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported that its Task Group 10 (TG10) met in May 2025 to discuss updates on fire doors, including training, regulation and industry collaboration.

The group’s fourth meeting addressed projects including a multi-volume Colour Book, a fire door podcast series, and upcoming guidance on nominal and notional fire doors.

According to the ASFP, attendees also examined training gaps and regulatory changes, especially those relating to the Building Safety Act and the Construction Products Reform Green Paper.

ASFP updates Colour Book and podcast plans

The ASFP stated that TG10 confirmed progress on Volume 1 of its Colour Book, which will address design, specification and planning.

The group decided to split the Colour Book into multiple volumes to better support competence frameworks. A draft of Volume 1 is expected by the end of July.

Attendees were asked to volunteer for editorial support and podcast contributions, with the TG10 podcast series seeking guest suggestions and topic input.

The association also said that a draft advisory note on nominal and notional fire doors is close to completion.

While TG10 does not endorse these terms, it noted the need to outline their risks and controls.

Shifting towards competence-led fire door safety

A central discussion, led by ASFP’s Kate Milford, addressed how the fire door sector is moving away from a compliance-based model towards a competence-focused approach.

The ASFP said this change was driven by post-Grenfell legislation including the Building Safety Act and supported by industry bodies such as the Industry Competence Committee and the Industry Competence Steering Group.

It also pointed to work by SLG12, chaired by ASFP’s David Marah, which seeks to unify fire protection knowledge across the sector.

TG10 acknowledged that installation and inspection training is well established, while areas like procurement and product selection remain underdeveloped.

Fire door training and the ASFP Competence Hub

TG10 discussed how competence is measured across fire door design, specification, procurement, installation and maintenance stages.

Members were encouraged to review internal competence records and use the ASFP Competence Hub as a resource.

The association said that feedback on training and pathways would be used to guide development of future resources.

Regulatory change and product testing discussed

The ASFP reported that TG10 reviewed proposals from the Construction Products Reform Green Paper, including the idea of digital product passports and stricter third-party certification.

The group also considered the regulatory treatment of internal versus external fire doors and the need for interpretable test data that protects proprietary information.

It was noted that oversight from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is increasing in the fire door and ironmongery sectors.

Next steps for TG10

TG10 will meet again in early July 2025, the ASFP said.

Members were encouraged to submit agenda items and provide feedback on projects such as the Colour Book and training initiatives.

The association is also considering a webinar series to support wider communication on these topics.

Fire doors training, regulation and competence discussed at UK ASFP TG10 meeting: Summary

The ASFP reported that TG10 met in May 2025.

TG10 reviewed progress on the Colour Book and podcast plans.

A draft advisory note on nominal and notional fire doors is being finalised.

Kate Milford led a discussion on competence-led safety approaches.

The ASFP said the Building Safety Act is influencing new frameworks.

SLG12, chaired by David Marah, is helping align sector knowledge.

TG10 highlighted training gaps in procurement and product selection.

Members were encouraged to engage with the ASFP Competence Hub.

The group discussed reforms to product testing and certification.

The Construction Products Reform Green Paper was reviewed.

TG10 noted increased OPSS attention to the fire door sector.

The next TG10 meeting is scheduled for early July 2025.

Feedback and agenda submissions were requested from members.

A webinar series is being explored by the ASFP communications team.

ASSA ABLOY expands EMEIA fire door business with acquisition of Door System

by Featured NewsFire DoorsPassive

ASSA ABLOY to acquire Denmark’s Door System in second quarter of 2025

ASSA ABLOY has reported that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Door System, a fire-rated door manufacturer based in Hørning, Denmark.

The company stated that the acquisition will support its core business by adding complementary products and sector-specific solutions, particularly for the pharmaceutical, food and retail sectors.

Door System was established in 1998 and employs around 80 people.

According to ASSA ABLOY, Door System achieved sales of approximately MDKK 125 (around MSEK 190) in 2024.

The company said the transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings per share from the outset and is scheduled to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to standard closing conditions.

Door System to join EMEIA Division following acquisition

ASSA ABLOY confirmed that Door System will become part of its Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA) Division once the acquisition is completed.

Neil Vann, Executive Vice President of ASSA ABLOY and Head of the EMEIA Division, said: “I am delighted that Door System will join the EMEIA Division.

“Their strong expertise in high-quality fire rated doors aligns well to our door segment vision, providing exceptional combined fire-rated, freezer and hygienic door solutions across industries through focus on innovation and excellence.

“We welcome the team at Door System to the ASSA ABLOY family.”

ASSA ABLOY added that Door System’s manufacturing site and headquarters will remain in Hørning.

Acquisition strengthens ASSA ABLOY’s fire-rated door segment

ASSA ABLOY President and CEO Nico Delvaux said the move supports the company’s overall strategy.

He said: “I am very pleased to welcome Door System to ASSA ABLOY.

“This acquisition delivers on our strategy to add complementary products and solutions to our core business.”

The manufacturer explained that Door System’s expertise in specialised fire door solutions will enhance ASSA ABLOY’s existing capabilities in the EMEIA market.

The company noted that the acquisition adds value across multiple industries through focused product offerings.

Denmark-based Door System brings sector-specific expertise

ASSA ABLOY stated that Door System’s operations are particularly focused on doors used in regulated and controlled environments.

Its fire-rated and hygienic doors are used extensively in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food processing and retail.

The company noted that Door System’s product portfolio and industry focus complement its existing offerings in these markets.

ASSA ABLOY confirmed that integration planning will begin once the acquisition receives regulatory clearance.

ASSA ABLOY expands EMEIA fire door business with acquisition of Door System: Summary

ASSA ABLOY has agreed to acquire Danish fire door manufacturer Door System.

Door System is based in Hørning, Denmark and employs approximately 80 people.

The company had 2024 sales of around MDKK 125, equivalent to roughly MSEK 190.

ASSA ABLOY said the acquisition is expected to be accretive to earnings per share immediately.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.

It is expected to be finalised during the second quarter of 2025.

ASSA ABLOY stated that Door System will join its EMEIA Division.

The company said the move aligns with its strategy to enhance core offerings.

Door System specialises in fire-rated and hygienic doors for pharmaceutical, food and retail sectors.

ASSA ABLOY confirmed Door System will retain its factory and headquarters in Denmark.

The company said planning for integration will follow completion of the deal.

JELD-WEN achieves BM Trada Q Mark certification for fire doorsets in the UK

by Featured NewsFire DoorsPassive

JELD-WEN expands certified fire doorset manufacturing

JELD-WEN has obtained BM Trada Q Mark certification, enabling the company to expand its production of certified internal fire doorsets.

The UKAS-verified certification confirms that JELD-WEN’s fire doorsets comply with independent third-party certification standards.

As part of this process, the company has designated an area of its Sheffield manufacturing plant specifically for producing BM Trada Q Mark certified fire doors.

The facility will process a wider selection of door cores, allowing for customisation with different finishes, colours, glazing options, and hardware to meet project requirements.

Third-party certification supports expanded product range

JELD-WEN already manufactures its own fire doorsets.

With BM Trada Q Mark certification, it can now fabricate components and parts for other certified manufacturers, ensuring the certification extends to the final product.

This accreditation adds to JELD-WEN’s existing compliance with Certifire and Certisecure standards.

It allows the company to offer an expanded range of doorsets while meeting third-party testing requirements.

Sheffield facility dedicated to certified fire doors

JELD-WEN allocated space within its Sheffield manufacturing plant to focus on BM Trada Q Mark certified fire doors.

The facility is designed to ensure that products meet the required certification standards throughout production.

The site will allow for processing doors with various specifications, including different cores and finishes, to meet diverse project needs.

First certified doorsets produced within nine months

JELD-WEN secured BM Trada Q Mark certification within nine months, with the first certified fire doorsets coming off the production line at the end of January.

Glyn Hauser, Engineering and Innovation Manager at JELD-WEN UK, said: “At JELD-WEN we pride ourselves on achieving the highest safety standards when manufacturing fire doorsets and the gold standard in demonstrating this is through third-party verification.”

Hauser added: “BM Trada upholds the very highest standards across the supply chain.

“By becoming a verified member of the scheme, JELD-WEN can now work with other suppliers also holding BM Trada certification to deliver a wider range of products to meet varied specifications.”

JELD-WEN achieves BM Trada Q Mark certification for fire doorsets in the UK: Summary

JELD-WEN has secured BM Trada Q Mark certification, allowing the UK manufacturer to expand its fire doorset production.

The certification verifies compliance with third-party certification standards.

A section of JELD-WEN’s Sheffield manufacturing plant has been designated for producing BM Trada Q Mark certified fire doors.

This will enable the company to process a wider variety of door cores with different finishes, glazing, and hardware options.

With the certification, JELD-WEN can now fabricate components and parts for other BM Trada Q Mark certified manufacturers.

The company also complies with Certifire and Certisecure standards.

JELD-WEN obtained BM Trada Q Mark certification within nine months, and the first certified fire doorsets were produced in January.

Engineering and Innovation Manager Glyn Hauser stated that the certification allows the company to work with other certified suppliers to provide a broader range of products.

Allegion to showcase fire door solutions at The Fire Safety Event 2025

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Doors

Allegion UK to present complete fire door solution at Birmingham event

Allegion UK has announced its participation in The Fire Safety Event 2025, taking place from 8-10 April at the NEC, Birmingham.

The company, alongside its portfolio of door hardware brands, will showcase a range of fire door solutions designed for safety and compliance.

Allegion will exhibit a flagship selection of architectural hardware, fire and smoke seals, vision panels, and an intumescent fire block louvre system.

The company’s stand (4/K106) will feature three full-sized door models, each displaying tested and certified products for timber and steel fire doors.

Allegion’s fire door hardware and safety demonstration

Visitors to Allegion’s stand will be able to view and interact with various fire door solutions designed to demonstrate the importance of correct specification, installation, and maintenance.

The exhibition will also include a working model of the XB120 automatic door operator from Boss Door Controls.

According to Allegion, the XB120 is available in seven finishes, including ‘Light Bronze’ and ‘Matt Black’, to complement different architectural styles.

The company states that its fire door safety solutions are intended to offer comprehensive compliance support.

Allegion UK’s commitment to fire safety education

Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Fire doors are a key element of passive fire protection, and in the event of a fire, it’s crucial that essential door hardware has been expertly specified, correctly installed and properly maintained.”

Hancox added that the company is focused on addressing knowledge gaps in fire door safety: “As part of our ongoing campaign to raise awareness, we’re delighted to return to The Fire Safety Event, as it provides the perfect platform to offer valuable expertise and support to a key audience.”

Live demonstrations and expert advice

During the event, Allegion’s team will provide real-time installation advice and live demonstrations of its self-adhesive Accufit system.

The company states that recent enhancements to the system aim to simplify the installation of Briton door closers.

The Fire Safety Event brings together industry professionals, practitioners, and organisations to discuss fire safety management and compliance.

The event features a range of exhibitors showcasing the latest products and technology in the sector.

Allegion to showcase fire door solutions at The Fire Safety Event 2025: Summary

Allegion UK will participate in The Fire Safety Event 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham, from 8-10 April.

The company will present a full range of fire door solutions, including architectural hardware, fire and smoke seals, vision panels, and an intumescent fire block louvre system.

Allegion will also display the XB120 automatic door operator from Boss Door Controls and provide hands-on demonstrations of its Accufit system for Briton door closers.

Country manager Pete Hancox said the company aims to raise awareness about fire door specification, installation, and maintenance.

The Fire Safety Event provides a platform for fire safety professionals to explore new products and technologies.

More details about the event and registration information are available at www.firesafetyevent.com.

FDM marks first anniversary with over 600 professionals trained in fire door safety

by Featured NewsFire DoorsTraining

FDM’s first year in fire door safety training

FDM, the fire door training division of UAP Ltd, has marked its first anniversary after training over 600 industry professionals since its launch in 2024.

The organisation has provided training in fire door awareness, inspection, installation, and maintenance.

More than 350 professionals completed fire door awareness or inspection training, while over 200 developed hands-on skills in installation, repair, and maintenance.

FDM was founded to address the need for structured fire door training following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

It has since partnered with over 50 industry suppliers, including Falcon Timber, GGF, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, IG Doors, Sentry, Strongdor, and NorDan.

Industry feedback and recognition

Learner feedback has shown positive engagement with FDM’s training.

According to participant responses:

  • 92% found the practical sessions relevant.
  • 94% reported the content was clear and easy to understand.
  • 95% described the training as engaging.

In 2024, FDM was named “Training and Development Company of the Year” at the NFA Awards, recognising its contributions to fire safety education.

Future developments and expansion

FDM is preparing to expand its offerings in 2025.

The organisation will launch a new app at the Fire Safety Event to help professionals ensure compliance when installing and maintaining fire doors.

Additionally, an online training platform will be introduced, allowing professionals to book courses and access CPD-accredited training remotely.

Managing Director comments on progress

Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM, said: “This year has been a journey of collaboration and innovation.

“Every learner who steps into our training centre – from contractors to builders’ merchants – reinforces the importance of what we’re doing.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the foundation we’ve built for FDM, and we have a lot in store for the industry this year.”

FDM marks first anniversary with over 600 professionals trained in fire door safety: Summary

FDM, the fire door training division of UAP Ltd, has completed its first year, training over 600 industry professionals.

More than 350 professionals undertook fire door awareness or inspection training, while over 200 received hands-on experience in installation, repair, and maintenance.

FDM was established to meet industry demand for structured fire door training following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

It has collaborated with over 50 industry suppliers to enhance its training programmes.

Feedback from participants has been positive, with high ratings for practical relevance, clarity, and engagement.

In 2024, FDM won the “Training and Development Company of the Year” award at the NFA Awards.

Looking ahead, FDM will launch an app at the Fire Safety Event to support compliance in fire door installation and maintenance.

A new online training platform will also be introduced to expand access to CPD-accredited courses.

Allegion UK releases new installation videos for Briton door closers

by Featured NewsPassiveTraining

New installation guides for Briton door closers

Allegion UK has introduced new installation videos for its Briton 2003 and 2003V surface-mounted door closers.

The video series provides detailed instructions on door mount pull, transom mount, and parallel arm mount fixings.

The guides are designed to improve installation accuracy by showcasing the fitting process from unboxing to final adjustments using Briton’s self-adhesive Accufit template system.

Additional video support planned for Briton 2130B

Allegion UK has confirmed plans to expand the library with installation videos for the Briton 2130B overhead closer.

This update will complement existing support materials, including technical datasheets, product certifications, fixing templates, and downloadable service and maintenance instructions.

Allegion UK highlights fire door safety concerns

John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Where the safety of buildings and their occupants is reliant on fire door hardware, we too often identify inaccurate installation as a leading cause for inadequate product performance.”

He added: “In order to prioritise fire safety, we believe it’s crucial to eliminate the issues associated with incorrect hardware installation, and in adding short and engaging video content to our resources, we can further support our customers in this area.”

Accufit template system updated for Briton 2130B

Allegion UK has also introduced an updated Accufit template for the Briton 2130B.

Fairhurst stated: “Driven by our ongoing commitment to improving fire door safety standards, and following the success of our updated Accufit system for the 2003 and 2003V, we have also developed a new Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which is available now and will feature in a standalone series of installation videos set to launch later this year.”

Allegion UK releases new installation videos for Briton door closers: Summary

Allegion UK has expanded its installation support materials with new videos covering the Briton 2003 and 2003V surface-mounted door closers.

The video series provides step-by-step instructions to improve installation accuracy using Briton’s Accufit template system.

The company plans to extend its video library to include installation guidance for the Briton 2130B overhead closer.

This will complement existing digital resources such as technical datasheets, certifications, fixing templates, and maintenance instructions.

John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, said incorrect installation is a common cause of poor fire door hardware performance.

He highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting customers with additional digital resources.

Allegion UK has also introduced an updated Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which will feature in a new video series launching later in the year.

GQA-accredited fire safety course launched by Fire Door Maintenance for UK responsible persons

by Featured NewsFire DoorsTraining

Fire Door Maintenance launches accredited course on fire safety responsibilities

Fire Door Maintenance, a division of UAP Ltd, has introduced a new course titled ‘Responsible Persons,’ accredited by GQA.

Aimed at individuals tasked with fire safety in residential and commercial buildings, the course addresses widespread gaps in fire safety knowledge, as reported by several recent industry analyses.

The initiative is designed to clarify fire safety legislation and duties to help responsible persons better navigate compliance requirements.

According to the course details, participants will study key fire safety regulations, including the Fire Safety Order 2005, Fire Safety Act 2021, and Fire Safety Regulations 2022.

The curriculum provides essential information to ensure that attendees understand their obligations under UK fire safety laws and can effectively manage fire risks in their buildings.

Course location and practical training details

The ‘Responsible Persons’ course is held at Fire Door Maintenance’s training facility in Bury, Greater Manchester, noted as the UK’s first dedicated fire door training academy.

This in-person training offers practical insights for participants, allowing them to engage with the material in a setting designed to facilitate comprehensive learning and discussion.

The course’s structure emphasises practical application, ensuring that attendees can apply their learning to real-world scenarios.

Through this hands-on approach, the course aims to build confidence in fire safety compliance and the maintenance of fire doors.

Certification and industry recognition

This course is fully accredited by GQA, a recognised awarding body known for its quality standards in the UK fire safety sector.

Participants who complete the course will receive an accredited certification, acknowledging their competence in fire safety management and legal compliance.

The certification from GQA is intended to reflect a participant’s understanding and ability to implement fire safety requirements.

Fire Door Maintenance’s partnership with GQA underscores the company’s aim to provide industry-standard training for those responsible for fire safety in various building environments.

FDM’s response to industry challenges

Nicola John, Managing Director at Fire Door Maintenance, stated that the course was developed in response to recurring issues reported by individuals tasked with fire safety compliance.

She said: “The course is a direct response to the recurring feedback that the responsible person in an organisation often struggles to interpret and act on fire safety legislation.

“By delivering clear and comprehensive training, FDM aims to close the loop on information sharing within the fire safety industry, ensuring that a company’s responsible person is empowered to carry out their duties confidently and competently.”

By offering this course, Fire Door Maintenance aims to equip responsible persons with the necessary skills and knowledge to address fire safety compliance effectively, benefiting both residential and commercial sectors.

GQA-accredited fire safety course launched by Fire Door Maintenance for UK responsible persons: Summary

Fire Door Maintenance, under UAP Ltd, has launched the GQA-accredited ‘Responsible Persons’ course to improve fire safety compliance in the UK.

This course addresses knowledge gaps in fire safety laws, including the Fire Safety Order 2005, Fire Safety Act 2021, and Fire Safety Regulations 2022, to support responsible persons in both residential and commercial buildings.

Held at Fire Door Maintenance’s training academy in Greater Manchester, this in-person course aims to build attendees’ knowledge on managing fire safety responsibilities effectively.

Participants completing the course will receive certification from GQA, verifying their competence in fire safety management.

The course reflects industry feedback, as explained by Managing Director Nicola John, and provides essential training to help those responsible for fire safety meet legal and regulatory

Warringtonfire announced as official fire door partner for FIREX 2024 in London

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Doors

Warringtonfire promotes fire door safety at FIREX

Warringtonfire, part of the Element Materials Technology group, will participate in FIREX as the official fire door partner, promoting the importance of proper specification and installation of fire doorsets.

FIREX, taking place from 2–4 December at ExCeL London, is one of the major fire safety events in the UK, where industry professionals gather to discuss advancements in fire safety.

Warringtonfire will exhibit its expertise in fire door testing and certification at stand FI1840.

The organisation emphasises the need for careful attention to detail when working with fire doorsets, acknowledging their role in maintaining building safety standards.

Technical session on fire and smoke doorsets

Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager at Element Materials Technology, will lead a session on 3 December from 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

His presentation, titled “Importance of Fire Resisting and Smoke Control Doorsets and EN Classification,” will cover key distinctions between the European classification system (EN 13501-2) and British Standards (BS 476: Part 22 and BS 476: Part 31.1), as well as their applications in building safety.

In his statement, Barker noted the importance of fire-resisting doorsets, saying: “Fire resisting and smoke control doorsets have an important life safety role to play within buildings, by restricting the spread of fire and smoke through the building and safeguarding the means of escape.”

He pointed out the challenges in specifying doorsets due to fragmented supporting evidence, which often complicates compliance with building regulations.

Warringtonfire’s commitment to clarity in fire doorset specification

Barker explained that with the European classification system set to become the sole standard in Approved Document B by September 2029, understanding this system will be essential for specifiers and manufacturers in England.

He stated: “Our aim is to demystify these building products and give clarity on how to provide added assurance on the products performance from testing through to manufacture, installation and ongoing maintenance.”

Warringtonfire’s participation at FIREX reflects its commitment to raising awareness around fire doorset performance standards, aiming to ensure they achieve tested levels of fire resistance and smoke control when correctly specified and installed.

Interactive features and new facility showcase

Visitors to the Warringtonfire stand will also have the chance to speak with technical and certification experts about their projects and objectives.

The stand will feature a series of “Tech Talks,” presenting on topics such as third-party certification and the impact of regulatory changes on fire safety.

Additionally, Warringtonfire will display a video tour of its new fire resistance testing laboratory at its 104,000 sq ft site in Birchwood Park.

The facility, scheduled to open on 2 January 2025, includes an interactive display detailing its testing capabilities and the advancements it offers for fire safety testing.

Warringtonfire announced as official fire door partner for FIREX 2024 in London: Summary

Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology, will serve as the official fire door partner at FIREX, taking place from 2–4 December at ExCeL London.

The organisation aims to underscore the importance of correctly specifying and installing fire doorsets.

Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager, will present on the role of fire-resisting and smoke control doorsets, comparing European and British standards.

The session, scheduled for 3 December, will provide insights into the EN classification system, which will become the standard for fire performance assessment in England by 2029.

Visitors can engage with Warringtonfire’s experts and view presentations on fire safety standards.

The company’s stand will also showcase its soon-to-open testing laboratory at Birchwood Park, set to provide expanded fire resistance testing capabilities from January 2025.