The Door Industry Journal

New RIBA-approved CPD explores why door hinge specification deserves more attention

2026-10-06T11:00:00.000+01:00

Hinges account for only a small proportion of the cost of a typical door assembly, yet they play a critical role in how doors perform throughout their lifespan.

A new RIBA-approved CPD from hinge specialists SIMONSWERK explores the factors that influence hinge specification, helping architects understand how considerations such as door properties, applied hardware, environment and fire safety requirements can all affect hinge selection.

"Specifying Door Hinges: Balancing Design, Performance and Compliance" covers two RIBA core curriculum areas, legal, regulatory and statutory compliance, and design, construction and technology.

The CPD provides a practical framework that architects can use to support early design decisions and discussions with specialist suppliers. The presentation also includes project examples to demonstrate how hinge specification responds to different architectural requirements.

Commenting on the new CPD, Andrew Kite, Managing Director at SIMONSWERK UK, said: "The aim of this CPD is to give architects greater confidence when approaching hinge specification, helping them understand the key influencing factors, ask the right questions early and make more informed decisions."

The session runs for approximately 45 minutes and is available in person at your practice or online. For details or to book, contact cpd@simonswerk.co.uk or visit uk.simonswerk.com/en/architecture/riba-approved-cpd

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Marantec Gives You More: Customer Service

2026-10-05T10:00:00.000+01:00

As installers face increasingly demanding schedules, tighter turnaround times and customers who expect problems to be resolved quickly, the support behind an automation product can be every bit as important as the product itself.

That is why Marantec UK is continuing to develop a more complete support offering, bringing together 24/7 digital technical guidance, an expanding library of practical video resources, direct access to experienced people and, most significantly, a new level of commitment behind its Garage Door Operator range.

The principle is simple: give customers more than the product.

A New Commitment to Garage Door Operators

Marantec’s Garage Door Operators are premium German-engineered products designed around reliability and long-term performance.

Now, Marantec UK is adding another layer of reassurance for customers.

For the first year, following installation, if an eligible Marantec Garage Door Operator develops a qualifying product fault, Marantec UK is introducing a commitment to attend site and resolve the problem within 24 hours.

Eleven members of the Marantec UK team have been trained to support the initiative, with dedicated equipment carried within their vehicles to help ensure they have what they need when attending a customer site.

The objective is not simply to inspect the problem and leave.

Where the commitment applies, the intention is that the engineer does not leave the customer with a broken garage door. If the operator cannot be repaired, the team will be equipped to replace it and restore operation.

It represents a significant commitment behind a product Marantec UK already believes strongly in.

The new one-year support commitment sits alongside the existing five-year product warranty, creating an additional layer of reassurance during the crucial first year of operation.

For installers, it means being able to supply a premium product knowing there is a UK team prepared to stand behind it if something does go wrong.

Paul Connor is proud to launch this support initiative: “We know our customers put their own reputation on the line every time they recommend and install a product. If they choose a Marantec Garage Door Operator, we want them to know that we are standing behind that decision too. We have confidence in the product, but customer service is about what you do when something unexpected happens. Our aim is simple: never leave a customer worrying about a garage door operator that is out of action.”

Technical Support, 24 Hours a Day

Not every technical query requires someone to attend site.

Marantec UK has also expanded the ways engineers can access technical guidance through Lingo, its automated 24/7 support assistant available directly through WhatsApp.

Engineers can start a conversation from their phone, select the relevant product and explain the problem they are experiencing.

Lingo uses Marantec UK’s technical documentation and approved support materials to provide step-by-step guidance around installation, configuration and troubleshooting. It can support questions involving areas such as limit setting, wiring, photocells, safety edges, error codes and commissioning.

Crucially, the conversation does not have to remain automated.

If a question requires more detailed assistance, the engineer can request support from a member of the Marantec UK Technical team. The information already provided is passed across with the enquiry, helping the Technical team understand the issue without asking the customer to start again.

It creates a support journey that can begin at any hour of the day and move to experienced human support when required.

Answers Before You Need to Ask

Another important part of the support strategy is helping customers find answers themselves.

Marantec UK continues to expand its YouTube channel with practical FAQ and tutorial videos covering products from across the range.

The aim is to create a growing technical library that engineers can access on site, in the workshop or before beginning an installation.

The official Marantec UK channel already includes guidance covering areas such as Garage Door Operators, Tube Motors and control panels, with content focused on installation, configuration, maintenance and troubleshooting.

These videos sit alongside the wider Product Support area of the Marantec UK website, where customers can access instruction manuals, datasheets, technical documentation, FAQs and training information.

Rather than expecting an engineer to search through multiple sources when a question arises, the objective is to make practical information increasingly easy to find.

Support in the Way Customers Need It

Digital resources are valuable, but they do not replace people.

Marantec UK continues to provide direct technical support alongside free product training, with training available across the products it supplies. The company’s website also positions customer support as extending from the initial enquiry through to product selection and installation.

Together, these different levels of support create a much broader proposition:

• 24/7 guidance when an engineer needs an immediate answer.

• Video FAQs when they want to see how something is done.

• Technical documentation when detailed product information is required.

• Experienced people when a problem needs individual support.

• And now, for Garage Door Operators, a new commitment designed to provide reassurance when it matters most.

More Than Automation

Reliable products will always remain fundamental to Marantec UK.

But as customer expectations continue to evolve, the businesses that stand out will increasingly be those prepared to support customers beyond the point of sale.

For Marantec UK, that means combining premium automation products with accessible technical knowledge, practical training, digital support and people who are prepared to take responsibility when customers need help.

The product opens the door, but the support behind it is what builds the relationship.

Marantec UK gives you more+.

www.marantec.co.uk

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A Fire Door Framework: Why Every Component Counts

2026-10-04T09:00:00.000+01:00

Passive fire protection and fire door hardware are intrinsically linked. Fire doors are tested as a complete assembly of certified hardware components, with performance relying on the coordination of each individual ironmongery product.

This crucial partnership is designed to contain fire and smoke when it matters most. However, even a seemingly minor fault - whether a loose hinge, damaged seal or an incorrectly adjusted door closer - can compromise the performance of an entire fire door assembly. If one element fails, the safety of a building and its occupants is put at risk.

Iain Banks of Allegion UK provides a detailed guide on the functional hardware behind fire doors, exploring how each component plays a vital role in protecting people, property and compliance.

Door Furniture

“An appropriate handle is fundamental to the safe operation of a fire door. Where decorative hardware may suit an aesthetically driven application, fire doors are functional, and as such, door furniture should prioritise durability, practicality and ease of operation. There are two common handle types found on fire doors. Lever handles are typically fixed to latched fire doors, providing intuitive operation from either side of the door. Pull handles on the other hand, are generally used on unlatched doors and are particularly useful on larger, heavier fire doors where they are often paired with push plates.

“Specification aside, door furniture must always remain securely fixed, with handles operating smoothly and returning freely to a horizontal position after use. Loose, damaged or missing handles can prevent the latch from engaging correctly, compromising the door’s ability to provide effective compartmentalisation. To improve the durability of handles, bolt-through fixings are recommended as they secure the furniture through the door and the lock or latch case, reducing the likelihood of screws moving or loosening over time. Always remember, by securing installations this way, the door leaf is penetrated, and so, each fixing and component must be suitably fire-rated and compatible with the certified door assembly to maintain performance.”

Hinges

“Fire door hinges perform one of the most demanding roles within the assembly by facilitating the necessary pivot action that provides movement to the door. To support the height and weight of a standard fire door, most timber assemblies require the installation of at least three certified hinges, with each positioned on the vertical edge of the door leaf and frame. For larger, heavier doors standing over 2.2 metres tall, a fourth hinge may be necessary.

“In order to withstand frequent opening and closing cycles, accurate installation and regular maintenance is essential here. Each hinge must be present with all fixings secured using the correct screws supplied or specified by the manufacturer. Should a fire door become difficult to operate, it’s important to check hinges for loose screws, signs of metal fragments or excessive oil leakage, all of which may indicate signs of wear. When damaged hinges are identified, they must be replaced with like-for-like certified products, with CE, UKCA or BS EN 1935 marks present and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.”

Door Closers

“Door closers also play a central role in the movement of fire doors and are often regarded as one of most critical life-saving devices in passive fire protection. Typically fixed to the top face of the door leaf, concealed inside a mortised pocket or built into the floor beneath the door pivot point, door closers provide the controlled closing action that ensures a fire door has reliably closed after every use. Controlled opening speeds also help to minimise a fire door’s misuse by reducing impact damage. Such is their importance to fire door safety, closers are required on all flat entrance doors and fire doors located on escape routes.

“Should a fire door fail to close and engage with the latch successfully, it may be that the closer has been incorrectly installed or damaged and, therefore, needs correcting or replacing. In some cases, a door closer may have been inappropriately adjusted or even mistakenly - or purposely - disconnected, completely invalidating the reliability and fire rating of the door assembly. Routine inspections should confirm that the door closer is present, is securely fixed and shows no signs of damage that may be stopping the door from closing from any open position. When checking the condition of a door closer, the door should close and engage the latch as intended when released from an approximate angle of 5° or 75mm.”

Locks, Latches and Cylinders

“Where door closers are responsible for returning the door to its closed position, locks and latches make sure it remains securely closed. This is critical in a fire situation, where certified fire doors can keep fire and smoke at bay for 30 or 60 minutes - when rated FD30 or FD60 respectively. Both locks and latches should always be fire tested as part of the complete door assembly. In fact, removing latches or replacing them with products that have not been tested can invalidate certification and compromise fire door integrity.

“When it comes to routine maintenance, it’s important to check for sticking mechanisms, misaligned strike plates and metal dust deposits, which are typically located on the latch bolt or strike plate, and could represent high levels of wear or damage. The latch must engage fully into the strike plate and hold the door firmly in place every time it closes. Where a lock incorporates a cylinder, that too must be compatible with the tested lockcase and operate smoothly without excessive resistance. A cylinder should be considered part of the fire door assembly, with incompatible hardware potentially affecting both fire performance and security, and as such, replacements should always be supported by suitable test evidence.”

Hold-open and exit devices

“Hold-open and exit devices are specialised hardware components that provide safe, single-action egress on fire doors. An electromagnetic hold-open device can legally hold open fire doors, allowing for a greater flow of movement in high traffic areas, whilst being primed to automatically release the door when its connected fire alarm system is activated. These devices should be tested to BS EN 1155. It’s also important to recognise that using wedges or other improvised methods to hold open a fire door is unlawful and dangerous. Should an electromagnetic hold-open device not release the door when a fire alarm is activated, a problem may have occurred, such as the door straining against its self-closing device upon operation.

“Panic and emergency exit devices are designed to provide safe and rapid escape with minimum effort. As such, devices must be securely fitted and functioning correctly at all times to ensure reliable operation at any given moment. Poor maintenance and unsuitable hardware replacements are common issues and can affect the mechanical operation of a system, and therefore the door. Emergency exit devices and panic exit devices must comply with BS EN 179 and BS EN 1125 respectively, together with appropriate UKCA and CE marking. This way, fire doors can efficiently maintain the balance of rapid evacuation when open and dependable protection against fire and smoke when closed.

Intumescent and smoke seals

“Intumescent seals are concealed around the frame or door leaf and whilst going largely unnoticed during the operation of a door, they spring into immediate, critical action during a fire. When exposed to the high temperatures of fire, intumescent seals will expand significantly, and in doing so, they close the gap between the door leaf and frame, creating an effective barrier against smoke and fire.

“Smoke seals provide additional protection by restricting the passage of smoke before temperatures become high enough for intumescent seals to activate. The inhaling of smoke is one of greatest risks to life in the event of a fire and so, over time, seals should be regularly inspected for damage. Excessive gaps between the side of the door and the frame could remove any compartmentalisation efforts. With this in mind, a maximum gap of 3mm is recommended around all fire doors, whilst ensuring both intumescent and smoke seals remain intact and undamaged. Simply put, seals are an essential element of fire door safety.”

Fire Door Signage

“Fire door signage is often the final piece of the compliance puzzle. ‘Fire Door Keep Shut’, ‘Automatic Fire Door Keep Clear’ and ‘Fire Exit Keep Clear’ signs are mandatory on all fire doors in the UK as per the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. They provide clear instructions to a building’s occupants and visitors and as a result, must remain present, legible, undamaged and appropriate for the door’s function.”

www.allegion.com

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Industry First: DHF Launches a funded apprenticeship, NVQ qualification and training package for its members

2026-10-03T09:00:00.000+01:00

Launched on 1 September 2026, the Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship Maintenance Pathway) is being delivered by DHF in partnership with Train'd Up. It provides DHF members with a structured route to recruit, train and retain engineers, while incorporating the recognised NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Specialist Installation Occupations (Construction) – Door, Shutter, Gate or Barrier Installation, Maintenance or Repair and a choice of one of the DHF Level 2 theory-based Safety qualifications relevant to their sector.

For DHF members, the financial case is compelling. Eligible employers can save up to £11,300 per apprentice, making it significantly more affordable to recruit, train and develop the next generation of skilled engineers. By combining apprenticeship funding with an industry-recognised NVQ and specialist DHF training, the programme removes much of the financial burden from employers while providing a clear pathway to developing competent, qualified people with the skills the industry needs.

The package has been negotiated specifically for DHF members and brings together the apprenticeship, NVQ and DHF training, with a combined value of £11,300+ VAT per apprentice. So, members are potentially getting the NVQ and DHF training for FREE

For levy-registered members and those aged under 25, the package can be fully funded. For candidates aged over 25, employers contribute 5% towards the apprenticeship cost only.

A route into the industry

The apprenticeship is intended to support both employers looking to bring new people into the sector and businesses seeking to develop existing employees. It is suitable for school and college leavers, new entrants, employees moving into engineering maintenance roles and existing staff undertaking substantial new learning.

It can also support people already working in installation, servicing and maintenance environments. The programme runs for approximately 12 to 18 months and combines tutor-led online learning with practical, workplace-based development and assessment.

Apprentices spend one day a week undertaking online learning with specialist engineering tutors, while their practical skills are developed and assessed in the workplace. This combination means apprentices are not simply gaining theoretical knowledge but are able to apply what they learn in a real working environment, building the skills and experience required for their role.

Train’d Ups, Chief Commercial Officer, Jamie McVey said, “The door, gate and shutter industry faces many of the same challenges we see across engineering more broadly: an ageing workforce, increasing skills shortages and a need to attract and develop the next generation of skilled professionals. Working alongside DHF, we have been able to bring together a unique package that provides members with access to high-quality engineering training while also incorporating the specialist occupational competence and safety qualifications that are so important to the sector.”

Combining engineering and sector competence

The programme brings together five elements: the Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship (Maintenance Pathway), the EAL Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations (Knowledge), the EAL Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations (Skills), the NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Specialist Installation Occupations (Construction) – Door, Shutter, Gate or Barrier Installation, Maintenance or Repair and a fully accredited DHF Level 2 qualification of the learners’ choice, all in one package at no additional cost.

The NOCN qualification remains the recognised competence qualification for the sector. It is delivered through DHF, and based on workplace competence, with apprentices demonstrating their abilities through real installation and maintenance activities. The qualification also provides the recognised route to applying for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker card, allowing individuals to work independently on a construction site.

The specialist pathway covers areas including servicing and maintaining systems, commissioning activities and the installation of door, gate and shutter systems, alongside repair and maintenance activities. For employers, this provides a way to develop engineering capability while maintaining the occupational competence standards already recognised within the sector.

Supporting employers as well as apprentices

DHF members also have access to a free apprentice recruitment service from Train'd Up. This is intended to remove one of the practical barriers to taking on an apprentice: finding suitable candidates. The service includes advertising vacancies, attracting candidates, initial screening, interview support, funding eligibility checks, onboarding and matching employers with suitable apprentices. Once an apprentice is in place, they receive ongoing support throughout the programme.

A dedicated Engineering Assessor provides workplace assessment visits every eight weeks, together with practical observations, portfolio support, coaching, mentoring and preparation for the End Point Assessment. Formal progress reviews involving the apprentice, employer and assessor take place every 12 weeks. This gives employers regular visibility of an apprentice's progress and provides opportunities to identify additional support or development needs.

The package also addresses two concerns that have made some members reluctant to send employees on the NVQ: the cost of the qualification and the risk that an employee could leave after gaining the skills and qualification. By bringing the apprenticeship, NVQ and DHF training together, the package is intended to reduce the cost for members while helping them develop and retain skilled employees.

Making use of apprenticeship funding

The programme also provides employers with access to government apprenticeship funding. Levy-paying employers can use available funds in their Apprenticeship Service Account to pay for apprenticeship training and End Point Assessment. For eligible non-levy employers, the government typically funds 95% of training costs, with potentially no employer contribution for eligible apprentices under the age of 25.

For DHF members, the funding support is complemented by the NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma and the chosen DHF Level 2 Safety qualification for those that take part in the apprenticeship, while DHF continues to provide specialist sector support.

Developing skills for the future

Apprenticeships offer far more than just an entry route for young people. For businesses within the door, gate and shutter sector, they provide a structured way to develop people with the knowledge, practical skills and occupational competence needed within the industry. The programme is not limited to the younger workforce and can also provide an opportunity for existing employees to gain new skills, recognised qualifications and a clear route to competence.

With the new programme launching in September, DHF members can use the apprenticeship route to support succession planning, develop their existing workforce or bring new talent into engineering roles. The Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship is therefore designed to help employers develop their future workforce while maintaining the recognised standards that underpin competence across the sector.

DHF members interested in recruiting a new apprentice or developing an existing employee can register their interest and arrange a meeting with Train'd Up to discuss recruitment, funding eligibility, programme start dates and onboarding.

DHF’s CEO Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens said, “For some time, our industry has recognised the need to develop the next generation of skilled engineers and create a clearer, more structured route into the sector. This new programme is a significant step forward in addressing that challenge.

“For the first time, employers can access an apprenticeship pathway that combines broader engineering skills with the specialist occupational competence our industry requires. Importantly, it brings together the apprenticeship, the recognised NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma and DHF’s sector-specific safety training within one structured programme.

“This package has been many years in the making, and over the last two years, DHF has worked with Train’d Up to bring these elements together and get this over the line for our members. We know that cost has been one of the barriers to putting employees through the NVQ, alongside the concern that an employee could leave after gaining the skills and qualification. We wanted to find a way to address both issues while giving members a practical and affordable route to develop their people.

“With apprenticeship funding covering the cost for levy-paying employers and up to 95% for eligible non-levy payers, this represents a real opportunity for businesses to invest in new and existing employees while building the skilled, competent workforce our industry will need for the future.

“The package can give members access to the NVQ and DHF training for free or for very little investment, depending on their circumstances. It is not limited to younger employees. It gives existing staff a route to recognised competence and supports businesses in retaining the skills they have invested in. I am very pleased that we have been able to negotiate this package for DHF members and believe it can help raise the standard of competence across our sector.

“We are extremely proud to have developed this programme with Train’d Up and to be able to offer DHF members a practical, almost free solution to one of the most important challenges facing our sector.”

DHF members can register their interest today: https://bit.ly/3UZUxyc

Find out more about the programme: https://bit.ly/4qIdQbn

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Durable and Hygienic Double Action Doors from Hörmann UK

2026-10-02T11:00:00.000+01:00

Hörmann UK offers a range of durable and hygienic double action doors designed for fast, easy access in high-traffic environments such as food production, cold storage, retail, and logistics facilities.

Manufactured in four material choices, polyethylene (PE500), stainless steel, scratch-resistant HPL compact board, or wood - the doors offer robust performance, long service life, and excellent resistance to impact and wear. Available in single or double leaf configurations and a wide choice of colours and finishes, they can be tailored to suit a variety of operational and design requirements.

Engineered for performance and hygiene the double action doors are resistant to moisture, acids, and alkalis. They perform reliably in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +60°C, making them suitable for use in both chilled and ambient environments. Each door is fitted with shock-proof, maintenance-free stainless steel hinges that ensure a long service life, with the option of 180° or 360° hinges to allow flexible, full-width access and ease of movement for personnel and vehicles such as forklifts.

The PE500 model is constructed from 15mm moulded polyethylene, offering exceptional impact resistance — ideal for areas with high traffic and frequent equipment contact. Available in thirteen standard colour options and three special finishes, including Traffic Red and RAL colours of choice, the PE door can be further customised with glazing options, impact absorber profiles, and finger guards.

The newly introduced HPL compact board door offers the same technical capabilities as the PE version. With a 15mm thick door leaf and enhanced scratch resistance, it is available in 14 contemporary colours and finishes. The wood version provides a high-quality natural look and comes in 16 finishes, although it is not suitable for use at low-temperatures or in food-handling environments.

For more design-focused or high-spec environments such as catering outlets or food service areas, the stainless-steel version combines durability with aesthetic appeal. Featuring a 0.8mm thick stainless-steel sheet and a 40mm CFC-free PU hard foam core, this door provides excellent thermal insulation and a sleek, professional appearance in striped or circular finishes.

Installation is fast and efficient thanks to Hörmann’s pre-assembled supply system, which includes the frame, door leaf, and hinges minimising fitting time and cost. An innovative frame system ensures a stable wall connection, contributing to smooth, long-term operation. As the doors operate without power, they are virtually maintenance-free, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution for businesses focused on operational efficiency.

The versatility of Hörmann’s double action doors makes them a valuable addition to any industrial or commercial facility. They can also be combined with other Hörmann door systems to create flexible access solutions - such as TD roller shutters, fire sliding doors, or insulated sliding doors for deep-freeze or chilled areas to help maintain ambient temperatures and minimise energy loss.

www.hormann.co.uk

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Built to last: Real Doors crafts premium entrance doors with MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME

2026-10-01T11:00:00.000+01:00

Based in Derbyshire, Real Doors has built a reputation for designing and handcrafting bespoke entrance doors for discerning homeowners across the UK. Every door is made to order, combining contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship and carefully selected premium materials.

Rather than competing on volume, the business focuses on exceptional quality, specifying what designer and creative lead Vaughan Hallam describes as “the best materials available in Europe” to create entrance doors that deliver outstanding performance, longevity and visual impact.

The Challenge

For a premium entrance door manufacturer, appearance is only part of the equation. Customers expect doors that retain their crisp lines, flawless finish and smooth operation for decades, despite constant exposure to rain, moisture and changing temperatures.

Real Doors needed a material that would eliminate the risk of swelling, shrinkage and customer callbacks, while giving complete confidence that every bespoke design would continue performing exactly as intended. As Vaughan explains, “I'd rather use the best material they've got and then I've got no comebacks.”

The Solution

For the past seven years, Real Doors has relied on MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME (MTX) in 4mm, 6mm and 18mm thicknesses across its premium entrance doors. MTX is used on the internal face of traditional doors, the external face of contemporary designs and in specialist applications including Crittall-style glazing bars, glass rebates and decorative framing.

For Vaughan, the decision goes beyond durability: “MTX is a joiner's dream. It's an MDF panel that's perfectly flat, so you can route it, cut it and machine it however you like.”

The material's exceptional dimensional stability allows Real Doors to create intricate bespoke designs with complete confidence, while reducing the risk of moisture-induced damage throughout each door's service life.

Just as importantly, using MTX reinforces the company's own premium positioning: “We always build our doors from the highest quality components we can find in Europe. Using products like MTX adds value to what we do because customers know they're getting the very best.”

About MEDITE SMARTPLY

MEDITE SMARTPLY is part of the Coillte Group, an innovative, sustainably certified Irish forestry and forest products manufacturer. Based in Clonmel and Waterford, Ireland, MEDITE SMARTPLY produces a versatile range of Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) and Oriented Strand Board (OSB) products for construction and interior applications across the UK and Europe.

For further information, visit www.mdfosb.com

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What’s New? Three New Ellard Accessories Making Door Installation Simpler and Safer

2026-09-30T10:45:00.000+01:00

From faster installation to smarter safety and easier access to essential controls, Ellard is expanding its door accessories range with a trio of new solutions designed around the challenges faced by installers and manufacturers on a regular basis.

In the world of industrial doors and automation, small improvements can make a significant difference. A bracket pack that arrives ready to install can save valuable time on site. A safety system that is easier to integrate can simplify a new installation or retrofit. And having the right control components readily available can mean one less delay when a job needs to get moving.

That practical approach is behind several new additions to Ellard’s door accessories range, with the latest launches focused on three key areas: installation efficiency, safety and availability.

And with further product developments planned throughout 2026, these latest additions offer a first look at what is shaping up to be a busy year for the company.

Cutting Installation Time with the New BP-L Bracket Pack Range

For installers, time spent preparing and assembling components on site can quickly add up. Ellard’s new BP-L Bracket Pack Range, designed for JMs up to 1000Nm, has been developed to remove some of that unnecessary work.

The Full Solution Bracket Packs are supplied with pre-assembled end plates, reducing on-site assembly and helping installers get doors operational sooner.

The design also addresses a common challenge where installation space is limited. With an inboard configuration, the BP-L range is suited to applications where there is little or no side room, giving manufacturers and installers greater flexibility when specifying and fitting the system.

The attention to detail extends to the installation itself. The bracket packs are pre-drilled for straightforward fitting and supplied in an anthracite grey finish, providing a clean and consistent appearance once installed.

The result is a solution designed around a simple principle: less preparation, less assembly and more time getting the job done.

A Smarter Approach to Door Safety with the E-LC Light Curtain

As automated doors become increasingly sophisticated, safety systems need to keep pace. Ellard’s new E-LC Light Curtain Range has been introduced to provide continuous protection around automated industrial doors, shutters and curtain installations.

The compact system uses a grid of infrared beams across the door opening to detect people or objects entering the protected area. If the beam is interrupted, the system signals the door controller to stop or reverse the door, helping to protect pedestrians and reduce the potential for impact damage.

Crucially, the E-LC has been designed with installation flexibility in mind.

The emitter and receiver edges can be installed directly into guide rails or mounted to the front and rear of the door, making the system suitable for both new installations and retrofit applications.

Its intelligent blanking technology is another key feature. The system can recognise the moving door as it travels through the detection area, helping to prevent nuisance activations while maintaining continuous protection.

The range is available with protection heights of 1.8m, 2.0m and 2.5m, a maximum operating range of 10 metres and support for door speeds of up to 1.6m/s.

For installers, that combination of compact design, flexible mounting and intelligent detection provides a practical safety solution that can be integrated across a wide range of door applications.

Keeping Essential Controls Close at Hand with the Geba Master Rocker Switch

Sometimes, improving the customer experience is less about developing something entirely new and more about making the right products easier to get hold of.

That’s the thinking behind the addition of the Geba Master Rocker Switch to Ellard’s stocked range.

The 230V, 16 Amp switch provides simple, dependable control for industrial door applications, with two-way operation and a central off position. Designed for use in commercial and industrial environments, it offers straightforward operation in a robust package.

Perhaps just as importantly for installers, the switch is available for immediate dispatch.

By bringing another established industrial door control component into its stocked range, Ellard is making it easier for customers to source the products they need from a single supplier, helping to keep projects moving and minimise unnecessary delays.

www.ellard.co.uk

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Abloy’s PROTEC2 CLIQ access control system improves East Midlands Ambulance Service medicine management

2026-09-29T11:00:00.000+01:00

Abloy UK has provided East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) with its PROTEC2 CLIQ access control solution to enhance the management and security of controlled drugs across its operations. The project specification included almost 2,000 keys and approximately 600 cylinders, enabled via Wall Programming Devices.

Operating in a tightly regulated healthcare environment, EMAS is responsible for ensuring the secure handling and administration of controlled drugs within its ambulance fleet and depot facilities. With increasing compliance requirements and the need for greater accountability, EMAS recognised the necessity to upgrade from its mechanical key system to an electromechanical, auditable solution.

W.G. Pollard Security Specialists (Pollards) had previously installed 600 bespoke safes into EMAS’ emergency vehicles, and so EMAS enlisted them again to advise on this new project. Pollards, having previously worked with Abloy on similar projects, recommended the PROTEC2 CLIQ system based on its technical capabilities and suitability for EMAS’ operational needs.

Neil Hughes, Business Development Manager at Abloy UK, said: “The PROTEC2 CLIQ system was introduced to support the operational requirements of the East Midlands Ambulance Service. The solution was selected for its ability to provide physical security and real-time auditability, giving EMAS complete control and traceability across its operations.”

The upgraded solution secures drug cabinets not only in centralised depots but also within the ambulance vehicles themselves. Each staff member carries a programmable key which is authorised daily, ensuring access is granted to those who are scheduled and approved to handle the substances on a given day.

One of the advantages of the PROTEC2 CLIQ system is its ability to manage lost or stolen keys efficiently. A lost mechanical key system would mean either downtime, risk of misuse or an expensive and time-consuming replacement process. With the Abloy solution in place, compromised keys can be disabled remotely, and new ones can be issued with precise access permissions.

The deployment was conducted in two phases, the first focusing on software and Wall PD installation for central management, and the second on the delivery of safes and the installation of cylinders into drug storage units.

Peter Pollard, Director at W.G. Pollard Security Specialists, said: “Having worked with Abloy UK on a number of projects, we recommended the PROTEC2 CLIQ system based on its technical features and suitability for the environment. The system combines flexibility, auditability and ease of key management, which are particularly relevant in healthcare settings.”

For further information on products and services available from Abloy UK visit www.abloy.com, email info@abloy.co.uk or call 01902 364 500.

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Stand Out, Don't Stand Still, Urges ADSA

2026-09-28T10:00:00.000+01:00

Businesses that continue to invest in innovation, people and market visibility during periods of economic uncertainty will emerge stronger than those that retreat, according to the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA).

As organisations across the construction supply chain continue to navigate inflationary pressures, delayed investment decisions, skills shortages and evolving regulatory requirements, ADSA is encouraging the entrance systems sector to view challenging market conditions as an opportunity to innovate, strengthen customer relationships and prepare for future growth.

In a new thought leadership feature, ‘Growing Through Downturn – Leadership, Innovation and Opportunity in Challenging Markets’, ADSA Managing Director Ken Price explores how manufacturers, installers and suppliers can build resilience by focusing on long-term strategy rather than short-term pressures.

The feature examines a number of key themes shaping the sector, including the shift from selling products to delivering integrated solutions, the importance of investing in organisational culture and professional competence, and how customer insight can drive product development and innovation.

Ken Price said: "Growth doesn't stop during difficult periods. It simply requires a different approach. The businesses that emerge strongest are often those that continue to invest, adapt and focus on delivering genuine value to customers."

The article challenges businesses to resist the temptation to reduce marketing activity during periods of economic uncertainty, arguing that maintaining visibility, demonstrating expertise and providing industry leadership become even more important when customers are more selective and competition for projects intensifies.

Ken added: "One of the biggest mistakes organisations can make is disappearing from view when conditions become more difficult. Visibility creates confidence. Confidence creates opportunity."

The discussion will continue in an upcoming episode of ADSA's Tech Talk podcast, where Ken will be joined by a panel of industry leaders to explore the opportunities and challenges facing the entrance systems sector, sharing practical insight into how businesses can build resilience and drive sustainable growth in an uncertain market.

Read the full feature, here: www.adsa.org.uk/about-us/news/post/growing-through-downturn-leadership-innovation-and-opportunity-in-challenging-markets/

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Smart as Standard: Why Has the Door Industry Been Left Behind?

2026-09-27T09:00:00.000+01:00

Smart technology is everywhere, except, it seems, in the part of the home responsible for protecting everything and everyone inside it. Justin Harris shares his thoughts on smart technology and its growing role in our industry...

We control heating, lighting, appliances and security from our phones. A basic LED bulb might cost £5, yet for £7 it can offer an app, colours and dimming. Why, then, has the door industry expected homeowners to pay £500, £800 or even £1,000 more to make a door smart?

We should be brutally honest. Smart perimeter access has not been held back because homeowners cannot understand it. They use smart technology every day. It has been held back because our industry has not consistently offered the right product, confidence, simplicity, support and price.

Why has adoption remained low?

Many smart products are retrofitted or combine a device, cylinder and lock from different suppliers. Compatibility and integration are not the same. Door manufacturers and installers carry the risk of difficult setup, unreliable operation, callbacks and uncertainty over responsibility.

If they do not trust the product, they will not propose it. If they do not demonstrate the benefits, homeowners will not know why they might want it. Low adoption may reflect industry confidence, not homeowner interest.

Smart ready is not a smart door

Some doors described as smart ready have no smart capability when installed. The homeowner may buy something later, but even then, it may only monitor whether the door is open or closed.

That is “jam tomorrow”. A sensor can provide information, but it observes the door; it does not control it. It cannot necessarily lock or unlock the door, manage access or let someone enter without a key.

A smart door should provide visibility and action. Crafted Synergy is installed as a complete solution from day one, not a promise the homeowner must complete later.

Engineered as a smart doorset

A smart turner is only as effective as its lock. Many locks were never designed for motorised operation. Real doors move, bow and twist. Weather and seasonal change affect the force required. A person can compensate. A smart turner cannot.

Winkhaus did not rush another standalone product to market. AV4 and Thunderbolt accommodate the realities of a working doorset, with Polaris designed specifically around them.

We have placed doors under duress and repeatedly tested whether Polaris continues to operate. Comparative assessments with prospective customers reinforce the conclusion: the mechanical lock is critical to successful smart operation.

That is the difference between attaching smart technology to a door and engineering a smart doorset.

One complete ecosystem

Crafted Synergy combines German engineered locks, cylinder security, sensing and smart technology within one purpose designed ecosystem. The components have been dovetailed and tested together. There is no pick and mix from unrelated suppliers.

Installation, app setup and calibration are simple. Key operation remains, while the homeowner gains smart control and confirmation that the door is physically closed and locked.

Technology sits discreetly inside. Outside, the door retains its traditional appearance and compatible furniture. Smart functionality should be experienced, not displayed to the street.

The sale is not app, motor or sensor. It is children entering without keys, managed access for relatives, carers or tradespeople, and reassurance that the door is secure.

Our lifestyle videos and homeowner materials will demonstrate these real-life benefits. Customers receive the product, story and support needed to take it confidently to market.

A complete smart door for as little as £180 more

With Crafted Synergy and Polaris, the additional cost to the homeowner can be as little as £180. Over a conservative 15 year door life, that is £12 a year, £1 a month or less than 25 pence a week.

They receive mechanical security, active access, meaningful door information, simple operation and real family benefits from installation.

That is price plus: engineering, integration, testing, simplicity, immediate functionality, design freedom, homeowner benefits and marketing support at a realistic price.

Be first and lead the change

The market is difficult. That makes differentiation more important, not less. When competing doors look similar, why should homeowners choose yours?

Crafted Synergy changes that conversation. Sell how the door protects, operates and supports the way the homeowner lives. Stand out, increase value, sell more doors and improve profitability.

Innovation often wins in difficult markets. The products are ready, the benefits are clear and the additional cost is realistic.

Our challenge is simple: be first and lead the change.

Smart technology has changed the rest of the home. It is time for the door industry to catch up.

www.winkhaus.com

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New Colour Promotion for Hörmann NT60 Side Doors

2026-09-26T09:00:00.000+01:00

Hörmann UK is giving installers an added sales opportunity this autumn with the launch of a limited-time colour promotion on its popular NT60 and NT60-2 sectional garage side doors.

From now to 30th October, customers can upgrade to two of the most sought-after contemporary colours - Jet Black (RAL 9005) or Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), in either Silkgrain or Woodgrain finishes, for the same price as Traffic White (RAL 9016).

The promotion provides installers with an ideal opportunity to offer homeowners premium colour choices at no additional cost, helping to add value while meeting the growing demand for stylish, coordinated garage door solutions.

The offer is further enhanced by Hörmann's recently introduced Fast Track programme, which enables NT60 and NT60-2 sectional garage side doors to be supplied in just three to four weeks from receipt of order. Concealed hinges are also included as standard at no additional cost, delivering an even higher specification as part of the package.

Designed to complement Hörmann's range of sectional garage doors, the NT60 side door range provides homeowners with convenient everyday access to the garage while creating a fully coordinated appearance. Manufactured to the same exacting standards as Hörmann's garage doors, the NT60 combines robust construction, precision engineering and high levels of security with an attractive, contemporary design.

The Fast Track programme covers both single and double-leaf side doors, with no size restrictions, providing installers with maximum flexibility across a wide variety of residential projects. A choice of block frame or corner frame configurations is available to suit different installation requirements, together with practical hardware options including electric strike upgrades, standard lever handle sets and standard hinge colour finishes.

Alongside the promotional colours, the Fast Track range is available in a wide variety of colours, finishes and designs. For homeowners seeking the appearance of natural timber, Decograin finishes in Golden Oak and Dark Oak are also available.

By combining an attractive colour promotion with significantly reduced lead times and a comprehensive range of design options, Hörmann is making it easier than ever for installers to deliver premium garage side door solutions that combine style, convenience and exceptional value.

The NT60 colour promotion is available on orders placed between 1st August and 30th October 2026.

www.hormann.co.uk

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DoorBird Launches the New D22x Series for Modern Building Requirements

2026-09-25T11:00:00.000+01:00

Modern buildings are placing ever-increasing demands on door communication systems. Property owners, operators, and residents require intelligent solutions that accommodate different user groups, support flexible access methods, and meet high standards for security, connectivity, and integration.

With the new D22x series, DoorBird introduces a new generation of IP video door intercoms. Developed based on specific customer requirements, the series combines cutting-edge technology, exceptional flexibility, premium design, and Made in Germany quality.

As part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, the global leader in access solutions, DoorBird combines innovative IP-based door communication with extensive expertise in modern building security.

Security and Control at a New Level

The D22x series comprises more than 30 models and is the direct successor to the globally successful D21x Series. New additions to the portfolio include versions with digital nameplates, which can be managed centrally and remotely, offering significant advantages for property managers, housing associations, and operators of larger buildings.

All models feature a 5 MP HDR camera with a Sony image sensor and a 180° ultra-wide-angle lens, providing excellent visibility of the entrance area even under challenging lighting conditions. Video transmission is available in HD quality via the local network or through DoorBird Cloud Pro. Outstanding audio performance ensures clear and intelligible communication between visitors and residents, even in demanding environments.

Depending on the model, a variety of authentication methods are available, including the app, dual-frequency RFID, Bluetooth, PIN code, QR code, and fingerprint recognition. The security concept is further enhanced by a radar-based 4D motion sensor and an integrated tamper sensor.

Simplified Installation and Maximum Integration

With the D22x series, DoorBird also simplifies installation. Thanks to the integrated power output for electric door openers, many installations no longer require a separate power supply for the door release mechanism. This reduces cabling complexity, saves installation time, and lowers overall system costs.

Open interfaces such as SIP, OSDP, RS485, and Wiegand, along with a comprehensively documented LAN and Cloud API, enable integration with more than 100 smart homes, access control, video surveillance, and building management systems.

The door station supports installations with up to 3,000 residential or office units. In addition to traditional call buttons, digital nameplates and displays with resident directories are available. Accessibility features can be added to every model, including an integrated hearing loop, pictograms, and acoustic door-opening confirmation signals.

As an ISO/IEC 27001-certified company, DoorBird incorporates privacy and information security throughout the development process in accordance with the Security by Design principle.

Sustainable Modernisation of Existing Installations

The D22x series offers a particularly cost-effective way to modernize existing DoorBird D21x installations. When upgrading, only the main electronic unit needs to be replaced. Existing housings, front panels, and other components can continue to be used, while all existing settings can be retained. This significantly reduces installation effort and contributes to environmental sustainability.

Design as Part of the Architecture

In addition to technology, design plays a central role. More than 50 finishes and color options allow seamless integration into a wide variety of architectural concepts, from private residences to prestigious commercial properties.

Using the DoorBird 3D Configurator, customers can customize the D22x series to their individual requirements. Front panel size and shape, engravings, mailboxes, and the integration of reader units from leading manufacturers can all be configured with maximum flexibility.

“Modern buildings require solutions that can adapt flexibly while remaining easy to integrate,” says Sascha Keller, Founder and CEO of DoorBird. “With the D22x series, we provide a future-proof platform that combines powerful door communication, flexible access solutions, and sophisticated design Made in Germany.”

www.doorbird.com/shop/d22

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External Pedestrian Doorsets – Demonstrating Compliance with Designated Standards

2026-09-24T11:00:00.000+01:00

Fiona Critchley, Chair of the Timber Doorsets Group at the Door & Hardware Federation and Head of Communications, Gerda Security Products, outlines key points of which to be aware.

The Construction Products Reform White Paper places product safety at the centre of proposed reforms to the construction products regulatory regime. It identifies that only just over a third of construction products are currently regulated through designated standards and highlights ongoing concerns regarding incomplete, unclear, and misleading product information.

The Government’s objective is to ensure that construction products are safe, trusted, and supported by accurate, accessible, and transparent information.

Although new standards and Digital Product Passports are expected from 2028/29, the existing designated standards remain applicable today. CPR 305/2011 continues in UK law and is policed by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).

For developers, architects, Principal Designers, manufacturers, economic operators and the wider supply chain, understanding the applicable standards and evidence is essential to ensure that external pedestrian doorsets are correctly specified, manufactured and installed.

The compliance route depends on the type of doorset. There are three important categories:
Standard external pedestrian doorsets, such as flat entrance/balcony doors and service-room doors;
External pedestrian doorsets incorporating panic hardware; and
External pedestrian doorsets requiring fire resistance and/or smoke control.

These categories have different assessment and verification requirements.

Designated Standards

Two designated standards apply:

BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016
Windows and doors – Product standard, performance characteristics – Part 1: Windows and external pedestrian doorsets.

BS EN 16034:2014
Pedestrian doorsets, industrial, commercial, garage doors and openable windows – Product standard, performance characteristics – Fire resisting and/or smoke control characteristics.

BS EN 16034 cannot be used independently. Where fire resistance and/or smoke control is required, it must always be applied alongside another designated standard.

1. Standard External Pedestrian Doorsets

Standard external pedestrian doorsets without fire, smoke or panic-hardware requirements are covered by BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016.

Examples include flat entrance or balcony doors; front entrance doors; and service-room doors.

These products are subject to AVCP System 3. This means that the manufacturer or economic operator must ensure that initial type testing has been completed for the applicable Annex ZA essential characteristics. Testing must be undertaken by a UKAS-accredited test laboratory using the relevant test methods.

Applicable essential characteristics include: Thermal transmittance; Watertightness; Wind resistance; Air permeability; Acoustic performance; and Dangerous substances.(Just to note security is not an essential characteristic in Annex Za).

Where permitted, No Performance Declared (NPD) may be used. However, Thermal transmittance cannot be declared as NPD in the UK and must comply with Building Regulations.

For England, the current maximum U-values are 1.4 W/m²K for non-fire-rated external pedestrian doorsets; and 1.8 W/m²K for external pedestrian doorsets with fire resistance / smoke control.

Declaration of Performance

The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is the legal document under the Construction Products Regulation and provides the basis for UKCA or CE marking.

It should identify the applicable designated standard; the manufacturer; the product and product reference; the intended use; the date of issue; and the applicable Annex ZA essential characteristics.

Marking is on the product or the packaging, or accompanying documentation

2. External Pedestrian Doorsets with Panic Hardware

External pedestrian doorsets incorporating panic hardware remain within BS EN 14351-1, but they are subject to AVCP System 1 rather than System 3.

This is because of the safety-critical characteristic of ability to release.

An Approved Body is responsible for assessing ability to release and is also involved in sampling assessment of relevant characteristics, including: Thermal transmittance; Watertightness; Resistance to wind load; Air permeability; and Acoustic performance.

NPD may be declared where permitted, except for ability to release and thermal transmittance.

The manufacturer must issue a DoP and apply UKCA/CE marking, including the Approved Body identification number.

The distinction is important: a doorset incorporating panic hardware should not simply be treated as a standard external pedestrian doorset under AVCP System 3.

3. External Pedestrian Doorsets Requiring Fire Resistance and/or Smoke Control Performance.

Where an external pedestrian doorset requires fire resistance and/or smoke control, both designated standards apply:

BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016; and
BS EN 16034:2014.

BS EN 16034 cannot be used on its own.

These doorsets are subject to AVCP System 1 which means that they require Approved Body involvement for factory production control and product sampling prior to testing. Testing is undertaken at a UKAS-accredited test house using the relevant standards: BS EN 1634-1 for fire resistance testing and BS EN 1634-3 for smoke leakage testing.

Fire classifications are established in accordance with EN 13501-2+A1:2016, based either on a Direct Field of Application, using a single test, or an Extended Field of Application (EXAP). The EXAP route involves several primary tests, with results considered strictly in accordance with the applicable EN 15269 EXAP rules. The resulting EXAPs and classification reports are subsequently considered by the Approved Body. Classifications include: E: Fire integrity; EW: Fire integrity and limited heat radiation; EI: Fire Integrity and full insulation, with the duration in minutes stated thereafter.

Smoke classifications include Sa for ambient temperature smoke leakage; and S200 for hot smoke leakage.

The Approved Body uses the test evidence and classification report to issue the Certificate of Constancy of Performance (CoCoP), which the manufacturer uses to support their declaration of fire and smoke performance in the DoP.

The manufacturer then has to combine the essential characteristics for both designated standards into the one Declaration of Performance for the doorset / doorset range.

Marking for EN 16034 includes the UKCA or CE Mark with the registered number of the Approved Body on the product.

System House and Cascaded Test Evidence

Many fire door producers operate as fabricators or assemblers using designs, components and test evidence developed by a System House. A System House may develop and test the doorset design, hold the master CoCoP and cascade approved designs and evidence to individual producers.

However, cascaded evidence does not remove the producer's own regulatory responsibilities. A producer must not assume that a BS EN 16034 CoCoP is sufficient evidence of compliance for the complete external fire-rated pedestrian doorset.

The CoCoP provides evidence for the fire resistance and/or smoke-control performance covered by BS EN 16034. It does not, by itself, demonstrate compliance with the other applicable requirements of BS EN 14351-1.

The Doorset must also meet BS EN 14351-1

The producer must ensure that the doorset design has appropriate test evidence against the relevant performance standards required by BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016.

Essential characteristics include: Thermal transmittance; Air permeability; Water tightness; Resistance to wind load; and Acoustic performance.

The evidence must relate to the doorset design being manufactured, including its relevant construction, components and configuration, and the finished product must remain within the scope and limitations of the supporting evidence.

The producer therefore needs to consider the System House evidence as one part of the overall compliance package, not as evidence that the complete doorset complies with both standards.

The producer remains responsible for ensuring that the final doorset is manufactured in accordance with the approved and tested design; uses the specified and approved components as laid down in the tested design; has appropriate evidence for the relevant BS EN 14351-1 characteristics; has appropriate evidence supporting its BS EN 16034 fire and/or smoke classifications; has a issued a correct DoP covering the applicable requirements of both standards (as laid out in Annex Za of both designated standards) and is correctly UKCA/CE marked.

A BS EN 16034 CoCoP is therefore not, by itself, evidence that the complete external fire-rated pedestrian doorset complies with BS EN 14351-1.

Conclusion

The compliance route for an external pedestrian doorset depends on its characteristics and intended use.

A standard external pedestrian doorset, such as a flat entrance/balcony door, front door or service-room door, is covered by BS EN 14351-1 and AVCP System 3.

An external pedestrian doorset incorporating panic hardware remains under BS EN 14351-1, but is subject to AVCP System 1, requiring Approved Body involvement because of the ability-to-release characteristic.

Where fire resistance and/or smoke control is required, the doorset must comply with both BS EN 14351-1 (with either of the two afore-mentioned systems) as well as BS EN 16034 which is subject to AVCP System 1.

The Declaration of Performance remains the legal document. For fire-rated doorsets, the CoCoP provides important third-party evidence for fire and smoke performance under BS EN 16034, but it does not replace the producer's responsibilities under BS EN 14351-1.

Where System House arrangements and cascaded evidence are used, producers must ensure that the doorset design has appropriate test evidence against the relevant performance standards required by BS EN 14351-1, as well as appropriate evidence for its BS EN 16034 fire and smoke performance.

Ultimately, compliance depends on a complete chain of evidence linking the tested design, relevant performance testing, manufacturing process, certification, declared performance and final product. Accurate documentation and clearly defined responsibilities are fundamental to product safety, regulatory compliance and confidence throughout the supply chain.

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Investing in the Future of Architectural Hardware

2026-09-23T11:00:00.000+01:00

Amid a developing landscape of regulation, digital innovation and heightened expectations around competence, how can the industry support the next generation of architectural ironmongery professionals? GAI Fellow Award 2026 Winner, David Gray of Consort Architectural Hardware, discusses.

There was a time when architectural ironmongery might have been viewed as humble brassware, hinges and fittings only. That perception could not be further from the reality of the sector today, however. Door hardware, fire safety products and intuitive access control systems are central to the design, performance, accessibility and compliance of our homes, community spaces and commercial environments.

Against a backdrop of regulatory change and increasingly demanding end user requirements, there’s no doubt that the complexity of construction projects continues to grow. The drive towards smarter, more connected buildings is expanding the scope of integrated hardware solutions, and when you add in the progressive digital processes that are now shaping modern project design and delivery, it’s clear to see how the role of the architectural ironmongery professional is evolving.

Investment in the next generation is critical then. Importantly, the skills challenge facing our sector goes beyond talent acquisition alone - in fact, ongoing professional development has a vital role to play in maintaining standards, encouraging innovation and building the industry expertise required for the years ahead.

Preparing for better outcomes

Like many specialist areas of construction, architectural ironmongery relies heavily on experience and technical know-how. Traditionally, much of that knowledge has been developed through practical collaboration and hands on experience. Today, however, formal education, structured training and continuing professional development now sit at the heart of the occupation.

Over recent years, the sector has experienced significant developments in building and fire safety legislation and regulatory requirements, including the Building Safety Act 2022 and amendments to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. These developments have placed greater emphasis on competence across the built environment sector. BS 8670-1:2024 also provides a core competence framework covering the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours required for individuals working on buildings.

For architectural ironmongery specifically, these principles are central to the specification and delivery of products that can have a direct impact on safety, accessibility and security, such as fire door closers, panic exit hardware and escape locks. In short, a lack of knowledge on the hardware installed throughout our buildings can have serious consequences, particularly when products form part of a life-safety system. As competence and accountability move to the forefront of decision making, training should no longer be regarded as an optional professional benefit, instead it is an essential part of responsible practice.

Modern architectural ironmongery professionals are increasingly expected to move away from passive product selection and instead must be able to demonstrate an understanding of the wider specification process.

Why is a particular ironmongery solution appropriate for that application? How should it be specified, installed and maintained? And how will it interact with other elements of the building’s infrastructure? Trained professionals are better equipped to answer these questions, whilst understanding the relationship between BS EN standards, relevant building regulations and the needs of modern building users.

Bridging the knowledge gap

The connection between competence and professional development is also being driven by the modernisation of architectural hardware. This next generation of professionals are entering an environment where mechanical hardware products now form part of sophisticated electronic and integrated systems.

Between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and next-gen electronic access control solutions, the range of technologies influencing architectural ironmongery continues to expand. This creates opportunities for the sector, but also raises the bar in terms of the knowledge needed to specify and deliver effective solutions. At the same time, as with many specialist sectors, architectural ironmongery faces the challenge of an aging demographic among experienced technical specifiers.

There is a clear responsibility to preserve that knowledge whilst creating meaningful routes for the next generation to develop their own expertise alongside new standards and technical practice. Professional recognition can form an important part of that process. Where many architectural practices prefer to work with accredited ironmongers, the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ Registered Architectural Ironmonger (RegAI) certification, provides a recognised demonstration of professional competence.

Conscientious manufacturers, distributors, specifiers and industry bodies must come together to ensure professional development remains accessible through structured career paths, mentoring, technical guidance and funded training.

These routes, alongside regular CPDs and the GAI’s Certificate in Architectural Hardware for example, can help businesses to attract new talent whilst supporting emerging professionals and existing teams as they develop their technical understanding and confidence. The bottom line is, a more aptly trained workforce can support effective specification and communication which ultimately contributes to better project outcomes.

The case for education and upskilling is therefore not only important for individual career development, but it is fundamental to the success of the ironmongery industry as a whole. The evolving demands associated with competence, innovation, safety and sustainability only demonstrate why training is no longer a one-off exercise. Ongoing professional development should not be viewed as an administrative expense, instead, it is a strategic investment - one the sector simply can’t afford to miss out on.

Ongoing Support with Consort Architectural Hardware

Consort Architectural Hardware is committed to supporting professionals within the sector, providing focused technical CPDs and digital specification guidance in the form of BIM and Revit integration.

For those looking to develop their knowledge and understanding on architectural ironmongery finishes, Consort’s CPD course ‘Architectural Ironmongery Finishes – Finding the Right Balance’ is delivered by accredited experts and explores the selection and application of finishes within architectural hardware.

A second CPD course ‘What Makes Ironmongery So Complicated’, provides an introduction to the principles of architectural ironmongery specification and explores many factors that influence hardware selection.

For more information on Consort Architectural Hardware CPDs, contact info@consort-hw.com

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“EasyAXS - made with the installer in mind”

2026-09-22T11:00:00.000+01:00

A smart connectivity solution for automated gates: simple to install, set up and easy to hand over to the end user.

BFT Automation, the specialists in access automation systems and part of the SOMFY Group, has officially launched EasyAXS this summer, an innovative smart connectivity system designed for automated gates.

EasyAXS delivers a seamless end-to-end solution for installers, simplifying installation and setup, with comprehensive after-sales support.

Easy to install and quick to commission, the compact module is plugged directly into the gate system control panel and connects via a dedicated app with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing installers to configure and activate it directly from a smartphone even without an internet connection.

Wi-Fi or Mobile (4G with a 1GB SIM) connectivity modules are available, offering flexibility tailored to customer needs and project requirements. Users can control their gates through the TaHoma by Somfy app on their smartphones. Those already using TaHoma for home automation can seamlessly add their gate system, making it more convenient to manage gates and other connected devices in one place.

Commenting on the launch of the EasyAXS, Steven Montgomery, Managing Director for Somfy/BFT, said: “EasyAXS is made with the installer in mind – simple to install, set up and easy to hand over to the end user. The app is intuitive and designed so that no training is needed to install and use. No additional products are needed for smart phone control either.

“The 4G GSM solution is also very reliable and required for projects where the gate control panel is located out of range of the local WiFi signal. The TaHoma end user app, from Somfy, is easy to use while at home or away and can be linked to a smart speaker for voice activated control.

“We are also looking forward to introducing remote servicing in the near future, which will include remote diagnostics and aftersales support that can take place off site. For the installer, this will mean time saved on travelling to and from locations to resolve issues that can now be identified remotely."

EasyAXS is currently compatible with the Thalia BT A80/160 and Deimos sliding gate operators, with a continued phased roll-out planned for connectivity to other BFT products in the future.

For further information on the EasyAXS, contact BFT Automation on 0161 456 0456 (North Office), or 01477 674 750 (South Office) or visit www.bftautomationuk.com

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From the Garage Door to the Gate: One System, One Standard

2026-09-21T10:00:00.000+01:00

LiftMaster's EVX garage door openers and EVK gate operators share the same radio, the same accessories and a similar set-up logic — and that changes how a residential project runs.

Residential access has become a two-part job. Most private projects now involve a garage door and an entrance gate, an app on the homeowner's phone, and one professional who has to make all of it work — ideally in a single visit. LiftMaster develops its residential range as one system for exactly that reason.

EVX: Connectivity meets convenience

The EVX Series is myQ compatible, enabling smart and connected access when paired with the myQ Internet Gateway. Remote operation, real-time door status, guest users’ management, activity alerts and scheduled closing are available from the moment the operator is commissioned.

Designed around the installation

The EVX Series is engineered with that in mind: logical assembly, sensible cable routing, pre-set default applications and programming that can be completed without calling technical support. Commissioning ends with a working app on the customer's phone before the van leaves the driveway.

With skilled labor, the scarcest resource in the industry, installation time and avoidable service calls are no longer soft factors. They are the margin.

The same thinking at the gate:

Here is where the system idea pays off a second time. LiftMaster's EVK gate operators are developed on the same principles as the EVX Series — the same radio standard, the same accessories, the same myQ connectivity, the same approach to development, installation and daily use.

In practice, on site and in the household:

One radio system. The handset that opens the gate opens the garage. There’s no need to carry a second remote.
One accessory portfolio. Keypads, wall controls, remotes and myQ gateway are drawn from the same range, so stock in the van covers both access points.
One app. The homeowner manages the whole property in myQ, with a single, consistent way in.
One skill set. Whatever the team already knows about the EVX Series carries straight over to gate operators. No separate training track for gates.
One point of contact. Both ranges are supplied and supported through the LiftMaster Partner Network.

Handled as two unrelated products from two suppliers, a garage and gate project means two radio systems, two apps, two accessory ranges, two different skill sets and two possible sources of complaint. Handled as one system, none of that arises.

What does that mean commercially?

The second access point stops being a separate project and becomes a straightforward extension of the first. Quoting the gate alongside the garage door is easier to justify to the customer, faster to install, and simpler to service afterwards, because everything on the property runs on the same platform.

For the professional: fewer part numbers, less training overhead, fewer callbacks. For the household: one app, one handset, one system that behaves the same way at every entrance.

Everything You Need, One Partner Away 

Explore the full range of LiftMaster garage door openers and gate operators at www.liftmaster.eu or speak to your LiftMaster contact about becoming a certified partner. 

Interested in getting started? Contact Andrew Buckler: Andrew.Buckler@chamberlain.com

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Hörmann Street Campaign Makes Strong Start

2026-09-20T09:00:00.000+01:00

Hörmann Truedor’s innovative and creative social media campaign, ‘Hörmann Street’, has made a strong start, reaching more than one million people and attracting over 900,000 views across its five episodes in just its first month.

Launched at the beginning of July across the Company’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube channels, Hörmann Street takes a fresh approach to promoting composite doors, using humorous, distinctly British soap-style storytelling to engage homeowners.

Developed with a clear commercial objective in mind – to increase homeowner awareness and generate high-quality, live enquiries for Hörmann Truedor installers, the campaign follows the daily lives, relationships and emotional conflicts of a recurring cast of recognisable characters.

Combining romance, family drama, betrayal and suspenseful cliffhangers, each of the five episodes cleverly incorporates the key features and benefits of Hörmann Truedor composite doors without losing the entertainment value of the storyline.

Strong first-month results

The campaign’s performance during July has exceeded expectations, with:

More than 1 million people reached
Over 900,000 episode views
711 additional visitors driven to the Hörmann Truedor website

As part of the campaign journey, consumers are encouraged to visit the Hörmann Truedor website, where they can design their ideal door and use the new Installer Finder to locate their nearest Hörmann Truedor installer.

David O’Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann UK, comments: “It’s fair to say that even in its first month, Hörmann Street has been a great success. It’s designed not only to entertain, but also to create a strong pipeline of enquiries for our composite door installers. We’ve received an excellent reaction to the campaign, with strong engagement and traction across our social channels, and it’s certainly got our customers and the market talking.

“No other entrance door supplier in the UK market is currently taking such an innovative and creative approach to engaging with homeowners. The results from the first month demonstrate that there is a real appetite for brands to communicate differently, and we’re delighted with the response so far.”

Hörmann is also encouraging its installers to make use of the campaign content themselves. Customers wishing to feature the Hörmann Street videos in their showrooms or on their own social media channels can request access to the films from the Hörmann Marketing team.

www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

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More Than a Product: The Technical Support Behind Ellard

2026-09-19T09:00:00.000+01:00

At Ellard, we know that providing the right product is only part of the solution. Behind our range of motors, controls and automation products is a technical team helping to ensure the knowledge, expertise and support behind those products are just as strong.

When you're working with motors and automation, product knowledge matters. Understanding compatibility, application requirements, configuration and installation can make the difference between a straightforward project and a difficult one.

That's why our technical team plays such an important role at Ellard.

From training our sales team and developing technical resources to testing new products, supporting customers and solving complex problems, the team provides the technical expertise that sits behind our products and the service we deliver.

Because our relationship with customers doesn't stop when a product leaves our warehouse.

More Than Technical Support

Technical support is often thought of as something you need when there is a problem. At Ellard, it starts much earlier.

Our technical team works closely with our sales team to ensure they have the knowledge, training and tools needed to give customers informed advice.

From product training and technical guidance to tools such as our product selectors, the team helps turn complex technical information into practical resources that make it easier to understand our products and their applications.

And when a question goes beyond those resources, our technical specialists are there to provide the additional expertise needed — whether that's around installation, configuration or troubleshooting.

Sales brings the customer relationship. Technical brings the specialist knowledge. Together, they provide a stronger service.

That means technical expertise isn't simply something customers turn to when something goes wrong. It's built into the way Ellard supports customers from the very beginning.

The People Behind the Products

But what does that actually look like day to day?

Our technical team works across Ellard's growing range of motors, controls and automation solutions, from testing new products and developing technical resources to supporting customers over the phone and on site.

We spoke to members of the team to find out more about what happens behind the scenes and the role technical expertise plays in delivering a better customer experience.

Mark Grice | Technical Team

“We're always looking for ways to improve the service we provide.”

How would you describe your role at Ellard?

“A big part of my role is making sure we're constantly improving the technical service we provide. That means using dashboards and data to understand how we're performing, supporting customers over the phone and by email, and testing every new product inside out before it reaches the market.

We need to know our products through and through so we can give customers the highest standard of support possible. And, of course… making plenty of brews for the team helps too.”

Ryan | Technical Team

“Good technical knowledge gives customers better advice.”

What technical knowledge is most important for the sales team to have?

“Product compatibility is probably the biggest one — understanding what works with what. Beyond that, it's knowing how to specify products for different applications and being confident explaining the features and benefits of each solution.

We also spend time understanding competitor products, because that helps our sales team have more informed conversations and give customers clearer comparisons.”

Mark Grice | Technical Team

“Customers value knowing there's always someone they can call.”

What do customers appreciate most about Ellard's technical support?

“Peace of mind. Customers know there's a technical team behind them throughout the project, and we regularly receive compliments about our product knowledge and how quickly we respond.

It's not just about answering the phone either. We produce detailed how-to videos that help customers solve problems on site, and we deliver free technical training that's designed to be practical, informative and easy to digest.

Being able to train an entire customer team at once — often at their own premises — is a service people really value.”

Tom | Technical Team

“Customer feedback shapes the products we develop.”

How does the technical team support Ellard's future product development?

“We're often the first point of contact when customers have feedback, so we have a clear view of what's working, what isn't and where the pain points are. That insight feeds directly into product development and helps us improve the overall customer experience.

We also make sure the rest of the business comes on that journey with us. Before a new product launches, we work to ensure everyone at Ellard understands its features, benefits and applications, so customers receive the same high standard of advice no matter who they speak to.

Keeping our ear to the ground is a huge part of the role too. We're constantly monitoring developments across the industry so we can help shape products that meet the market's evolving needs.”

When the Standard Solution Isn't Enough

The value of technical expertise becomes particularly clear when a project doesn't fit neatly into a standard application.

Not every technical challenge can be solved with an off-the-shelf product. Sometimes, finding the right solution means thinking differently about how existing products and technologies can work together.

One of the more demanding examples for our technical team came when Ellard was asked to develop a bespoke interlock system for a school that was due to open the following day.

Mark Grice recalls the challenge:

What was the challenge you were faced with?

“We were brought in to develop a special interlock system for the school, which was due to open the following day. This was a special entrance that was actually being installed specifically for Prince George. There was a very tight deadline, so we knew we had to come up with a solution quickly and, more importantly, make sure it worked reliably.”

What did the solution involve?

“The system needed to work alongside an ANPR system. When the vehicle was recognised, it would trigger the interlock and activate an airlock system to control access.

“This wasn't something we could simply take off the shelf. We had to develop a bespoke panel and think about how we could bring our existing products and technology together in a way that we'd never really done before.”

How did the team approach such a tight deadline?

“There was a lot of pressure because the school was opening the next day. We had to be intuitive and think outside the box to find a solution that would work within the time we had.

“The team stayed on site until around 11pm the night before the opening, working to get everything completed and to the standard we expected. It was a challenging project, but everyone was determined to get it over the line.”

What was the outcome?

“We got the system completed and ready for the opening, and the customer was over the moon with the support we provided. For me, that's what technical support is all about — sometimes you have to go beyond the standard application of a product, understand what the customer actually needs and find a way to make it work.”

Mark's experience is a good example of what happens when product knowledge is combined with practical problem-solving and determination. It's also a reminder that technical support isn't always about having an immediate answer — sometimes it's about having the expertise to find one.

More Than a Supplier

For Ellard, technical expertise is an important part of the service we provide — from equipping our sales team with the knowledge they need, to supporting customers with technical resources, installation guidance and problem-solving.

As our product range continues to grow across motorisation, automation, fire safety and smart-home technology, we're continuing to invest in the people, knowledge and resources behind those products.

Our technical team's experience and direct contact with customers also gives us valuable insight into the challenges faced in the field, helping to inform how we develop and improve our products.

Because being the best a good supplier isn't just about having the right products. It's about having the knowledge, expertise and people behind them to help our customers succeed.

Need technical advice?

Whether you're planning an installation, working through a technical challenge or simply need some additional guidance, our technical team is ready to help.

Get in touch with Ellard today and speak to our technical team.

www.ellard.co.uk

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Rollixo® Premium io to simplify roller garage door installations

2026-09-18T11:00:00.000+01:00

This year, Somfy launched Rollixo® Premium io, a new all-in-one control solution designed to simplify the installation, commissioning and operation of motorised roller garage doors for professional installers.

Developed around io-homecontrol® technology, Rollixo Premium io combines flexible installation options, built-in diagnostics and advanced safety features in a single universal controller.

It also offers low standby power consumption for enhanced energy efficiency, features an energy-saving LED light strip for optimal illumination, and provides the option to connect an external light for added convenience and flexibility.

“Installers are looking for solutions that reduce time on site without compromising on safety or compliance,” said Alex Dickenson, Key Account Manager, Somfy UK.

“Rollixo Premium io has been designed to make installation more straightforward, with clear diagnostic feedback, flexible safety edge compatibility and digital tools that support installers from commissioning through to ongoing maintenance.”

Designed to make installation quicker and more reliable

Rollixo Premium io has been developed with real-world installation challenges in mind. The controller supports wired or wireless safety edges, including optical and resistive solutions, allowing installers to choose the most appropriate configuration for each project.

Key installation benefits include:

- LED diagnostic feedback for the motor, safety brake, safety edge and photocells

- Removable terminal blocks to simplify wiring and reduce installation time

- Flexible mounting options using a quick-fit bracket or direct wall fixing

- Supplied with factory pre-programmed remote controls to support faster commissioning

Digital support tools for professional installers

Rollixo Premium io integrates with Somfy’s professional digital ecosystem, helping installers work more efficiently on site and beyond.

- The Help Me app provides step-by-step commissioning guidance on your smartphone with no internet connection required.

- TaHoma® pro enables quick setup of connected installations with real-time feedback.

- Serv-e-Go® allows remote monitoring and diagnostics of connected systems, helping installers prepare visits and reduce unnecessary call-outs.

For installers and retailers, Rollixo Premium io also provides a way to differentiate their offer in a competitive market. By combining enhanced security features, smart home compatibility and connected services, professionals can offer homeowners a more complete, future-ready solution that goes beyond basic garage door operation.

Enhanced safety, security and smart control for homeowners

For end users, Rollixo Premium io delivers everyday convenience alongside advanced safety and security features. These include an integrated 100 dB alarm sounder to deter unauthorised access, holiday mode to disable remote controls when activated, and motor stall detection to stop roller door operation if excessive weight is detected.

The system is also compatible with Somfy TaHoma®, enabling smartphone control, real-time door status information and integration with wider smart home scenarios.

Built to last and designed responsibly

Rollixo Premium io is supplied with a five-year warranty and follows Somfy’s eco-design approach. With standby power consumption below 0.5 W and independently verified environmental performance, it meets current sustainability and regulatory requirements.

Now available in the UK. For more information visit www.somfy.co.uk

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New electromagnetic door closer gets the green light

2026-09-17T11:00:00.000+01:00

A new electromagnetic door control solution has been brought to the market to make busy buildings safer, more accessible and easier to maintain.

The AR9798 from ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand, helps eliminate unnecessary maintenance calls by featuring a green LED voltage light on the switch box to indicate that there is a connection to a power source.

This light shows green when the optimum voltage between 20-24 volts is being received, giving installers, building users and maintenance teams reassurance that there is a good and reliable connection to the power source.

If the voltage drops below 20 volts, the light goes out, helping facilities teams identify whether an issue is electrical or mechanical which in turn minimises costly callouts to the wrong party.

The closer’s hold-open and free-swing functions allow easy movement throughout a building while still ensuring doors will swiftly close in the event of a fire.

In hold-open mode, the AR9798 holds the door open at a set angle between 80 and 160 degrees, enabling people to move more easily through high-traffic areas such as corridors in schools, hospitals, offices and public buildings.

In free-swing mode, the door can move with little to no resistance, making it suitable for environments where accessibility and ease of movement are important, including care homes and healthcare settings.

Conversion between the two settings is a simple process involving the removal of only two fixings from the arm of the closer. Compared to the standard method for changing the whole arm set, which can typically take 10-15 minutes, this new process takes significantly less time and reduces the risk of incorrect transition.

Many electromagnetic door control solutions feature just an electronic release whereby the unit operates as a standard mechanical closer and closes the door if the fire alarm is activated or power is lost, but the AR9798 also includes manual release.

This allows the door to be closed by pushing or pulling it to release the magnet without forcing or damaging the mechanism and gives facilities teams and building users a more practical way to manage buildings during everyday use.

Rob Adams, technical manager for ARRONE, said: “Busy buildings need doors that are easy to move through in everyday use but that can still close reliably when fire safety depends on it.

“We’ve designed the AR9798 to incorporate all the best features that are out there in the current market to make it the go-to choice for specifiers, installers and facilities teams while still having that reassurance that it meets industry standards and regulations.

"The new concept of the voltage indicator light complements these features and helps to make installation and ongoing management more straightforward.”

The AR9798 is adjustable across power sizes three to six using the spring tension rather than moving the closer around the door, giving specifiers, installers and distributors flexibility across a range of applications.

It has been tested to BS EN 1154 and BS EN 1155 and is suitable for 30-minute and 60-minute timber fire door applications as well as standard non-fire doors.

Available in satin stainless steel, silver enamel and black finishes, the AR9798 supports design flexibility across public, commercial, healthcare and education environments.

How-to videos showing installation and conversion between the hold-open and swing-free functions are also available by visiting www.hoppe.co.uk

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Beyond Compliance: Why BS 7036 Matters More Than Ever

2026-09-16T11:00:00.000+01:00

As the powered pedestrian door and entrance control sector adapts to changing technologies, broader product applications and a greater focus on user vulnerability, one familiar British Standard is set to assume an increasingly important role. Darren Hyde, Head of Technical at the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA), explains why the revised BS 7036 will put risk assessment firmly at the heart of safe specification, installation and operation.

For many within the powered pedestrian door industry, BS EN 16005 has long been the standard most readily associated with safety. It establishes safety-in-use requirements and test methods for powered pedestrian doors, while BS EN 17352 performs a similar role for powered pedestrian entrance control equipment such as speed lanes and turnstiles.

But meeting the requirements of a product standard is only part of the picture.

Both these standards require risk assessment in line with BS EN ISO 12100 - incorporating safety of machinery, general principles for design, risk assessment and risk reduction. It sets out a generic machinery risk-assessment framework while BS 7036 applies that thinking specifically to pedestrian door and entrance systems in the UK.

This distinction matters because meeting the minimum safeguarding requirements of the relevant product standard does not, in itself, establish that an installation is appropriate for every foreseeable user. The application-specific risk assessment must consider the people who could encounter the system, the environment in which it operates and the potential consequences of contact.

Increasingly, the challenge is understanding how a door or entrance system will actually be used, who will use it and what risks arise within its particular environment. That is where BS 7036 comes into its own.

Currently being revised, BS 7036 provides the UK code of practice for risk assessment and risk reduction. Its new scope will encompass powered pedestrian doors conforming to BS EN 16005, powered pedestrian entrance control equipment conforming to BS EN 17352 including manually operated revolving doors and turnstiles. It provides guidance on hazard analysis and risk assessment for everyone from suppliers and installers to specifiers, property owners and duty holders.

For Darren Hyde, ADSA's Head of Technical and a member of the standards committees helping to shape the industry's technical framework, this represents an important shift in emphasis.

“The product standards tell us the safety requirements that systems need to meet, but BS 7036 helps us apply those requirements to the real environment in which a door or entrance system is being used. That's becoming increasingly important because risk isn't determined by the product alone - it's about the application, the users and the potential consequences if something goes wrong.”

That distinction is particularly important at specification stage. BS 7036 places emphasis on establishing predicted user characteristics and precise operational requirements, including the volume and type of pedestrian traffic likely to use an installation. It also calls for a full hazard analysis and risk assessment so that the final installation is safe for all foreseeable users. In practice, this means safety cannot be considered solely at the point of installation: the risk assessment needs to inform decisions from specification onwards.

GEZE UK

From Numbers to Consequences

One of the most significant developments concerns the way vulnerability and high-risk applications are considered.

Under the previous approach, an environment might typically have been considered high risk where a large proportion of users were vulnerable – a hospital or care home being obvious examples.

BSI's rationale for the revision highlights the change introduced by BS EN 16005:2023: assessment is moving away from simply considering the proportion of vulnerable users towards considering who could use the door and the consequences of contact.

This includes people with “reduced mental, physical or sensory capabilities”, whose needs may affect (even on a temporary basis) their ability to use or respond to a powered entrance safely. As a result, powered pedestrian doors in more general traffic areas should be regarded as high risk where previously they might not have been.

Darren explains: “The important question is no longer simply, ‘Is this a building predominantly used by vulnerable people?’ We have to consider whether a vulnerable person could reasonably use that entrance and what the consequences could be.

“That changes the conversation. A door doesn't become lower risk simply because most of the people passing through it are fit and able. The risk assessment has to consider those users who may be more susceptible to injury and make sure appropriate safeguards are in place.”

The revised definitions sharpen that distinction. A high-risk scenario is one in which a vulnerable person could be using the door system; a low-risk scenario is a controlled environment in which all users are not defined as vulnerable.

ADSA believes this is likely to mean that virtually all powered pedestrian doors in general traffic areas will need to be treated as high risk. For powered systems, this has a direct consequence for safeguarding: in high-risk scenarios, measures should applied to prevent users from coming into contact with the moving door or system.

A Much Broader Standard

The revised BS 7036 also reflects how much the entrance sector itself has changed.

When ADSA helped develop the industry's original code of practice, which subsequently formed the basis of BS 7036:1988, the focus was powered pedestrian doors. Today, entrances increasingly incorporate speed lanes, powered turnstiles, access control and other technologies as part of integrated building systems.

The new BS 7036 therefore expands beyond powered pedestrian doors to provide risk-assessment guidance for entrance control equipment covered by BS EN 17352, as well as manually operated revolving doors and turnstiles. ADSA's own material on the consultation describes the revision as strengthening guidance around user vulnerability, risk assessment and safety.

That expansion is particularly significant because BS EN 17352 itself excludes certain uses involving vulnerable people, people with special needs and unsupervised children under eight from its scope. The revised BS 7036 is intended to provide additional practical risk-assessment guidance around these environments.

“Entrance technology has moved on considerably and the boundaries between different systems are less obvious than they once were,” says Darren. “We now have powered doors, speed lanes, turnstiles and access control working together within the same entrance environment.

“What BS 7036 gives us is a common risk-assessment approach. Instead of looking at each product in isolation, we can consider how people interact with the complete entrance and make decisions based on the risks presented in that particular application.”

dormakaba UK

From Compliance to Competence

For today's specifiers and technicians, knowing the standards cannot simply mean memorising a set of dimensions and assuming that makes every installation safe. They increasingly need to understand the standards, identify hazards, assess the particular environment and make a competent judgement about the appropriate risk-reduction measures.

This mirrors ADSA's approach to certification renewal, where candidates are encouraged to return to the standards and find answers rather than simply memorise information. The approach is intended to strengthen technical knowledge against the backdrop of the Building Safety Act and the industry's increasing focus on competence.

Adds Darren: “Compliance isn't a tick-box exercise. Two apparently identical doors can present very different risks depending on where they're installed and who is using them. Competence is about being able to recognise those differences, undertake the appropriate risk assessment and apply the standards correctly.”

What Does This Mean in Practice?

The significance of that approach becomes clearer when considering how seemingly straightforward entrance applications can present very different risks.

Consider a powered pedestrian door in a commercial office. At first glance, it may appear a relatively straightforward application, serving predominantly independently mobile adults. But its users will not be uniform.

Visitors may include older people, children or those with reduced mobility, impaired vision or other vulnerabilities, e.g. the affects of temporary medication. Risk assessment therefore needs to look beyond the predominant user profile and consider who could reasonably encounter the door – and the potential consequences of contact.

The same principle becomes even more pronounced in a healthcare or care environment. Here, users may move more slowly, use walking aids or wheelchairs, have impaired awareness or require assistance. A door system that may present an acceptable level of risk in one setting could require additional risk-reduction measures in another.

“The technology may be the same, but the environment and the people using it can be completely different,” says Darren. “That is why risk assessment has to be specific to the application. We need to consider how people will approach and move through the entrance, where hazards could arise and the severity of the potential consequences.”

The expanding scope of BS 7036 also brings that thinking to entrance control equipment such as speed lanes and powered turnstiles.

These systems are increasingly integrated with access control and other technologies, often within busy reception areas and transport, commercial or public environments. While BS EN 17352 provides the relevant product safety requirements, the wider assessment must consider how the equipment interacts with the people and environment around it.

That might include passenger flow, unfamiliar users, tailgating, luggage or mobility aids, as well as the possibility of children or vulnerable people encountering equipment that was principally designed for a different user profile. This is particularly relevant given the limitations within BS EN 17352 around certain vulnerable users – one of the areas the revised BS 7036 is intended to help address.

For Darren, this demonstrates why looking at individual products in isolation is no longer enough.

“Whether we are considering a powered door, speed lane or turnstile, the starting point has to be the same: who is going to use it, how are they going to use it and what are the foreseeable risks?

“Standards provide the framework, but it takes competent assessment to apply that framework appropriately to the real world.”

GEZE UK

Raising the Standard on Risk

None of this diminishes the importance of BS EN 16005 or BS EN 17352. Both remain fundamental to establishing the safety requirements that powered pedestrian doors and entrance control equipment must meet.

What is changing is the emphasis placed on understanding how those products perform within their specific application.

As entrance technology becomes more sophisticated and the industry develops a better understanding of vulnerability and foreseeable risk, knowing that a product complies with the relevant standard is no longer the end of the conversation.

BS 7036 provides the bridge between product requirements and their practical application – bringing together the equipment, environment, users and potential consequences within a structured approach to risk assessment and risk reduction.

For ADSA, that means BS 7036 should be considered throughout the life of an installation - from specification and design through installation, commissioning, operation and subsequent review. Specifiers, installers, occupiers, property owners, duty holders and other stakeholders all have a part to play in ensuring that foreseeable users and risks are considered, rather than treating risk assessment as an exercise carried out only at the point of installation.

Darren concludes: “BS EN 16005 and BS EN 17352 remain absolutely fundamental, but increasingly we need to be just as confident in how we apply them.

“That is where BS 7036 becomes so important. It takes us beyond asking whether a product meets the standard and makes us consider whether the complete installation is appropriate and safe for the people who will actually use it.”

Preparing for Change

With publication of the revised BS 7036 expected later this year, ADSA will continue to support the industry in understanding the changes and what they mean in practice. British Standards Institute (BSI) will also be hosting webinars around the launch to highlight changes covered by the standard.

Architects or specifiers currently working on building designs with automated entrance solutions should apply BS 7036:2026 amendments within their plans.

ADSA members can access technical guidance and standards support through its academy, alongside training and professional development courses designed to help ensure knowledge keeps pace with changing requirements.

To find out more about ADSA membership, visit www.adsa.org.uk

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Hörmann Truedor Introduces New High-Security ISEO Cylinder Lock as Standard

2026-09-15T11:00:00.000+01:00

Hörmann Truedor has further strengthened the security credentials of its composite door range with the introduction of the new ISEO R700 S3 High Security Cylinder, now supplied as a standard feature across the range at no additional cost.

Forming part of Hörmann Truedor's ongoing commitment to product development, the new ISEO cylinder ensures installers and homeowners benefit from the latest advances in door security.

Engineered to provide outstanding protection against today's most common methods of forced entry, the ISEO R700 S3 features a patented locking mechanism and has been independently tested to rigorous UK security standards.

It has achieved TS007 3 Star certification and Secure Diamond accreditation, giving installers and homeowners confidence that the cylinder meets the highest recognised levels of domestic door security.

The cylinder incorporates a range of advanced security features, including anti-snap technology with sacrificial sections and an internal protection mechanism that helps maintain the security of the door even if the cylinder is subjected to a snapping attack.

Additional anti-drill protection is provided through hardened drill-resistant components, while resistance to specialist attack methods is enhanced with Ice Attack Protection. A tungsten carbide cam assembly further improves both durability and security.

Designed with ease of use as well as security in mind, the ISEO R700 S3 benefits from precision engineering and tight manufacturing tolerances, delivering smooth, reliable operation throughout its service life. The cylinder is available in both key/key and thumb turn configurations to suit a wide range of residential applications.

The addition of the ISEO R700 S3 High Security Cylinder to the Hörmann Truedor range provides installers with an even stronger proposition, combining attractive door designs with market-leading levels of security, long-term reliability and added value for homeowners.

www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

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DHF launches new smart-scannable CSCS cards

2026-09-14T10:00:00.000+01:00

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has launched a new generation of smart-scannable CSCS cards for professionals working across the door, gate and loading-bay industries, helping construction sites quickly and easily verify the competence, qualifications and training of operatives.

The new physical cards feature a smart scannable chip which authorised site personnel, including site managers, supervisors, security teams and induction teams, can scan using the CSCS Smart Check app. This provides access to verified, up-to-date information held securely on the cardholder’s record, including qualifications, completed DHF training, occupational endorsements and expiry information.

Rather than storing information directly on the card itself, the smart scannable card links to a secure database which means that records can be updated as operatives complete further training, achieve qualifications or gain additional endorsements, providing a more accurate and current picture of their competence. DHF will manage the processing and administration of card applications, continuing its commitment to supporting high standards of competence and safety across the industries it represents.

“Competence is at the heart of everything we do, and these new smart-scannable CSCS cards provide a simple and reliable way for sites to confirm that operatives have the right training and qualifications for the work they are carrying out”, explains DHF’s CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens.

“The construction industry is continually evolving, and people’s skills and knowledge develop throughout their careers. Having access to an up-to-date digital record means employers and site teams can see a more complete picture of an individual’s competence, rather than solely relying only on information printed on a card. This is another important step in helping to improve safety, traceability and professional standards across the door, gate and loading-bay sectors.”

The new cards build on DHF’s existing CSCS Partner Card Scheme, which was established in collaboration with the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) in 2019. The scheme supports professionals working across a wide range of occupations, including industrial doors and shutters, domestic garage doors, automated gates and traffic barriers, metal and timber doors, as well as loading-bay equipment. Existing cardholders will receive the new smart-scannable card when they renew their current card.

“The introduction of smart-scannable cards provides site teams with a faster and more reliable way to confirm that operatives have the appropriate skills, qualifications and training for their role,” concludes Patricia.

“By enabling records to be updated as further learning and development takes place, the new system recognises that competence is built over time and supports continuous improvement across the sector. Through this latest development, DHF continues to raise standards across the industries it represents, helping employers, contractors and site teams improve safety, confidence and accountability on construction sites.”

For further information about DHF CSCS cards, applications and the scheme, visit the DHF website, www.dhfonline.org.uk/cscs-card

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McLaren Trophy America announces 2027 calendar

2026-09-13T09:00:00.000+01:00

McLaren Trophy America will return in 2027 with an exciting five-event, 10-race calendar that will see the IMSA-sanctioned championship staged alongside some of the biggest competitions in American motorsport.

The varied calendar includes Formula 1, INDYCAR, IMSA and FIA WEC weekends, reinforcing McLaren Trophy America’s position as a premier class one-make racing championship and providing competitors with the opportunity to race at world-class venues in front of major motorsport audiences.

A highlight of the new season will be the return of McLaren Trophy America to the Formula 1 package at the Miami Grand Prix. Following the championship’s successful appearance in Miami this year, the series will once again give competitors the opportunity to race on one of North America’s highest-profile motorsport stages.

The 2027 season will begin at Barber Motorsports Park, where McLaren Trophy America will join the INDYCAR race weekend for the opening two rounds. A new circuit to the championship, it will pose a new challenge racing alongside America’s premier single seater series. Following Miami, a new partnership with IMSA will bring McLaren Trophy America to two of North America’s most celebrated circuits.

Rounds five and six will take place at Watkins Glen International from June 24 - 26, before the championship returns to Virginia International Raceway for rounds seven and eight from August 20 - 22. The collaboration with IMSA represents an exciting new chapter for McLaren Trophy America, placing the championship and its competitors in front of one of North America’s most established and passionate sports car racing audiences.

The season will then conclude on another major international stage at Circuit of The Americas from September 10 - 12. McLaren Trophy America will, for the first time, support the FIA World Endurance Championship event at Circuit of the Americas, with the final two races deciding the 2027 championship titles. A moment made even more exciting as McLaren races in the Hypercar and LMGT3 categories of the Lone Star Le Mans.

“2027 is shaping up to be an exceptional season for McLaren Trophy America. Returning to the Formula 1 weekend in Miami is undoubtedly one of the highlights, and we are equally excited to open the season alongside INDYCAR at Barber and conclude it with the FIA World Endurance Championship at Circuit of The Americas.

“Our new partnership with IMSA is another hugely important step for the championship. The 2027 calendar offers exactly the kind of experience McLaren Trophy America was created to deliver,” said Giorgio Sanna, Head of Motorsport, McLaren Automotive.

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A New Industry Event is Coming…

2026-09-12T09:00:00.000+01:00

For more than a decade, Clearview Group has been at the heart of the glazing, door, security and hardware sectors through Clearview, Pro Installer, Locksmith Journal and Door Industry Journal.

Every month, our publications connect with around 60,000 industry professionals. We report on the products shaping the market, celebrate the achievements of businesses across the sector and help bring customers, suppliers and industry professionals together.

When Door Industry Journal joined the Clearview Group family, we described it as the missing piece of the puzzle. It completed our publishing portfolio and strengthened our ability to represent the many connected sectors that make up today's industry.

Over recent years, that bigger picture has become increasingly clear.

The way businesses operate has changed.

Companies are working across multiple markets. Windows, doors, hardware, security, automation, access control and smart technologies are increasingly connected. The industry has evolved; and the opportunities have evolved with it.

Alongside our publishing activities, Clearview Group has always believed in bringing people together. Our successful Lockex 2016 and Lockex 2018 exhibitions created valuable opportunities for businesses to meet, network and showcase innovation. A further event was planned for 2020 before the pandemic changed the landscape for exhibitions.

Since then, the ambition to create another industry event has remained.

Following conversations with businesses across our customer base, it is clear there is a strong appetite for an event that reflects the industry as it is today, bringing together the companies, products and people that make up the complete supply chain.

So, we're pleased to confirm... We're doing it.

In Spring 2028, Clearview Group will launch a brand-new trade exhibition, in a central location.

A place where the industries we serve come together.

A place where new products will be launched, new relationships will be built and existing ones strengthened.

A place where the pages of our magazines come to life.

More details will be revealed very soon.

OPENEX 2028

Telford – 8-10 June 2028

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