The Door Industry Journal

Saturday, 21 December 2024

JELD-WEN UK Recognised for Health and Safety with BWF Award Win

JELD-WEN UK has won the Health and Safety award at this year’s British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards.

Now in its sixteenth year, the BWF Awards took place at the prestigious Langham Hotel, Central London on 22nd November 2024. Each year, the awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding skills, talent and achievements of the UK woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry.

JELD-WEN took home the Health and Safety award in recognition of its innovative technology, used to protect pedestrians from moving industrial vehicles. Combining Radio Frequency and True AI cameras, its new system creates a detection zone around each vehicle, triggering an audible and visual warning, and the automatically slowing and stopping the vehicle if a pedestrian comes into its proximity.

The BWF judges recognised that this initiative is a significant investment in emerging RFID and AI technologies to help manage safety and protect employees, any external supply chain drivers, and visitors. They commended JELD-WEN for “focusing on risk reduction and demonstrating a clear commitment to safety improvement, in what is currently one of the highest severity risk areas at work.”

Marcin Bacik, EHS Manager at JELD-WEN Penrith said:

“The health and safety category was incredibly competitive this year, so we see this award as a real accolade and testament to our forward-thinking and dedicated team. Since we have launched the True Ai and Radio Tag Frequency systems initiative, key risks are significantly lower, and safety improvements have been realised across the board. We believe our continued efforts to embed world-class health and safety practices into our JELD-WEN culture has been deservedly recognised.”

Hamish White, Operation Director at JELD-WEN UK adds:

“Health and safety is paramount within the sector, and we remain unrelenting in our aim to eliminate risk. I congratulate all of the team at our Penrith factory for their tremendous achievements. They are a fantastic example of living our JELD-WEN value that we build business ethically and safely.”

JELD-WEN is the UK’s largest manufacturer of high-quality timber interior and exterior doors. The company has factories in Sheffield and Penrith, with extensive experience spanning decades in delivering quality joinery solutions to customers across the UK.

JELD-WEN employs approximately 21,000 people worldwide and has manufacturing, distribution, and showroom locations across 24 countries, located primarily in North America, Europe and Australia.

To find out more, visit www.jeld-wen.co.uk

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Friday, 20 December 2024

Warringtonfire Gives Customers Sneak Peak of State-of-the-Art Laboratory Ahead of Launch

Two exclusive open days have enabled customers to see Warringtonfire’s state-of-the-art fire resistance testing laboratory in person prior to its official opening.

Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology (“Element”), is set to launch its new flagship fire facility in just over one month’s time.

With construction now finished and handover from its contractors complete, the $30m, 101,000 square foot facility in Birchwood Park will be in operation from 2 January 2025.

Ahead of the launch, over 100 fire safety professionals and customers of Warringtonfire were given access to the laboratory on 12 and 13 November.

Across four separate sessions over the two days, attendees were shown the magnitude of one of Europe’s largest fire testing laboratories through a guided tour, along with presentations and a networking event to meet Warringtonfire’s team of technical experts.

Customers were able to preview the cutting-edge fire testing equipment and furnaces, Warringonfire’s enhanced capabilities, and client welfare amenities that the facility offers.

Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager at Warringtonfire, also briefed visitors on the evolution of Warringtonfire’s services to address the industry’s growing fire resistance testing needs, through a presentation titled ‘Construction Products and the Changing Regulatory Landscape’.

Delegates were able to learn how the new legislation is shaping the regulatory landscape for construction products, and subsequently influencing conformity assessment activities within the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) industry.

Leigh Hill, Director of Element’s Built Environment Europe division, said:

“The Customer Open Days have been a fantastic success.

“It was a great opportunity for our customers to meet the team and learn more about our operations, and to really showcase the scale and efficiency of the Birchwood Park site.

“In true demonstration of our broad service offering and multidisciplinary expertise, our testing, technical and certification experts provided collaborative answers to customer questions.

“This is something our clients can continue to benefit from, since the three teams are now located under one roof.

“This gives us the ability to deliver a streamlined end-to-end process to a higher standard with the latest technology.

“Now that construction has finished, the team will be focusing on UKAS validation and accreditation for its five furnaces and operations, which should be complete by the end of November.

“While this is taking place, we are gradually transitioning our fire resistance team from the Holmesfield Road laboratory to Birchwood Park as they prepare for the launch.

“We have been able to fill 50 further jobs as part of the expansion, including maintenance engineer, technical officer, and technical assistant positions.”

Attendee feedback following the open days has been extremely positive.

Shaun Davidson, Director at SGD Fire Protection Ltd, a passive fire protection specialist, said:

“We're incredibly lucky to have such a world-class facility right here in the North West!”.

Meanwhile, Tom Owen, Technical Engineer at Etex, said:

“First impressions of the new facility overall are very positive.

“The sheer scale of the site was impressive, and the layout was very intuitive.

“I didn’t expect that three tests could run simultaneously and the possible maximum number of tests that can be done is staggering.”

Leigh added:

“The positive response from customers is very reassuring.

“We have meticulously designed the new laboratory with clients as the top priority, intentionally incorporating confidential spray booths, each with its own temperature-controlled environment, as well as custom-made steel screens that can be attached to test preparation bays to protect intellectual property.

“We have also opted for dedicated client viewing areas to ensure privacy and are in the process of trialling additional confidentiality measures to further safeguard sensitive information”.

To ensure that the laboratory acts not just as a testing site but an environment where meetings can be conducted, Warringtonfire has put in ample amenities for employees and customers.

This includes 175 parking bays and 10 EV charging stations.

The site also features accessible welfare facilities like shower and locker rooms, five meeting rooms, three conference rooms, and a lift to platform viewing areas.

For more about Warringtonfire’s Birchwood Park laboratory, please visit www.warringtonfire.com/about-warringtonfire/warrington-site-relocation-and-expansion

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Thursday, 19 December 2024

RollMatic T Customer Trip to Germany

Following on from the series of RollMatic T roadshows organised by Hörmann UK during the summer and autumn, early December saw a group of fourteen prize draw winners embark on a trip to Germany - ready to enjoy some good German hospitality and the chance to see the Hörmann Group up close.

The visit included a visit to the Forum Exhibition Centre in Steinhagen, where the Group exhibits its’ worldwide product range – an inspiring venue and display which never fails to impress.

They also enjoyed a visit and in-depth tour of the RollMatic production facility at Amshausen.

Having recently undergone an extensive automation programme upgrade, everyone had the opportunity to see the state-of-the-art manufacturing process from start to finish, with experts from the production team on hand to answer any questions.

The traditional Christmas market in Bielefeld certainly proved to be a highlight of the visit, with the chance to do some early Christmas shopping and sample an abundance of German fayre (plenty of beer and sausages).

For further information on Hörmann UK RollMatic T roller garage doors visit or call 01530 516868.

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Wednesday, 18 December 2024

Northcote Manor Country House Hotel & Spa Enhances Guest Security with Mul-T-Lock

Nestled in the scenic countryside near Umberleigh, Northcote Manor Country House Hotel & Spa combines award-winning accommodation, fine dining, and a tranquil spa.

This 18th-century country house is devoted to providing elegance and security for its guests.

Partnering with local locksmith experts, Keyhole Surgery upgraded its security management by installing a Mul-T-Lock MTL™300 master key suite.

Mul-T-Lock’s MTL™300 master key system offers ideal security for Northcote Manor’s 16 guest rooms.

The suite enhances safety across the hotel, giving management precise control over key access while ensuring guests' peace of mind.

Richie Herkes, General Manager of Northcote Manor Country House Hotel & Spa, commented:

“At our beautiful Georgian manor, dating back to Tudor times, we’re committed to providing our guests with a serene and secure environment.

“We trusted David to deliver an upgrade to our room security’s existing system that could accommodate.

“He recommended the Mul-T-Lock MTL™300 master key suite as a secure yet discreet access management across all rooms and common areas, improving our operations without compromising style.”

With the Mul-T-Lock MTL™300 master key suite, management can establish a hierarchical access structure, ensuring only those with the appropriate permissions can enter restricted room areas at any given time.

The capability to manage multiple permission levels adds a critical layer of security, minimising unauthorised access and enhancing operational efficiency.

David Pearcy of Keyhole Surgery explained why the MTL™300 was the ideal choice for the upgrade:

“For a distinguished property like Northcote Manor, it was essential to implement a high-security solution that wouldn’t interfere with the building’s stunning historic appeal.
“The Mul-T-Lock MTL™300 suite provides the right balance with a cylinder design that is easy to install on existing doors.
“The master key system allows staff to access essential areas quickly and efficiently, reducing the need for multiple keys and improving overall management.”

The Mul-T-Lock MTL™300 master key suite minimises keys in operation for Northcote Manor, whilst maintaining a secure, flexible, and efficient access management system specifically designed to give authorised personnel-controlled access to the hotel’s rooms and facilities.

Ian Thresher, Mul-T-Lock regional sales manager for the South-West, shared his thoughts on the partnership:

“Northcote Manor’s decision to work with Keyhole Surgery as an established Mul-T-Lock authorised dealer and to implement the MTL™300 master key suite reflects a forward-thinking approach to hospitality security.

“MTL™300 offers an elegant, streamlined solution that aligns perfectly with the hotel’s dedication to both guest comfort and operational excellence.

“By reducing key clutter and enabling precise security management, this system helps Northcote Manor retain its renowned beauty and charm safely for many, many years to come.”

Find out more at https://www.mul-t-lock.com/uk/en

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Tuesday, 17 December 2024

DSI Ltd Sets the Standard in Aluminium and Automatic Door Solutions for the Trade

Yorkshire-based DSI Ltd is quickly becoming the go-to manufacturer for trade professionals seeking top-quality aluminium and automatic doors delivered UK-wide.

Offering a comprehensive supply-only service to the trade, DSI is gaining attention for its fast delivery times, bespoke solutions, and extensive industry expertise.

With over 25 years of experience under its belt, DSI Ltd prides itself on transforming basic site surveys into fully detailed plans for automatic and aluminium commercial doors.

The company’s knowledge of the industry ensures that every project is specified correctly, taking into account safety standards and legal requirements.

A Unique Approach to Door Manufacturing

One of the key benefits for DSI’s trade clients is the company’s ability to handle the finer details. Customers can submit basic site surveys, and DSI will handle the rest.

This includes producing comprehensive drawings, which are sent back to the customer for approval before the manufacturing process begins.

It’s a streamlined process that has resulted in a reputation for accuracy and reliability.

Trade customers also benefit from DSI’s incredibly fast turnaround times.

While many in the industry can take weeks or even months to deliver, DSI commits to getting door sets ready in just two to three weeks from confirmed drawings—one of the shortest lead times available.

Reliability and Quality at the Core

DSI’s product line focuses on aluminium and automatic doors for commercial applications, with a variety of options available.

The company offers standard and thermally broken aluminium sections designed for optimal energy efficiency and durability performance.

These are paired with Record automatic door equipment, renowned for its reliability and efficiency in commercial settings.

From start to finish, DSI utilises failsafe check systems at every stage of production.

This ensures that every door set meets the highest standards before delivery.

The company’s approach has allowed it to maintain an exceptional completion rate, with nearly all orders delivered in under three weeks—an impressive feat in an industry where delays are often the norm.

A Commitment to Customer Support

But DSI’s service doesn’t end at the manufacturing stage.

The company also offers a range of after-sales services designed to support its trade customers.

DSI provides full training on automatic door equipment to ensure proper installation and operation.

Alternatively, they can handle equipment commissioning on behalf of customers, all while adhering to BS EN16005 and BS7036:0 standards.

This hands-on support gives trade customers the confidence they need, knowing their installations will be safe, compliant, and fully functional from day one.

Embracing Innovation in a Competitive Market

As the demand for efficient, reliable door systems grows, DSI Ltd has positioned itself as a leader in innovation.

Using the latest CNC and punch machinery, the company has streamlined its manufacturing process, allowing for faster production without compromising quality.

Each door is designed and built with mounting points reinforced in the right places to ensure durability and compliance with all relevant safety laws.

Looking to the future, DSI is committed to staying at the forefront of the industry.

Their bespoke door manufacturing service is designed to meet the evolving needs of trade professionals across the country.

With fast delivery, high-quality products, and unmatched technical support, DSI is a name to watch in the trade-only aluminium and automatic door market.

Find out more at https://dsilimited.co.uk/

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Monday, 16 December 2024

New ASO Radar Set to Replace Conventional Safety Devices

ASO’s new LISENS scan safety radar system is set to revolutionise the automation industry by providing an exciting new solution for automatic traffic barriers, gates and industrial doors.

This innovative system takes advantage of proven microwave radar technology to provide the industry with the first-of-its-kind, fully compliant (EN12453), safety-rated radar detection system for pedestrians and vehicles.

After over 24 months of field testing and in-house development, ASO is confident in the solutions' capabilities and the benefits they can bring to manufacturers and installers alike.

The LISENS scan system consists of a controller and up to 6 radar head units connected through a simple 2-wire bus system, allowing for easy connection and expansion.

Configuration is carried out using an embedded web server within the controller, which connects via an onboard secure Wi-Fi hotspot.

Once physically fitted, the system can be commissioned in minutes through the onboard software.

A selectable safety-rated output (8K2, FSS, NC) compatible with all major control systems is present.

In addition, the system has 2 further configurable ‘Warning’ zones that can be easily set up to carry out functions such as virtual loop detectors for vehicles or pedestrian-only triggering zones through their own selectable output.

With the traffic barrier version's launch scheduled for Q1 2025, ASO and its worldwide partners will be in a prime position to provide a complete, non-contact safety radar solution to its customers and distribution partners worldwide.

Stuart Roddy, National Sales Manager for EasyGates Direct, said:

“This system combines all the benefits of current non-contact solutions (Type E devices according to EN12453) with additional features and benefits that radar technology brings.

“We are convinced this system will solve many technical challenges for our customers where other technologies have previously faltered.

“Combined with our UK-wide dealer network and excellent technical support & training facilities, we look forward to ushering in a new era in non-contact safety for the UK barrier/gate/door markets.”

More details of this fantastic new safety product are available through ASO’s UK competence partner, EasyGates Direct, or via ASO’s own web and social media channels.

EasyGates Direct is a leading trade distributor of access control, automation, safety, and smart home products located in Halesowen, West Midlands.

They supply most products nationally and offer next-day delivery.

Find out more at www.easygatesdirect.co.uk/store/index.php

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Sunday, 15 December 2024

One of One: Ecurie Bertelli to sell unique Aston-Martin Razor Blade

Image credit: Matt Howell

Ecurie Bertelli, the pre-eminent global specialist in pre-war Aston Martin motor cars, has introduced the 1923 Aston Martin Razor Blade to the market for the first time since the 1980s.

The complete specialist racing car was originally built to break the one-hour ‘light car’ speed record with a focus on aerodynamics, reduced cross-section and lightweight performance.

One of the earliest motorsport examples of aerodynamic design, the Razor Blade’s bodywork, was manufactured by the de Havilland Aircraft Company.

Measuring just 18.5 inches at its widest point, the Razor Blade is believed to be the narrowest race car ever built, hence its unique name.

This is further reinforced by an inswept chassis, with a much narrower rear that gives it a distinctive look and driving characteristics.

The Razor Blade attempted to break the record – held by AC Cars – in 1923 at Brooklands.

While it maintained a record-breaking pace, the attempt was eventually abandoned after the race car repeatedly shed its front offside tyre at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour.

Image credit: James Cheyne

Later in the year, however, the Razor Blade was able to set a new record for the standing start mile and kilometre.

It went on to see racing success throughout the 1920s.

Bamford and Martin car, chassis number 1915, the Razor Blade’s slender bodywork conceals a bespoke race engine originally developed for the 1922 French Grand Prix.

The four-cylinder, twin overhead cam, 16-valve engine outputs 55 horsepower and was derived from half of a three-litre eight-cylinder Ballot engine.

It raced regularly until the 1950s, when it was sold to the Harrah Motor Museum in the USA, which eventually became the National Automobile Museum.

During this time, it was returned to the UK and placed into the care of Brooklands Museum, with the owner enjoying occasional racetrack forays.

It has previously appeared at Goodwood FoS and is currently able to race at numerous events, including VSCC, AMOC and Shuttleworth events.

Perhaps most surprisingly of all, the Razor Blade is road-registered and carries the plate XO9958.

Image credit: Matt Howell

With over 40 years of experience, Ecurie Bertelli is the world leader in pre-war Aston Martin motor car sales, care, repair, restoration, and conservation.

It is also the leading supplier of pre-war Aston Martin racing and event support worldwide.

Robert Blakemore, managing director at Ecurie Bertelli, commented:

“It is a privilege to introduce this truly unique racing motor car to the market.
“The Aston-Martin Razor Blade has a distinguished history and perfectly captures the 1920s motorsport spirit of innovation, endeavour and daring.
“Having undergone restoration in the 1980s, it has been well taken care of throughout its period of exhibition at Brooklands Museum.

“We welcome all interested parties to contact us directly to learn more.”

About Ecurie Bertelli

Ecurie Bertelli is the pre-eminent global sales and service specialist for pre-war Aston Martin motor cars.

Passionate about Aston-Martins, their unique heritage, and their continued enjoyment.

With more than 40 years' experience, they are experts in pre-war Aston Martin motor car sales, care, repair, restoration, and conservation.

They are the leading supplier of pre-war Aston Martin racing and event support worldwide.

With peerless, authentic technical expertise garnered over decades, EB is the acknowledged global specialist for discerning Aston Martin owners.

For more information, please visit ecuriebertelli.com

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Saturday, 14 December 2024

Reunion For Garador’s Longest Serving Area Sales Managers

A group of former Garador area sales managers, many well-known across Britain’s door and building trade, gathered together recently for a reunion at the company’s head office in Somerset.

The event included some of Garador’s longest serving employees, with a few having dedicated over 30 or even 40 years to the company.

Garador said they organised the day as a celebration and also to show their appreciation.

“During their years and decades with us, many of our employees became very good friends and still catch up regularly,” said Garador’s marketing co-ordinator Ben Parkin, who helped to organise the day.

“In those days they would often attend meetings together here at Garador, but they are spread right across the country. We felt this would be an opportunity to bring everyone back together.”

In picture, from left to right: Steve Crowther; Clive Dancer; Rob Ashworth; Denise Carslake; Wayne Chafe; Gerry Watson; Nick Dyke (centre forefront)

Former area sales manager Gerry Watson came down to the event from Perth in Scotland, and said it was wonderful to meet up again with his former colleagues and have a chance to reminisce and share memories.

“I started with Garador in 1993 and I am still very proud to have worked for them,” he said. “In those days there were no emails so we did things by post and also with personal contact. We built up so many relationships and made very good friendships. Getting together again today is wonderful. Garador has always been a caring company and it is so nice of them to do this for us; it really is lovely to come back,” he added.

After a lunch accompanied by talking, laughter and catching up with some of their previous colleagues, the group was taken on a factory tour and, for some, the changes were immense.

“I joined Garador in 1965,” said Alec Lancombe who now lives in Somerset. “I started as a machine setter and then went through various roles but now everything has changed. The factory is now so modern with computer control and solar panels… things I wouldn’t have dreamed of when I first started work.”

Jon Watson, Garador’s managing director, said he was delighted the event went so well.

“Garador is sometimes described as one big happy family, and certainly that was the atmosphere at this luncheon,” he said. “Our manufacturing processes and indeed our doors have changed dramatically since the days when most of them started, but clearly the friendships have stayed the same and that was lovely to see.”

Garador is Britain’s leading garage door manufacturer, with a history dating back to the late 1940s. The company now operates from a state of the art factory complex just outside Yeovil in Somerset and supplies the latest in garage doors and garage door technology to merchants, builders and developers right across the country.

www.garador.co.uk

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Friday, 13 December 2024

Access 360, ERA and Zoo Raise More Than £6,000 for Movember

Employees at leading home security, hardware and fenestration component providers, Access 360, ERA and Zoo Hardware have raised more than £6,000 for men’s health through Movember activity.

Members of Access 360,ERA and Zoo Hardware teams showed their support for the annual fundraising drive by either growing a moustache or walking or running more than 60km across November.

More than £3,500 in individual donations were backed up by a £2,500 boost from ERA Home Security, taking the total to just over £6,000.

A total of 766 kilometres were covered across the month, while many grew out beards, moustaches and goatees in line with the Movember tradition. Some went even further by carrying out individual events such as bake sales.

The team’s biggest fundraiser was Warehouse Operator, Jason Worwood, who raised £410, while Warehouse Manager, Mike Rathbone covered the largest distance at 179km.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, boosting men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men. The campaign has funded groundbreaking projects all over the world, while engaging with men to understand what works best for them to accelerate change.

Stacey Edwards, HR Director, said:

“We’re incredibly proud of our team and the collective effort to support Movember this year. They’ve raised a fantastic total and put in a huge effort to raise funds and back the cause.

“It’s also contributed to a really positive atmosphere around the workplace, with everyone encouraging each other and doing what Movember is supposed to; raise awareness and open up conversations on men’s health.

“As an organisation, we think it’s crucial to play our part in supporting our employees' charitable work, so we’re delighted to make a contribution as recognition of their efforts.”

Find our more about Movember here > movember.com

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Thursday, 12 December 2024

Letterplates should not be forgotten in building regulations requirements

Door hardware manufacturer ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand, is encouraging door manufacturers to ensure letterplates meet building regulations requirements and are not the weak link when it comes to door security.

Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations calls for doors and windows to be able to resist unauthorised access. This includes protection against letterbox fishing – a common technique used by criminals to steal possessions within easy reach of a door.

It covers security in new homes and applies to retrofit and refurbishment of existing homes at the time the work was done.

It follows the latest data released in July 2024 from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW), showing that entry via a door occurred in 72% of reported burglaries between April 2022 and March 2023.

Andy Matthews, head of sales at HOPPE (UK) said:

“Letterplates are an often-forgotten consideration for door security, but the right product is a powerful protection against letterbox fishing burglaries.

“The mix of regulations and industry standards to consider on door security can be complex to navigate. Door sets must now adhere to PAS24:2022 on enhanced security performance for doorsets and windows in the UK, which replaced the old standard in September 2024.

“The standard refers to Building Regulations Approved Document Q, which confirms letterplates should have a maximum aperture of 260mm x 40mm. They should be designed to hinder anyone who attempts to remove keys with sticks or inserts their hand – and located on a doorset in a way that prevents this too. This might be achieved, for example, by incorporating a flap or other features to restrict access.”

Door manufacturers should also check specifications for confirmation that the product has been tested to the Door and Hardware Federation’s (DHF) technical specification TS 008:2022, on ‘Enhanced Security and General Requirements for Letter Plate Assemblies and Slide Through Boxes’. This has been shown to protect against letterbox fishing attacks.

ARRONE’s new AR708HS TS 008:2022 letterplate is tested in accordance with this technical specification. As well as meeting Approved Document Q requirements, it offers protection from key fishing by opportunistic burglars looking to gain entry via a front door.

“While the overall trend indicates that we’re becoming much savvier when it comes to security, doors are often still a target for opportunist burglars,” warns Andy.

“Homeowners are becoming much more aware of the need to protect their property, but the rise of video doorbells and other smart devices mean that when considering their home security, they often think of the latest technology and other visual deterrents like burglar alarms first.

“They sometimes aren’t aware of the role that high-quality door hardware plays in deterring and even preventing certain burglary methods.”

More information is available on ARRONE’s TS 008:2022 tested letterplate here: AR708HS

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