The Door Industry Journal

Friday, 9 October 2026

DHF issues guidance on Machinery Legislation

The European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC will be fully withdrawn on 21st January 2027, following a three-year co-existence period, and replaced by the new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. The change will have implications for machinery manufacturers in the UK, depending on where they operate and whether they place products on the market with a CE or UKCA mark.

The new Regulation introduces a number of changes from the existing Directive. These include provisions covering emerging technologies and the use of digital documentation, as well as additional requirements for third-party assessment of certain safety products.

It also places responsibilities on other parties within the supply chain to ensure that transportation or storage does not affect a product’s compliance. Importers and distributors will also have responsibilities where they believe a product does not comply with the relevant requirements.

For UK manufacturers of powered doors, the current requirements are set out in the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 (SMSR), which implemented the European Machinery Directive into UK legislation. The introduction of the European Machinery Regulation therefore creates different considerations for UK manufacturers, depending on their location and the markets in which their products are placed.

The UK Government has made revisions to the SMSR, but these have so far been focused on enabling CE marking to continue in Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework and permitting CE-marked products to be imported into the UK in accordance with existing guidance.

The Government has stated that it does not intend simply to introduce the European Machinery Regulation into UK legislation. Rather, a new UK regulation is expected to broadly follow the European Regulation while reflecting the requirements of the UK market. There is currently no confirmed timescale for its introduction.

To help members understand the changes and manage the current position, DHF has issued a new guidance document on Machinery Legislation. The document explains the requirements that apply to manufacturers according to their circumstances and provides guidance for companies and individuals elsewhere in the supply chain.

DHF members can access the guidance document via this link: https://bit.ly/3SLOcFZ

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Thursday, 8 October 2026

Sixty Years of Garage Automation, and Still on First-Name Terms

Chamberlain has built automation for garage doors and gates since the 1960s. In the UK and Ireland, six decades of that history still comes down to people who really know each other...

Chamberlain has been building automation for garage and gate doors since the 1960s. This year, the wider industry turns 100: the overhead garage door opener was invented in 1926, a milestone LiftMaster's own UK page marked on LinkedIn, a few months back.

Six decades of history now sit behind a platform trusted by more than 15 million myQ users worldwide, rated 4.8 out of 5 from over 2.4 million ratings on the Apple App Store (myQ Garage & Access Control, The Chamberlain Group). That heritage is a big part of why installers trust the platform in the first place. But when there's a service request on site which nobody recognises, what matters is who picks up the phone.

In this issue, we also cover how the Garage Door Operators and Gate Operators share one radio, one accessory range, and one app — “Everything You Need, One Partner Away.”

Not just a product, not just a job

What we've built with our partners in the UK over the years is, truly, what makes this job worth doing. It's professionals who actually talk to each other — compare notes at a trade show, ring each other up, come back to the same names year after year. Not numbers on a spreadsheet. Personalities and meeting customer requirements, not just a product line.

None of which lets the product off the hook, mind. An extremely low, 0.1% failure rate and up to 5 years' warranty on the complete product, with an additional electric motor warranty of up to 10 years on selected models in the EVX range, depending on the specific product (source: LiftMaster EU Warranty Declaration), which still does a lot of heavy lifting. This means fewer callbacks and fewer awkward conversations on site. Installers remember that.

The name behind the number: Andrew Buckler

Sales & Technical Support for the UK and Ireland have been Andrew's patch for 24 years. Ring the office and you get to Andrew directly, not a queue. He's just as well-known inside LiftMaster as he is outside it — genuinely one of the most valued colleagues on the wider European team, not just a name on an email signature. Ask anyone who's worked with him, and they'll say the same thing: properly knowledgeable, always ready to help, and good company with it.

Andrew works alongside a wider European team covering customer service, forecasting and logistics, led by our General Manager Kate Rose, who is also UK-based.

Regular business reviews keep stock and growth plans aligned rather than being a once-a-year surprise, and LiftMaster keeps a clear, actively managed channel structure so partners aren't undercut in their own market — backed, too, by active partnerships with leading regulatory and industry bodies that we input into and learn from, including the DHF.

Classic communication, backed by digital tools: a phone call or an email gets you the person responsible for your account — before, during and after the sale.

Becoming a partner

None of that counts for much if the person behind it isn't reachable. So, call Andrew, email him, or catch him on the stand — that's genuinely the fastest way in.

liftmaster.eu | Andrew.Buckler@chamberlain.com I +44 (0) 7796148957

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Wednesday, 7 October 2026

Why Ultion developed ALPS Plus

When Ultion ALPS launched, it was the first cylinder to pass the updated PAS24:2022+A1:2024 standard and the Sold Secure Diamond 2024 test. At the time, no other cylinder on the market could say the same.

The industry has moved on since then. Other manufacturers have caught up with the standard, which is exactly what should happen. Higher compliance across the board is good for everyone, including homeowners.

But at Ultion, meeting a standard has never been the finish line.

How testing has evolved

The compliance deadline is approaching and any cylinder supplied into PAS24 applications must meet the updated standard. The same applies to Sold Secure SS312, which has been updated to include the same four additional attack methods.

What's less well understood is that beyond the written standard, the way products are actually tested has also evolved. Accredited test houses in the UK are now applying more sophisticated techniques within the existing test parameters. A cylinder can pass the standard and still not hold up to the methods being used in practice.

Scott Brittain, Head of Technical at Ultion, explains: "The standard itself hasn't changed, but the way products are being tested has evolved. We've developed ALPS Plus specifically to withstand the techniques now being used by accredited test houses, not just to meet the minimum required on paper."

What ALPS Plus offers

ALPS Plus is Ultion's most secure cylinder, built on the foundation of ALPS but enhanced to keep pace with how testing and real-world attack methods are developing. It is fully PAS24:2022+A1:2024 compliant, meets the updated Sold Secure SS312 2024 standard and comes with KeyControl as standard to block unauthorised key copies. It is available in keyed alike sets so one key can open every Ultion lock on a property and features a thick dimple key for added resistance to snapping.

ALPS Plus is available to trade now. Contact your Ultion account manager or visit www.brisant-secure.com/login/ for more information.

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Tuesday, 6 October 2026

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

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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Monday, 5 October 2026

Marantec Gives You More: Customer Service

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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Sunday, 4 October 2026

A Fire Door Framework: Why Every Component Counts

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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Saturday, 3 October 2026

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

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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Friday, 2 October 2026

Durable and Hygienic Double Action Doors from Hörmann UK

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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Thursday, 1 October 2026

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

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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Wednesday, 30 September 2026

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

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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