The Door Industry Journal

Friday, 13 March 2026

Competency, compliance and fire door training

Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM – Training & Development

For years, fire door competence has been built in fragments: a classroom course here, an on-the-job briefing there, documents to read and sign. The result is often a well-intentioned but under-supported workforce, where compliance becomes a tick-box exercise and knowledge is siloed across a supply chain that does not always speak the same technical language.

The Grenfell Inquiry reinforced how dangerous this fragmentation can be. Fire doors, the last line of defence in compartmentation, can be compromised by small decisions that seem minor in isolation: a closer that is not adjusted correctly, or a hinge changed without understanding the test evidence behind the door set. None of these look like non-compliance in the moment but in a fire they can be the difference between containment and catastrophe.

Why theory is not enough

Much of the industry’s training has historically been weighted towards theory rather than practical application. People may understand regulations in principle yet lack confidence when standing in front of a live fire door, with real tolerances, real frames, real hardware and the pressure to complete work quickly.

If standards are to rise, the way competence is built must evolve. Not just through information and attendance, but through practice, decision-making and assessment. Hands-on training environments that reflect real building contexts allow competence to be developed in conditions that mirror on-site risk. At FDM, this thinking informed the creation of a purpose-built Training Academy, and now a second training centre in partnership with the FPA, designed to make competence practical - because the risk is practical.

Competence across the whole lifecycle

A fire door’s performance is shaped by multiple decisions: specification, procurement, installation, inspection, repair, replacement and record-keeping. When roles are trained in isolation, the industry may achieve pockets of competence but remains systemically vulnerable.

One of the most persistent weaknesses remains maintenance. There is still a tendency towards “we can fix anything”, even when repair compromises certification and performance. Too often, fire doors fail not because the product is wrong, but because they are not installed, inspected or maintained correctly over time. Maintaining performance requires specialist knowledge, yet this remains one of the most under-resourced parts of the lifecycle.

A more robust model is holistic. Compliance is not owned by a single individual or solved by one “golden” product. It is achieved when every link in the chain understands what good looks like and why. Assessment must sit at the heart of competence-building, providing consistency and a clearer basis for accountability.

The Golden Thread is a competence issue

As the sector moves towards traceable, accessible information under the “Golden Thread” of building safety, the challenge is often framed as digital. In reality, it is also a competence issue. A perfect record of poor decisions is not progress. The value lies in understanding which evidence matters, how to avoid inappropriate substitutions and how to maintain performance over time, and then being able to record that work in a way that stands up to scrutiny.

This also changes the profile of skills the industry needs. Paperwork is no longer an afterthought and the ability to evidence work is now part of what it means to be competent.

Confidence as the new compliance

Encouragingly, momentum is building. Over the past 18 months, more than 1,200 professionals from across the fire door supply chain have been trained through FDM programmes, including those influencing product choice, managing estates, certifying work and carrying legal responsibility. Yet the sector still faces a shortage of trained installers, inspectors and maintenance professionals, and scaling capability will take time.

What is clear is that people do not resist higher standards, they resist uncertainty. There is a strong appetite to do the right thing, but it must be supported by training that reflects real-world conditions and provides clarity about what competence looks like for different roles.

www.fdmltd.com

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Thursday, 12 March 2026

Jewers opens doors in India

Jewers Doors, the British engineering specialist in aircraft hangar door systems, has announced the establishment of its wholly owned subsidiary in India.

The strategic move directly aligns with the Government of India’s flagship initiatives of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, reinforcing Jewers Doors’ long-term commitment to localisation, skills development, and sustained engagement across India’s civil and defence aviation sectors. The new subsidiary also positions India as a regional centre of excellence for South Asia and neighbouring markets, supporting the country’s ambition to emerge as a global aviation and MRO hub.

India represents one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally, driven by unprecedented aircraft induction, airport expansion, and the emergence of a strong domestic MRO ecosystem. Jewers Doors’ decision to establish a wholly owned Indian entity reflects its confidence in the country’s long-term aviation trajectory and its intent to play a meaningful role in supporting next-generation aviation infrastructure.

Chris Jewers, Managing Director of Jewers Doors, said: “India represents one of the most important aviation growth markets globally, and our decision to establish a wholly owned subsidiary reflects our confidence in the country’s long-term trajectory. This is not a short-term market entry; it is a strategic commitment to India, underpinned by localisation, engineering excellence, and long-term partnership. We see India not just as a market, but as a centre of excellence for South Asia and beyond.”

He added that the company’s growing experience delivering mission-critical aviation infrastructure in India has been instrumental in shaping this decision, and that Jewers Doors looks forward to contributing meaningfully to the country’s next phase of aviation and MRO capability development.

The announcement has also been welcomed by the British High Commission in India, highlighting the strengthening industrial and aviation ties between the two countries.

Jaya Choraria, Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia at the British High Commission in India, said: “I congratulate Jewers Doors on the establishment of their wholly owned subsidiary in India. This investment underscores the ever-strengthening partnership between our two countries and the growing appetite amongst British businesses to invest in India’s dynamic aviation and infrastructure sectors. Jewers Doors’ commitment to localisation, skills development, and long-term engagement aligns with our shared ambition to build resilient, future-ready industrial collaboration, which will be further boosted by the landmark UK–India Free Trade Agreement signed in July 2025.”

This landmark project for the INDIA 1 VVIP Squadron stands as a defining reference, demonstrating Jewers Doors’ ability to deliver mission-critical aviation infrastructure where security, precision, reliability, and national importance converge. Among the most sensitive and demanding aviation infrastructure assignments anywhere in the world, the project reflects the company’s engineering capability, security compliance, and execution discipline.

Jewers Doors offers one of the most comprehensive and technically advanced portfolios of engineered door systems globally, including:

Esavian Aircraft Hangar Doors – Featuring the renowned 126-SBR and 400 Series systems, offering unlimited width and height capability, advanced safety architecture, superior weather sealing, and integration with proprietary Hangar Door Management Systems (HDMS).

Phoenix Industrial Doors – Including the Swift, Osprey, and Kingfisher ranges, designed for aviation support facilities, MRO workshops, logistics centres, and ancillary infrastructure.

High-Performance & Specialist Doors – Acoustic, blast-resistant, and high-security doors engineered for defence aviation, engine test cells, and sensitive installations.

Every solution is bespoke by design, engineered to site-specific wind loads, climatic conditions, security requirements, and architectural intent, an approach particularly critical for India’s diverse and challenging environmental conditions.

With India poised to become one of the world’s largest aviation and MRO markets over the next decade, Jewers Doors views the country as a strategic cornerstone of its Asia-Pacific growth strategy. By combining British engineering heritage, global project execution expertise, and a growing local footprint, the company is positioning itself to support India’s next generation of aviation infrastructure, securely, sustainably, and at scale.

The establishment of the Indian subsidiary marks not just an expansion of operations but a long-term partnership with India’s aviation ecosystem, reinforcing Jewers Doors’ role as a trusted infrastructure enabler for both civil and defence aviation across the region.

www.jewersdoors.co.uk

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Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Maison Cadiou: French craftsmanship, engineered for excellence

Maison Cadiou is a French manufacturer specialising in premium gates, fencing, pergolas and carports. From our workshops in Brittany, we design and produce our full range in-house, combining heritage craftsmanship with modern industrial expertise.

Our story begins in Locronan, a historic Breton village close to the Atlantic coast. This is where our products are designed and manufactured, and where our identity is firmly grounded.

What started as a local woodworking business has grown into an international network of trusted installation partners across the UK, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and France.

A family business since 1973

The company was founded in 1973, when Ronan Cadiou took over his father’s workshop. Initially focused on agricultural fencing, the business evolved into garden gates, launching its first PVC models before moving into aluminium in the early 1990s.

In 2007, Emmanuelle Cadiou took over the leadership of the company. Since then, Maison Cadiou has continued to grow, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and efficient industrial processes. Today, we employ over 700 people and are recognised as France’s leading aluminium gate manufacturer.

Bespoke manufacturing

Every project is different. That is why we offer tailored solutions supported by our in-house design office. From sloping ground to complex layouts and architectural constraints, we provide technical guidance to help deliver a precise and reliable installation.

Calling all gates & fences installation Pros
Ready to grow your business with a premium partner? Join the KOSTUM Installer Network and gain access to exclusive products, expert support, and qualified leads.

📩 Leave us your details. Our Export Sales Manager will get in touch to kick things off.

Corentin Legault
📞 +44 74888 12868
✉️ clegault@maison-cadiou.fr

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Tuesday, 10 March 2026

DHF clarifies Fire Shutter Compliance for servery applications

For some time now, uncertainty has been building across the door and shutter sector about how fire-resisting roller shutters should be treated when they are used in specialist applications such as servery hatches. These are the shutters often seen closing down over counters or serving openings, where the curtain does not run all the way to the floor. While common in practice, they sit awkwardly within the current fire testing and certification framework.

In response, DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) has published a new guidance document, DHF Guidance on Servery Fire Shutters, to bring clarity to an issue that has become increasingly difficult for manufacturers, installers and maintenance providers to navigate.

At the heart of the problem is the way fire roller shutters are regulated. In the UK, they are covered by harmonised product standards that sit under the Construction Product Regulation. This places clear legal responsibility on manufacturers to ensure their products are correctly tested, certified and marked before being placed on the market.

Fire shutters must carry CE marking in the EU and UKCA marking in the UK, supported by a Declaration of Performance. Currently, CE marking continues to be accepted in the UK following recent Government guidance.

Since November 2019, manufacturers of fire doors, including roller shutters, have been required to obtain certification for fire resistance through an approved certification body, in line with EN 16034. For roller shutters specifically, this certification can only apply where the product is also covered by the main door standard, EN 13241. The process is detailed and ongoing, involving factory audits, fire testing, classification reports and continued surveillance of production systems.

The difficulty arises when these rules are applied to servery shutters. The main fire test standard assumes that a door closes fully to the floor. There is currently no recognised provision within the relevant extended application rules that enables certification to be issued for a shutter that stops at counter height if the fire test was carried out on a shutter that closed to the floor. As certification bodies have reviewed their schemes more closely, some have concluded that their existing certificates simply do not cover this type of installation. This has created real challenges across the supply chain. Manufacturers may find that, without additional testing and separate certification, they are unable to legally CE or UKCA mark a fire shutter intended to close onto a counter. Installers, meanwhile, are left questioning whether a product is genuinely certified for the way it is being used, and whether an alternative design, such as a shutter that closes to the floor in front of the servery, may be required.

For maintenance providers, the position is slightly different. Their role is to assess what is installed on site, checking for evidence of fire performance, reviewing the condition of the shutter and surrounding structure, and observing how the door operates. If no fire performance evidence exists, they can report on condition and operation, but they are not responsible for judging whether the product was legally placed on the market under the Construction Product Regulation.

Recognising how complex and uncomfortable this situation has become, DHF has stepped in to provide clear, plain-language guidance. The document explains what the standards currently say, why servery shutters fall into a grey area, and what each party in the supply chain should reasonably be expected to do.

“There has been a clear need to simplify and clarify this issue for the industry," explains DHF’s Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Steve Hill. “Servery fire shutters present a very specific challenge because the current standards were not written with this type of installation in mind. Our guidance sets out the facts and helps members understand their responsibilities while we await changes to the standards.”

The federation has also raised the issue with the Office for Product Safety and Standards, seeking interim clarity while the relevant European standards are reviewed and updated. Until that happens, the guidance is intended to act as a steady reference point, helping companies make informed decisions, manage risk responsibly, and have open, informed conversations with their clients.

The guidance is now available from the DHF website and forms part of the federation’s wider commitment to supporting professionalism, improving understanding and raising standards across the door and shutter industry.

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Monday, 9 March 2026

Hörmann Enhances Coastal Protection with LPU 42

With approximately 17% of the UK population living in coastal areas*, homeowners are looking for solutions to withstand the challenges posed by high salt content, moisture levels, and extreme weather conditions. In response, Hörmann UK has introduced the LPU 42 PremiumPlus sectional garage door – a high-performance upgrade engineered specifically for maritime environments.

Building on the trusted durability of the Hörmann LPU 42 range, the PremiumPlus option features enhanced corrosion protection and long-term weather resistance.

Each door leaf has a high-quality protective coating with cut edge sealing, while a premium frame includes door hardware, tracks, and connection rails finished in Grey white (RAL 9002) powder coating for increased protection.

To further improve performance, doors with S, M, and D-ribbing benefit from additional ribbed filler profiles to enhance sealing between section transitions and ribbing areas.

A recent installation in Dundonald, Kilmarnock featured two LPU 42 PremiumPlus doors, replacing the property’s previous garage doors that had suffered visible wear due to the proximity of the coast.

Hörmann replaced them with two smart matching Anthracite grey (RAL 7016) M-rib Silkgrain sectional doors, each measuring 2286 x 2125mm. One was fully automated for frequent use, while the second was manually operated, both being equipped with matching handles to maintain a consistent aesthetic.

The PremiumPlus upgrade is available for LPU 42 sectional garage doors in both Woodgrain and Silkgrain surface finishes, offering homeowners a blend of good looks combined with superior coastal durability.

www.hormann.co.uk

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Sunday, 8 March 2026

M Performance Track Kit for BMW M2 and new M Performance exhaust system for M2 CS

BMW M Performance Parts have always made a clear statement about future-forward technology, sporty, dynamic looks and uncompromising quality. The entry-level vehicle to the world of high-performance BMW M automobiles, the BMW M2, will as of 07/2026 benefit from the availability of an M Performance Track Kit that is specifically geared towards use on track days.

The BMW M2 CS (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption: 10.0 l/100 km; CO2 emissions: 226 g/km, CO2 class: G)* is the exclusive special model from BMW M in this class, marked by even sharper handling and unique design characteristics. Using the M Performance exhaust system, the looks and sound of this specific model can now be taken to a new level.

M Performance Track Kit: road-legal top performance

Track days are becoming an increasingly popular pastime for drivers with sporting ambitions. They relish the chance to enhance their performance on a closed track and to explore the dynamic capabilities of their BMW M. Track days are all about the thrill of driving, about vehicle control and the experience of performance. In addition, track days promote a sense of community by bringing like-minded people together to share their passion for motorsport and BMW M automobiles.

To push the boundaries even further towards pro racing at these sporting events, an M Performance Track Kit will become available for the BMW M2. It enables the base vehicle to deliver even sharper handling and performance on the race track. The M Performance Track Kit includes a manually adjustable front splitter that can be deployed for use on the track. It forms a single unit with the front diffuser. This feature is complemented by wheel arch diffusers, which are not adjustable, and a scoop under the upstream engine oil cooler.

The front splitter/diffuser significantly increases downforce, with aero flicks adding even more grip. Added to this is a manually adjustable swan neck rear wing, as used on the BMW M4 GT4 and BMW M4 GT3 customer sport models. It features a unique “Race Mode” in which the rear wing is moved by 50 millimetres toward the rear, significantly increasing the wing’s aerodynamic effectiveness.

When retracted in “Street Mode”, its position complies with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulation (StVZO), as the vehicle limits are not exceeded. The rear wing’s angle of attack can also be varied, with two settings available to maximise downforce on the rear axle depending on the characteristics of the track. Another eye-catching, unique feature is the brake light integrated into the rear wing.

Other elements include a threaded chassis with 4-way adjustable rebound and compression damping, adjustable support bearings and the first special motorsport damper system to also be road-legal. In addition, the chassis can be lowered by up to 20 millimetres at the front and rear.

The height adjustment is infinitely variable. The Track Kit’s components were developed in collaboration with BMW M specialists, who can draw on expertise built up in the course of countless races and victories. All components were aerodynamically optimised in the BMW wind tunnel. Jörg Weidinger – who is both a record driver and BMW M test engineer responsible for chassis development – was in charge of overall fine-tuning. The components all interact in a unique way, especially when combined with the optional ultra-track tyres. It’s a truly special achievement that requires the exceptional know-how of a carmaker like BMW.

The M Performance Track Kit will be available from July 2026 and cost 23,500 euros plus tax (in Germany). All prices exclude installation.

Acoustics and visuals: from the race track to the road

The M Performance exhaust system for the new BMW M2 CS is now available as an additional, particularly appealing customisation option. Its optimised exhaust gas routing enhances the distinctive sound of the 390 kW/530 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology. Setup provides access to several modes that fine-tune the exhaust system’s performance.

All of them generate an exhilarating, exceptionally sporty engine sound. Visually, too, the new exhaust system reflects the expertise BMW M has gathered over five decades of motorsport involvement. The optional M Performance tailpipe trims are made of carbon and titanium, two materials that have proven themselves in motor racing.

They lend the rear of the BMW M2 CS a distinctive, unmistakeable look. Motorsport affinity is also demonstrated by the consistent application of lightweight construction principles. The M Performance exhaust system is around 8 kilograms lighter than the standard component and is priced from 8,343.50 euros (in Germany), excluding installation.

* Consumption and emissions data: The figures for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, energy consumption and range are for vehicles as offered on the German market. All data are based on the new WLTP test cycle. Energy consumption and emissions data refer to the German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation (EnVKV)

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Saturday, 7 March 2026

Doors close on Adlor – or do they?

After 44 years of trading, the doors finally closed on our family business at the end of February…

In 1981, the year left school, my father, John McConnel started the business with two partners, one of which was bought out for £100 with a year. My father and his other partner (Keith Adams) continued the business for several years until Keith decided to leave. My Mum, Brother and I then became partners, with dad still holding 51% of the company. (shrewd) and has continued as such.

Over the years we have seen manufacturers come and go, including Westland Engineers, Catnic Garador, management buyouts and finally the Germans arrived and took over, but we survived it all and carried on regardless with a typical stiff upper lip.

There have been some funny moments along the way, particularly with customers, one example was, when we asked a homeowner how old the operator was? The lady was then heard saying to her husband. How old are you Bill?

There is so much more I could write but hopefully this gives you a small insight into an old fashioned, successful family run business in the true sense of the word and not a computer in sight.

Dad is not nearly 89, he would like to carry on with his hobby and was working up ‘til eight weeks ago, but I'm afraid age has finally caught up with him. Although he is still giving out instructions from his bedside.

We would like to thank our wonderful and not so wonderful staff over the years for helping us along the way. In particular a special mention to Lee Shepherd who has been our right-hand man for more than 20 years, Lee is staying in the garage door industry. and l am sure will be very successful in his own right. Also, a special mention to all of our customers, past and present, who without none of this could of happened.

Moving forward the business has been sold to another local garage door company; whose hands we feel confident in leaving it to. We wish Jon May of 1* Choice Garage Doors continued success for the future, that I know we have enjoyed for so long.

www.adloruk.com

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Friday, 6 March 2026

Can I rely on risk assessments for doors, gates, and barriers?

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) technical team are often asked whether carrying out a risk assessment is enough to demonstrate compliance for powered doors, gates, and barrier systems. With several sets of UK regulations referencing risk assessment, it can be unclear where legal responsibilities begin and end. In this article, DHF’s technical experts explain how the regulations apply and why recognised safety standards remain central to ensuring compliance and protecting users.

When looking at the safety of doors, gates, and barrier systems, three sets of UK regulations are often referred to, The Supply of Machinery Safety Regulations 2008, The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, and The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998.

All three place importance on risk assessment as a method of identifying hazards and protecting people. Because of this, it is sometimes assumed that completing a general risk assessment is enough to demonstrate legal compliance for entrance systems.

In practice however, the position is more specific and depends on which regulations apply and how they interact with recognised safety standards. This article explains how each set of regulations applies to doors, gates, and barriers, and whether risk assessment alone can be relied upon.

Supply of Machinery Safety Regulations 2008

The Supply of Machinery Safety Regulations applies to powered doors, gates, and barriers that are placed on the market or put into service. These regulations implement the requirements of the Machinery Directive into UK law and require manufacturers and installers to ensure that machinery is safe. Risk assessment forms part of these regulations. Manufacturers are required to identify hazards and reduce risks so far as possible.

However, powered entrance systems are also covered by harmonised European standards and UK designated standards, which describe specific safety measures and performance requirements. These standards represent what is commonly referred to as the ‘state-of-the-art’, and define the minimum level of safety expected for compliance. Where a harmonised standard exists, any risk assessment used as an alternative approach must achieve a level of safety that is equal to or better than that provided by the standard.

In theory, this allows for alternative solutions. In practice, the standards already provide detailed, well-established methods for addressing known risks such as crushing, impact, and trapping. Because of this, it is difficult to see how a different risk assessment approach could realistically offer the same level of protection without following the standards themselves. For this reason, compliance with the appropriate standard remains the normal and most reliable route to meeting the requirements of these regulations.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) apply to a wide range of equipment used at work. This often leads to the assumption that they apply to all powered doors, gates, and barriers in workplaces. However, for entrance doors, gates, and barriers that are part of the building structure, the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations take precedence.

PUWER specifically address the safety of workplace doors and traffic routes. As a result, normal entrance systems in and around workplaces do not fall under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations. Their safety is instead assessed by reference to relevant standards, which define what is reasonably practicable. Enforcement authorities and courts have previously accepted that where a recognised standard exists, it is reasonable to expect it to be followed. This means that risk assessments under PUWER are not required for entrance systems.

There is an important exception, however. Where a door, gate, or barrier forms part of a machine, production line, or industrial process, and not a building entrance, it may fall within the scope of these regulations. In such cases, risk assessment would be required.

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) apply to equipment used for lifting or lowering loads. Doors, gates, and barriers do not lift loads but simply move their own structure between open and closed positions. Because of this, these regulations do not apply to entrance systems.

This position is supported by HSE guidance, which explains that equipment which only moves itself is outside the scope of LOLER. As with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, entrance systems in workplaces are instead covered by the Workplace Regulations and the relevant safety standards. Risk assessments under these regulations are therefore not required for doors, gates, and barriers.

The role of standards and risk assessment

Recognised standards for powered doors, gates, and barriers describe known hazards and the measures needed to control them. They are based on many years of technical development, accident data, and industry experience. Risk assessment can play a supporting role, particularly where site conditions are unusual or where additional control measures are needed.

However, a risk assessment cannot be used to justify safety measures that fall below the level set out in the standards. In simple terms, risk assessment does not replace the standards. It must work alongside them and cannot reduce the level of protection they require.

Summary

In summary, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations do not apply to entrance doors, gates, and barrier systems used as part of buildings. The Supply of Machinery Safety Regulations do apply to powered entrance systems, but any risk assessment carried out under these regulations must deliver a level of safety that is at least equal to that set out in the recognised standards. Because the standards already define current good practice and minimum safety levels, they remain the primary reference for legal compliance and for protecting people using doors, gates, and barriers.

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Thursday, 5 March 2026

Fire Stopping Ventilation: The Role of Fire Block Louvre Systems

Allegion UK, a leading name in fire safety hardware with a trusted reputation for keeping people safe where they live, learn, work, and connect, discusses the importance of adequate ventilation and combining air movement with fire protection when both are needed.

Supplier of the Zero FBLS Fire Block Louvre System, Allegion UK offers an extensive range of innovative fire door hardware designed to improve the effectiveness of fire doors in containing the spread of fire, smoke and heat.

Why Ventilation Matters

Buildings that don’t breathe properly can become health hazards. Poor indoor air quality, from elevated CO2 to VOCs emitted by everyday materials, contributes to headaches, respiratory irritation and dips in concentration and productivity. Inadequate ventilation is a particular concern in offices, classrooms, plant rooms and other enclosed spaces where people spend long periods of time.

Door louvres are a straightforward, effective way to improve air circulation, helping to reduce moisture, dispersing pollutants and supporting temperature control. But where air can pass, so can smoke and flame. That’s why a conventional louvre is not suitable for fire-rated doors.

Iain Banks, Product Marketing Manager at Allegion UK, commented: “When you need airflow and fire protection in the same opening, a fire block louvre is the sensible and compliant option for your steel fire doors. Metal louvres will provide the ventilation you need in offices, classrooms, plant rooms, stores and other areas, but the Zero FBLS Fire Block Louvre System assures that ventilation doesn’t become a route for smoke or fire.”

Balancing Air Movement & Fire Safety

The ideal solution for both factory-fitting and retrofit applications, the FBLS Fire Block Louvre System accommodates door thicknesses from 29 mm upwards and provides a 40% free area for effective airflow. At the centre of the FBLS is an intumescent fire block, which, under high temperatures, expands to seal the opening, choking off the passage of fire and cold smoke, while the louvre remains unobtrusive in everyday use. The result is a practical, compliant solution for fire-rated doors that also require ventilation.

Iain continues: “Our fire block louvre systems are expertly manufactured in our workshop and are suitable for steel fire doors, providing up to 240 minutes of fire integrity. We have over 20 standard sizes available from stock and any size available to order from a minimum cut-out of 152 x 152mm.”

To learn more about the Zero FBLS Fire Block Louvre System, visit zeroplus.co.uk or call 01785 282 910.

www.allegion.com

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Wednesday, 4 March 2026

Hörmann SPU F42 Door Delivers Reliability and Performance for RNLI Lifeboat Station

Hörmann UK industrial trade partner, Norwich-based Cooks Doors, has successfully completed the installation of a Hörmann SPU F42 sectional door at the RNLI Lifeboat Station in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire. Designed to perform in some of the UK’s most demanding environments, the new door provides the RNLI with a robust, reliable, and highly efficient solution to support its vital operations.

Measuring an impressive 7500 x 3650mm, the SPU F42 sectional door was specified for its strength, durability, and consistent performance in what is a challenging coastal setting. Manufactured from galvanised steel with a solid, double-skinned construction and a high-grade polyurethane foam core, the door offers excellent thermal efficiency, helping to maintain a stable internal environment within the lifeboat station. With a thermal insulation value of 1.2 W/m²K, the door helps reduce heat loss, supporting energy efficiency and creating a more comfortable working space for the RNLI crew.

Given the exposed coastal location, resistance to the elements was a key consideration. The SPU F42 achieves Class 3 performance for both wind load and water tightness, helping to protect the station interior, equipment, and lifeboats from harsh weather conditions. Additional corrosion protection has been applied to the door fittings to further enhance longevity, ensuring reliable operation despite constant exposure to salty sea air.

The door is finished externally in Gentian blue (RAL 5010), complementing the lifeboat station’s appearance, while the off-white interior finish (RAL 9002) helps to brighten the internal space. Two rows of vision panels were incorporated into the design, allowing increased natural light into the building and improving visibility without compromising strength or security.

Operational reliability is critical for the RNLI, where rapid response times are essential. The SPU F42 is powered by a 400v three-phase operator, providing smooth, dependable day-to-day operation. In the event of a power failure, a manual hand chain ensures the door can be operated, maintaining access at all times. Safety has also been prioritised, with an integrated safety edge that automatically stops the door if an obstruction is detected, helping to protect personnel, vehicles, and equipment.

The installation of the Hörmann SPU F42 sectional door will help ensure that RNLI Mablethorpe are able to launch quickly and effectively in all conditions, ultimately helping them continue their lifesaving work along the Lincolnshire coast.

www.hormann.co.uk

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