The Door Industry Journal: September 2019

Monday, 30 September 2019

Jewers Doors Open Sydney Light Rail Depot

Jewers’ Australian reseller, Max Door Solutions (MDS) have recently completed the installation of six sets of Swift-SEW bi-folding doors, for the new Lilyfield maintenance depot for Sydney Light Rail. The doors were manufactured at Jewers’ factory in Biggleswade before being shipped into Sydney.

The CBD and South East Light Rail is a new light rail network for Sydney which will significantly improve public transport access to major sporting and entertainment facilities, as well as the University of NSW, TAFE College and several hospitals.

The 12km route is expected to transport more than 9.7 million customers each year. The Lilyfield Light Rail maintenance depot building, along with a 2nd depot at Randwick will house the facilities needed to service and maintain the light rail vehicles (LRVs) and Lilyfield can accommodate up to six LRVs for servicing at any one time.

MDS were commissioned by the principal project team of Coleman Rail and Architectus to supply and install automatic bi-folding doors which are fitted to the six LRV entrance roads into the Lilyfield depot.

All six sets of doors are 3.74m wide and 6.1m high, configured in four leaves with two leaves folding to each side clear of the opening on the inside of the building. Each door set incorporates a high level 600mm x 630mm cut-out, which enables to the door to safely close around the overhead line equipment (OLE).

The cut-out is lined with a dielectrically rated rubber sheet to prevent bird entry and reduce dust ingress, and the door is earthed back to the structure. Each door leaf is fitted with a double glazed toughened glass vision panel set in a thermally broken aluminium frame to provide light ingress and allow the tram driver visibility during operation.

Doors are operated by a powerful, centrally mounted SEW drive unit which opens and closes the door in 7 seconds. Control is via a purpose-built PLC control panel incorporating inverter control for ultra-smooth operation and integration with the building management system. In the event of power failure, a low-level disengage handle enables the doors to be opened easily by hand.

The leading edge of each door incorporates full height pressure sensitive safety edges to ensure user safety. Additional send/receive photocells prevent the door closing on an LRV and create a safe zone around the door. Each door leaf is fitted with full perimeter, seamless, multi-wall EPDM rubber seals to prevent dust and water ingress.

Jewers Doors’ director, Mark Jewers commented:

“Despite being on the other side of the world, major construction authorities in Australia now recognise the quality and value of UK engineered doors for major projects such as this.

“We are therefore delighted to be invited to utilise our experience and expertise to supply specialist doors for another prestigious project in the booming Australian rail industry.

“MDS are a well-respected supplier of high-quality industrial doors in Australia, and we are currently worked closely with them on several other rail projects and look forward to exhibiting with them at AusRail in Sydney later this year.”

For more information visit www.jewersdoors.co.uk

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Sunday, 29 September 2019

Celebrate 75 years of an Icon with the Sahara Bug Rally 2020

Marking the anniversary year of the return of the legendary VW Beetle to production by the British Army, Driven to Extremes is offering the drive of a lifetime in the Sahara Bug Rally 2020.

The 17-day driving adventure next March will see teams tackle the original Dakar Rally route across the Sahara Desert in special Volkswagen Beetles.

With all terrain tyres, lifted suspension and underbody protection, the modified vehicles will be equipped for the challenging terrain, including breath-taking mountain passes, soft sand dunes, rocky desert tracks and treacherous dry riverbeds.

With teams sourcing and preparing their own vehicles, with the support of Driven to Extremes, before heading to North Africa, the Sahara Bug Rally is a stern test of teamwork. From the Algerian border to the Atlantic Ocean, the entrants will head for the finish line as they traverse 1,000 miles of sand, rock and gravel through Morocco.

With the cost of entry just £745pp* for a team of up to four, it’s the ultimate celebration of one of most important cars - find out more here.

Driving an icon

In 1945, following World War 2, Major Ivan Hirst of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) famously saved Volkswagen by restarting Beetle production.

In 2020, to mark the 75th anniversary of this event, VW Beetles will return the favour. Organised and run by a team of ex-service personnel, the event supports military veterans suffering from PTSD, helping them get back on their feet.**

With the first generation of modern VW Beetle now available from just £300 as a used car, the Sahara Bug Rally gives motoring and adventure enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to modify their own vehicles and drive one of the most exciting routes in the world.

Fitting raised suspension, a tough engine sump guard and strong recovery points, the Sahara Bug Rally is open to any VW Beetles, old shape or new. Guidance and support on sourcing and preparing the vehicles is available from Driven to Extremes, with a turn-key service available on request.***

Delivered by expedition specialists Max Adventure, the expert team has planned and led expeditions for the likes of explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Hollywood actor Tom Hardy and ex F1 Ferrari racer Mike Salo, in as far-flung places as Siberia, the North Pole and Mt Everest.

Operating in the most extreme environments on earth, from -60°C Siberia to +50°C of the Sahara and extreme altitudes of the Himalayas, the team has over 25 years’ experience.

The cost for this incredible adventure is just £745.00* per person and £495.00 per car, with discounted rates for serving & ex-military teams. Entry fee includes full expedition support (leader, guide, medic & mechanic) in 4x4’s, return ferry from Spain to Morocco, all accommodation in Africa (hotel & camping), branded clothing and vehicle graphics.

To test your mettle in the Sahara Bug Rally, between March 13 – 29, 2020, contact info@driventoextremes.org for further information, or visit the 'Driven to Extremes’ website and Facebook page.

www.driventoextremes.org

* Based on a minimum of two crew per car
** Each team must raise a minimum of £500 in support of veterans
*** Vehicle purchase & preparation service available. Contact for details

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Saturday, 28 September 2019

Poll reveals alarming lack of fire door knowledge across trades

A poll by IronmongeryDirect raises concerns over fire door knowledge

Despite reporting a growth in demand for fire safety products and devices in the last year, a new poll by online ironmongery supplier IronmongeryDirect has revealed that over half (54%) of tradespeople do not know how to check that a fire door is operating correctly and complies with regulations.

The poll also found that 84% of respondents don’t believe there is enough fire door safety information readily available to tradespeople, despite extensive media coverage about the dangers of inadequate fire protection following the Grenfell disaster in 2017.

The results are published in support of the seventh annual Fire Door Safety Week (23 September – 29 September), which aims to highlight the importance of fire doors and increase good fire safety practice across the trade industries.

The online poll follows a national survey of 2,000 adults which was carried out by IronmongeryDirect. The results show a disturbing lack of general awareness on the life-saving role that fire doors play, with almost six in ten (59%) of the general public admitting they do not know how to identify a fire door.

Ian Moore, CEO at the Fire Industry Association, said:

“Fire door-sets are a critical fire safety measure, designed, tested, manufactured and third party certified to exacting standards. For that reason, they need to be maintained in line with the door-set manufacturer’s instructions with the correct replacement parts.“

The research emphasises the need for tradespeople and the wider public to be more aware of the essential role that fire doors play in keeping them safe. Fire doors are designed to withstand fire for between 30 and 240 minutes and, when maintained correctly, they can make a remarkable difference in saving lives and reducing spread during a fire.

Managing Director of IronmongeryDirect, Wayne Lysaght-Mason, commented:

“We are pleased to see an increase in the sale of fire safety products across the industry. However, it is worrying that a large proportion of tradespeople still seem to lack basic fire door safety knowledge.

“A well installed and maintained fire door can really be the difference between life and death for building occupants. We urge all tradespeople to use our new online fire door checklist to help assess whether fire doors they are responsible for are safe and legally compliant.”

For more guidance, view IronmongeryDirect’s Fire Door Checklist at: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk

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Friday, 27 September 2019

New Video Series Covers all the Fire Door Safety Basics

A series of short video interviews with fire door safety expert Hannah Mansell have been launched to mark Fire Door Safety Week which runs this week (23-29 September 2019).

The videos give advice on each stage of the process to anyone buying or specifying fire doors, including architects, contractors and clients.

Brief interviews cover topics such as the role of fire doors in building and life safety, the crucial difference between ‘doors’ and ‘doorsets’, the manufacturing standards that customers should expect and the importance of the fire door testing and certification regime. Hannah also gives tips on installation and maintenance of fire doors, as well as her personal views on innovation, the residents’ voice and the future of fire safety in the UK.

Hannah is Group Technical Director at Masonite UK, one of the world’s leading door manufacturers serving both the residential and architectural markets. She is also chair of the Passive Fire Protection Forum and a trustee of the Children’s Burns Trust.

Hannah Mansell says:

“Fire safety is never far from the headlines at the moment, and the role of fire doors in protecting life and property keeps coming up as a major issue. Fire doors are a critical safety device, engineered as a system to protect building users and the emergency services too.

“However, the current official guidance on fire doors is still not as clear as it could be. So I think it is incredibly important for specifiers, contractors and everyone involved in building safety to build a close working relationship with their fire door manufacturer, and to make the most of the technical expertise we can offer.”

A new fire door safety video will be published on Premdor’s YouTube channel and other social media accounts on each day of Fire Door Safety Week.

Hannah joined Masonite earlier this year after five years as technical manager at the British Woodworking Federation. She has had a major influence on technical and safety policy throughout her 20-year career in the doors and joinery industry.

Masonite currently serves approximately 9,000 customers in 64 countries, and is represented in the UK through the Premdor Crosby, Solidor, Door Stop International and National Hickman brands.

Premdor offers an array of moulded, veneered and laminated fire doors in a variety of styles, colours and wood grain finishes. Fire doors are available in 30-minute (Fireshield FD30) and 60-minute (Firemaster FD60) options. Premdor’s fire rated doors and doorsets are compliant with all relevant British Standards and have been tested in accordance with BS 476: Part 22.

www.premdor.co.uk/fire-doors

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Thursday, 26 September 2019

Three in Five Care Home Workers Concerned About Serious Risk of Fire

Fire Door Safety Week research reveals that three in five care home workers believe their workplace is at serious risk of a fire

Study also reveals alarming misconceptions over fire door safety, and high prevalence of unsafe practice

Awareness week raises the vital role of fire doors in protecting people when asleep in all types of multi-occupancy accommodation

Campaign is supported by London Fire Brigade which earlier this year announced it is stepping up its care home inspection regime

Care homes, where some of the most vulnerable people in society live, are believed to be at alarming risk of a fire, with three in five care home workers admitting to serious concerns according to new research released today to launch Fire Door Safety Week (23-29 September).

The study, which was conducted among 1,000 current and former care home employees, found that three quarters believe that more could be done to prevent or manage a fire, with three in five workers having reported fire safety concerns – but half (51%) say that unsatisfactory action was taken as a result.

There is also a worrying lack of clarity among care home workers around one of the key lines of defence in the event of a fire: fire doors. Nearly half (47%) said they did not understand the role a fire door plays in keeping a fire contained for a specified time, while over eight in ten (82%) admitted to deliberately keeping a fire door open – defeating its purpose.

Revealing worrying misconceptions over fire door safety, one in five care workers incorrectly believed that painting a regular door with flame proof paint made it a legitimate fire door, and the same proportion stating that the gap between the fire door and door frame doesn’t matter.

Alarmingly, almost three quarters (72%) said they had witnessed or were aware of fire doors being tampered with, including removing the door closer to make doors easier to open. Not only does this make the door closer redundant, when combined with other adjustments it could leave the fire door not fit for purpose in the event of a fire.

Fire doors placed on the market should withstand fire for 30 minutes and have test evidence to validate this. Respondents said that on average that it would take 25 minutes to evacuate the care home where they worked, with a quarter saying that it would take longer than 30 minutes – highlighting the vital importance of fire doors in holding back fire and smoke for this time

The research marks the start of Fire Door Safety Week, which this year focuses on the role that fire doors play in protecting people while asleep and at their most vulnerable – principally in specialised housing such as care homes, children’s homes and sheltered housing as well as houses in multiple occupation and communal properties.

Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation, which organises Fire Door Safety Week, said:

“These highly concerning findings underline how crucial fire safety is, and the fundamental role that fire doors play – especially so in light of recent instances of damaging care home fires which have threatened the lives of residents.

“Evacuation strategies in care homes are very specialised, accounting for the fact that many residents will need assistance. These strategies rely on the ability of fire doors to perform their function in holding back fire and smoke to allow adequate time for rescue.

“We all need to feel protected inside buildings, and especially so when we are asleep. Care homes and other specialised housing provide a living place for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“The companies and other operators that run and maintain them have a responsibility to ensure their residents’ safety – and as an industry we need to continue to provide our expert support to ensure the correct specification, installation and ongoing maintenance of fire doors.

“We hope that through raising awareness during Fire Door Safety Week, lives will be saved through a reappraisal of fire doors and safety arrangements in multiple occupancy buildings.”

Care home fire concerns

There is heightened concern over care homes due to the extremely vulnerable nature of the residents, most of whom are elderly and have poor mobility or eyesight or may be drowsy because of medication.

London Fire Brigade significantly increased its inspection schedule in care homes in London this year following fire safety concerns.

London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Dan Daly said:

“Earlier this year we found that of 177 care homes inspected in London, a third had inadequate or poorly maintained fire doors. These are one of a number of measures that need to be in place to help keep people safe from fire.

“We would urge all care home providers to ensure that they have a proper and up to date fire risk assessment and ensure they know what to do in the event of a fire to help protect some of London’s most vulnerable residents.”

Fire Door Safety Week Activities

Numerous events and campaign activities are being held throughout this year’s Fire Door Safety Week, which is run by the British Woodworking Federation and supported by a number of agencies, including the Home Office’s National Fire Safety campaign and the National Fire Chief’s Council.

A free toolkit of resources is available to help landlords, tenants and anyone with an interest in or responsibility for fire safety at a property. The week also sees the launch of a hard-hitting video [insert link] underlining the powerlessness of tenants and residents to protect themselves from fire if those responsible fail to take action over fire safety.

Brand new for this year’s campaign is an interactive mock criminal trial, aimed at providing manufacturers of fire safety products, consultants, contractors, designers, installers and other potential duty holders an insight into where they may be liable in the event of a fire incident.

Helen Hewitt said:

“Every year, Fire Door Safety Week raises awareness and helps save lives. We need to root out fire doors that are ill-fitted, damaged or poorly maintained and ensure that all buildings are equipped with fire doors that are fit for purpose.

“Tenants and residents need to have confidence in them and have clear guidance about fire safety plans and measures, and be able to report concerns that are then actioned. The time has come for all parties to fully play their role in the critical matter of fire safety.”

Visit www.firedoorsafetyweek.co.uk to find out more.

* Video copyright British Woodworking Federation

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Wednesday, 25 September 2019

Abloy’s Infographic Reveals Magnitude of Fire Door Safety

To mark the start of Fire Door Safety Week 2019, Abloy UK has launched an infographic that uncovers recent statistics around fire door safety and highlights the risks around non-compliance.

As well as explaining how fire can spread fast, Abloy also makes recommendations on how to make premises safe from fire, and discusses fire door regulations and responsibility – as well as the penalties for non-compliance.

Pat Jefferies, Commercial Director of Abloy UK, comments:

“Fire Door Safety Week is an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the issues around the risks of unregulated fire doors, and educate those responsible for ensuring safety in buildings.

“Although the initiative gives us a relevant platform to highlight these issues, fire door safety should be front of mind all year round – especially when the ultimate cost from non-compliance can be the loss of life.

“That’s why Abloy is committed to educating anyone responsible for the specification and installation of fire doors through our Academy – whether that’s an architect, specifier, systems integrator, landlord or facilities manager.

“We’ve been training delegates at the Abloy Academy on the points raised in this infographic and so much more for over a decade, and are proud to help ensure public safety through fire door safety education for many more decades to come.”

For further information on products and services available from Abloy UK or to book a place on one of the courses, call 01902 364 500, or email academy@abloy.co.uk .

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Tuesday, 24 September 2019

Allegion UK Steps up to The Challenge, Raising Awareness for Fire Safety

Allegion UK, a leading specialist in fire safety and security products and solutions, last week took an impressive 533,321 steps towards raising £500 in aid of Fire Door Safety Week (FDSW) and The Fire Fighters Charity.

Using two treadmills, 35 employees from the Allegion UK team worked as one to take part in their corporate challenge to walk, run, jog or dance 500,000 steps in four days.

During the challenge, the team joined forces with the West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), who visited the Allegion offices in Aston, Birmingham, to help them achieve their ambitious goal.

James Marriott, station commander from WMFS, said:

“We had a fantastic time supporting Allegion UK and thank the staff who took part in this challenge. I’m certain that the funds raised for the charity will make a significant difference to fire fighters and their families who are going through difficult times.

“With our mission being to ‘make the West Midlands safer, stronger and healthier’ and Allegion’s purpose of ‘create peace of mind by pioneering safety and security,’ I am in no doubt that we will continue to work together to promote fire safety.’’

Pete Hancox, commercial leader UK & Ireland, celebrated the combined efforts:

“In current circumstances, it is more important than ever to make people aware of fire safety. Each year our team makes a huge effort in raising awareness – this year was no different.

“It was also brilliant to welcome the fire service to help us reach our target. Each step taken truly did count towards us raising money for such a worthy cause.’’

FDSW (23-29 September 2019), run by British Woodworking Federation (BWF) and the BWF Fire Door Alliance, aims to increase public understanding of the fundamental role fire doors play in protecting life and property.

This year’s campaign explores the crucial role fire doors have in protecting us when we are asleep, with a particular focus on specialised housing and HMOs (House in Multiple Occupation).

Last year, the campaign reached a new high, gaining support from more than 350 individuals, organisations and businesses.

For more information on events taking place this week visit the FDSW website or follow @FDSafetyWeek on Twitter.

To read more about what Allegion UK does for fire safety, visit: www.allegion.co.uk

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Monday, 23 September 2019

Specifying Door Closers for Fire Doors

Fire doors are the first line of defence in protecting building occupants in the event a fire breaks out. As such, it is crucial to make a robust specification that includes the door closers.

Here, Graham Hulland, Product Marketing Manager at dormakaba will explain what to consider.

There are two key factors that must be considered when specifying closers for fire doors: does it satisfy Approved Document B, and does it meet the requirements of the 2010 equality act? To ensure these are met, there are other considerations that must be adhered to when specifying to ensure legislative compliance.

Look for the CE-mark

Any door closer being specified for use on a self-closing fire door in the UK must be CE-marked to BS EN1154, under the EU’s Construction Products Regulations.

Once the closer has been successfully tested and CE-marked, a Declaration of Performance should be issued by the manufacturer. This will detail the in-situ performance of the product, and ensures the sustainability of the door closer for its intended application.

Third party certification

To ensure compliance, the door closer must also be fire tested to demonstrate that it is suitable for its intended purpose. The CE-mark does not detail a specific application, so therefore, this classification cannot be applied to any fire door type.

A scheme that will detail all applications for which the closer is suitable is Certifire. This third-party certification not only certifies that the product will meet intended fire performance, but also meets mechanical performance, and requires audit testing of product and factory production control to ensure what is currently supplied is as originally tested.

Accessibility

It is imperative that fire doors are easy to use and do not negatively impact access requirements of building occupants, or there is a risk they will be removed or disengaged.

By specifying an adjustable powered closer, the device can have the closing force adjusted to the exact requirements and keep opening force required to a minimum. The maximum opening forces allowed for door sets are stated in BS 8300 and Approved Document M of the Building Regulations. To help ensure compliance, door closer torque curves are available from manufacturers that detail the opening force throughout the opening cycle.

Prevent tampering

Tampering can unfortunately occur on any element of a building, whether it is accidental or intentional – the end result, however, can result in fire doors no longer being able to work properly, which can prove fatal in the event of a fire.

Due to projecting arms, it is more likely they can be the subject of tampering and vandalism. Side arm cam action door closers are a much less intrusive solution that are highly efficient and can assure opening forces are kept to a minimum. In addition, specifying units with concealed fixings also eliminates the risk of tampering.

It is essential that fire doors comply with all relevant fire and access legislation to ensure the safety of all building’s occupants. By ensuring all door hardware, particularly door closers, are correctly specified and sourced from reputable suppliers, appliance can be achieved.

To find out more about achieving fire and access compliance, please visit: www.dormakaba.co.uk

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Sunday, 22 September 2019

British Motor Heritage to Aid the Rebirth Of ‘Frankie’, TV Wheeler Dealer Mike Brewer’s Beloved Mini-Cooper S

The classic Mini-Cooper S is the all-time favourite car of Britain’s treasured Wheeler Dealer, Mike Brewer. Having let one slip through his fingers many years ago, he now has another, but it’s in urgent need of restoration, which is where British Motor Heritage (BMH) comes in.

As the owners of the original BMC tooling, BMH is uniquely placed to supply the original specification replacement bodyshells and panels that have already helped save thousands of classic Minis from that automotive scrapyard in the sky.

Mike’s Cooper S is a 1964 example (just like the man himself) that he acquired by chance at auction, and is in need of a complete new shell to make it pristine once more. To kick the project off, both the mighty Mini and its replacement body will be presented live on the stage of The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show (November 8-10, 2019).

The restoration will then take place over the ensuing 12 months and in time for the finished article to be revealed at 2020 show, following which ‘300 NOH’ will become the star of Mr Brewer’s eclectic car collection.

The car’s resurrection will be supported by Andy Harrison of Acespeed, the West Yorkshire-based restorer renowned for the quality of his classic car rebuilds.

The full story of Frankie’s rebirth is being chronicled in Mini Magazine, and both car and owner star on the front cover of the latest issue. Fans will also be able to monitor the Mini’s progress via the social media channels of all the participants.

Why Frankie? Explained Mike Brewer:

“Frank was the name of the lovely man that initially recommissioned ‘300 NOH’ for me, yet refused any payment, saying ‘the smile on my face was reward enough’, so I named the car after him. In my experience, genuine car people are all nice guys, as British Motor Heritage have further confirmed by generously contributing a new shell to the cause and helping me to achieve my dream machine, for which I’m more than grateful.”

Added BMH’s Managing Director John Yea:

“Mike’s enthusiasm for Project Frankie is truly infectious, and we are delighted to be playing a key part in the rebuild and saviour of another Mini for posterity that, courtesy of Mike’s fame, will doubtless bring much pleasure to a great number of people.”

Further information on British Motor Heritage and its products can be found at www.bmh-ltd.com.

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Saturday, 21 September 2019

DHF publishes new document on changes to CE marking of fire & smoke resisting industrial doors

Tamworth-based trade association, DHF (Door & Hardware Federation), has published a new downloadable document for the industrial door sector, named Changes to CE marking of Fire and Smoke Resisting Industrial Doors.

The long-awaited publication reveals what is required, and is to be used, in conjunction with DHF TS012:2019 and is now accessible from the federation’s website.

CE marking of powered doors, whether fire/smoke resisting or not, has been mandatory under the Machinery Directive since 1995; this remains a constant and will not change.

As of November 2019, there will be significant additional requirements for CE marking of both powered and manual fire and smoke resisting doors covered by EN 13241:2003+A2:2016. This is because compliance with the Construction Products Regulation (EU) 305/2011 (CPR) becomes mandatory for both manual and powered fire resisting industrial doors on this date.

Whilst many manufacturers have been CE marking their products under the new rules on a voluntary basis during the co-existence period, the new rule will become compulsory from November 2019.

DHF’s General Manager and Secretary, Michael Skelding explains:

“DHF’s new publication is supplementary to, and should be used in conjunction with, DHF TS 012, and covers industrial doors and shop front shutters covering doorways that have fire/smoke resisting properties.

“It is important to note that it does not cover pedestrian doors, except for retail shutters (which clearly resemble a shutter in a warehouse more than they do a hinged or sliding pedestrian fire door). For CE marking purposes, only fire test evidence to EN 1634-1 can be used,”

“Existing fire shutters tested to BS 476-22 remain acceptable, but fire shutters placed on the market after 1 November this year will need the CE mark. As well as fire test evidence, the CE mark must be supported by evidence of the shutter’s ability to self-close and its safety in everyday use.

“We hope that our new guide will help to make this clear. It is worth noting that fire shutters, new or old, are not exempt from normal health and safety rules for doors in a workplace.”

DHF’s new publication can be downloaded here: www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Friday, 20 September 2019

DIN Rail Single and Dual Loop Detector provides Reliable and Safe Vehicle Detection

Carlo Gavazzi’s latest compact DIN rail mounting LDD loop detector provides reliable and accurate vehicle detection in a compact housing just 22mm wide and is designed to ensure ease of installation.

The LDD has a loop input inductance of 20 μH to 1000 μH and an adjustable sensitivity in 10 steps - 0.01% to 1.00% via potentiometer. The multicolour power/fault LED feature ensures simple diagnostics and ensures rapid troubleshooting; providing an effective method for monitoring the loop status, cross talk, short circuit, open circuit and inductance out of range.

The new slimline LD series comes with two SPDT relay outputs that can be independently configured to operate in pulse or presence mode, with adjustable pulse and presence detection. The dual loop version can also determine vehicle direction.

The automatic frequency tuning ensures that each time it is powered up or reset it will automatically detect disturbances present on any of the four channels and in turn will choose the channel with the best signal condition whilst the selectable sensitivity allows adjustments in 10 steps from 1 to 10. 1 being the least sensitive and 10 the most sensitive.

The Automatic Sensitivity Boost (ASB) ensures accurate detection of high-base vehicles such as trucks and buses whilst the automatic loop frequency tuning avoids cross talk between loops when installed in close proximity to each other.

Crucially, the built-in fail safe / fail secure function; on detection of an error such as power loss or loop fault allows the loop detector to operate either to open or close the barriers safely.

It comes with a wide power supply range from 24 to 240 VAC/VDC, together with many other features, contributes to make the new loop detector the state-of-the-art solution for reliable universal vehicle detection.

The LDD loop detector is the perfect solution for applications such as car parks, drive through and car access control applications to control barriers, gates, bollards and car access equipment and is designed in accordance with the latest standards and European and North American regulations and is CE, UL508 and CSA certified.

For more information regarding Carlo Gavazzi and its range of products, please visit the website: www.carlogavazzi.co.uk or call the sale team on 01276 854110.

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Thursday, 19 September 2019

Losing Sleep Over Fire Safety Compliance

As the UK strives to improve fire safety and building standards, Karen Trigg of Allegion UK discusses the pressure on specialised housing landlords and how to keep residents safe.

For landlords, providing residents with a safe environment is key. For residents living in specialised settings, such as sheltered housing, extra care and supported living accommodation, fire safety is critical.

In fact, landlords and providers of specialised housing and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) have a duty of care under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to ensure that their properties meet all aspects of fire safety compliance.

Yet, right now, question marks reside over the state of fire safety in the UK. Each week, the news highlights a number of incidents, suggesting a lax approach toward fire safety compliance by some. While it’s true that the running of HMOs and specialised housing facilities is more varied, fire safety compliance remains the same for all.

Vulnerability at night

In 2017, the National Fire Chiefs Council produced a comprehensive guide, titled Fire Safety in Specialised Housing. The guide includes a series of recommendations designed to protect the estimated three quarters of a million residents in specialised housing.

Amongst escape routes and warning signs, fire doors are recognised in the document as a major contributing factor to fire safety. For all buildings, fire doors are the first line of defence when a fire does occur, helping to protect premises by preventing or slowing down smoke and fire from spreading.

What’s more, fire doors act as protection for residents when they’re most vulnerable – while sleeping. It’s documented that most fires in the home occur when people are asleep (between the hours of 10pm and 6am).

Through compartmentalisation, fire doors are key in providing occupants those extra seconds, and in a building with multiple residents, this can be a huge contributing factor for successful escape. With this in mind, the importance of correct installation and maintainence can’t be understated. Without it, fire doors simply won’t function effectively.

However, all too often, fire doors are the one piece of equipment that is subject to neglect, becoming a secondary concern by landlords and facility managers. In some cases, they are the first item to be downgraded in a specification as a way of saving money.

Even if the correct fire door is chosen, they can often be used incorrectly, being left propped open or even locked, and are often badly maintained and damaged.

It’s no surprise to learn that fire door failure is still a prominent problem in many residential settings. In 2015 alone, 58 percent of all fire door fines were issued to landlords of HMOs in the UK. Adding to this, a recent report led by the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) found that 61 percent of the fire doors inspected had fire or smoke seals missing or were installed incorrectly.

At the same time, one in three had gaps of 3mm or more between the door and the frame – making them suspectible to increased fire damage. Failure to meet the stringent regulations associated with fire safety compliance can result in legal action and heavy financial penalties. So why are we seeing this large number of incidents in this sector?

A sound sleep

In order to remain compliant, education is key. It’s now as important as ever for landlords and facility managers as a collective to improve their understanding of fire safety and alleviate the pressure associated with fire safety compliance.

When used correctly, fire doors can protect occupants from danger for anywhere between 20 minutes and 120 minutes – depending on the specification of the door. Using what is commonly known as ‘the five-point check’ – checking certification, gaps, seals, hinges and closing mechanics – enables a user to see if a fire door is functioning as it should be.

Responsibility lies with the landlord, but any staff should also have a responibilty to report any doors not functioning correctly that are in a HMO or specialised housing facility.

The smallest of changes in a fire door’s function can have detrimental effects. Although landlords have ultimate responsibility for ensuring that fire doors are compliant and fit for purpose, sometimes a full inspection may need to be carried out by a qualified specialist.

Should an issue be found with a fire door, it’s important to know that contacting a certified inspector is an option, as opposed to leaving it to chance.

There’s no longer an excuse to leave fire safety to chance. Moreover, there’s no longer a need to lose sleep over fire safety compliance. Begin with the basic checks and seek further advice should it be required. No occupants of specialised housing or HMOs deserve to live in constant concern of fire safety.

For more, visit www.allegion.com

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Wednesday, 18 September 2019

Register to attend the 2019 Fire Door Symposium – 26th September, Waterfoot Hotel, Londonderry

This free informative and educational event for building owners, managers, architects and property management professionals is taking place as part of Fire Door Safety week 2019.

The half-day symposium will feature seminars from four keynote speakers, focussing on the topic of Fire Door Safety. Attendees will hear from industry experts such as ABLOY UK, the Automatic Door Supplier Association (ADSA), the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) and Fire Doors Inspections, part of the KCC Architectural group.

The keynote speakers will discuss areas such as fire door and hardware safety, issues relating to specification, installation, maintenance, certification and compliance, what can happen when it goes wrong, powered pedestrian doors and accessibility considerations, for example.

The half-day event will commence at 9am on September 26th 2019, in the Waterfoot Hotel, Caw Roundabout, Londonderry, with lunch and refreshments provided for attendees. Registration for the event is free but places are limited so if you or your team would like to attend, register your interest at symposium@firedoorsinspections.com.

This event has been proudly facilitated by KCC Architectural and Fire Doors Inspections and kindly supported by Elite Doors Ltd, GEZE, Firestop and Access2.

www.kccarchitectural.com

www.firedoorsinspections.com

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