The Door Industry Journal: July 2025

Thursday, 31 July 2025

Balancing Air Movement and Fire Safety: The Important 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 L-700-RX Louvre and the 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.

Healthy Ventilation

It’s estimated we now spend ninety per cent of our time indoors, so it’s never been more important to consider the quality of our indoor air. Essential for good health and productivity, breathing in good quality air matters.

Poor air quality, typically characterised by high levels of pollutants or inadequate ventilation, can lead to unwanted health issues, such as respiratory problems, allergies, and headaches. Poor air quality can also have a negative impact on concentration levels and productivity, making it a real concern for workplaces and educational settings.

From the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in many commercial and household products to a build-up of carbon dioxide, indoor air can be of significantly poorer quality than outside air if buildings are not adequately ventilated. Louvres offer an excellent ventilation solution, yet they also allow smoke and fire to pass through along with air.

Iain Banks, Product Marketing Manager at Allegion UK, commented: “When improved ventilation and general airflow are needed around a building, fitting a door louvre will help to eliminate excess moisture, disperse indoor pollutants and control temperatures.

"By using the natural forces of wind and temperature differences, passive airflow can be created through intentional openings in doors. Metal louvres are ideal for doors in offices, classrooms, or in doors to plant rooms, stores, computer rooms, changing facilities, and manufacturing areas where air circulation is required.

"However, where air can pass, so can smoke and fire. If your door demands ventilation and fire protection, you need a Fire Block Louvre System.”

The Benefits of Natural Ventilation

Improved air quality & energy efficiency
Reduced pollutants in the air
Reduced excess moisture, decreasing the risk of mildew & mould growth
Removal of harmful VOCs & the build-up of carbon dioxide
Reduced potential health issues
Improved concentration, focus & productivity
Improved comfort & sleep quality
Reduced number of sick days taken
Reduced spread of respiratory infections

Iain continues: “Suitable for factory fitting or retrofitting in doors ranging from 29mm to any thickness and with a 50% free area (the amount of space available for the air to pass through), the Zero FBLS Fire Block Louvre System is designed to provide ventilation while also offering fire protection.

"Featuring an intumescent fire block that expands under high temperatures to seal the door space and block airflow, the system offers protection against fire and cold smoke, making it the ideal solution for fire-rated doors to rooms that require ventilation.”

To learn more about the Zero L-700-RX Louvre and the FBLS Fire Block Louvre System, visit zeroplus.co.uk or contact their knowledgeable team at 01785 282 910.

www.allegion.com

https://www.verywellhealth.com/air-pollution-headache-7566891

https://www.buildinggreen.com/blog/we-spend-90-our-time-indoors-says-who

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Wednesday, 30 July 2025

An exciting new chapter: Clearview Group’s first DIJ - Summer Issue 2025

Welcome to the Summer 2025 issue of The Door Industry Journal, and if you think things seem a little bit different, that’s because they are…

This edition marks the beginning of a brand-new chapter, as DIJ becomes part of the Clearview Group family.

We’re delighted to be taking the reins and incredibly proud to be continuing the legacy of a magazine that’s been such a trusted voice in the industry for so many years.

True to form, I've picked out some summer headlines that highlight the articles in this issue:

Novoferm turns up the heat as it celebrates 70 sunny years in manufacturing, catch the milestone on page 10.

Get a fresh take on growth as GfA UK builds brighter futures through training,full story on page 24.

Skills are sizzling as DHF and ADSA wrap an 18-month CiTB programme, see how on page 31.

Trade gets a summer-ready upgrade with JDUK and Wisnioski’s sectional door partnership, details on page 40.

Cool news from Marantec as they open a state-of-the-art training centre, step inside on page 52.

Feeling the heat? Hörmann UK has cold room doors to chill things down, turn to page 62.

Real-world testing meets summer performance as Ellard’s motors go full throttle, see the case study on page 71.

ADIA makes a hot case for upskilling this season, why it matters on page 88.

Stay cool and in control. Radiation resistance in fire curtains gets the spotlight on page 104.

Have a great summer, enjoy the magazine and please get in touch if you'd like to contribute or participate in the next issue.

See you next time,

Gemma

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Raising the Standard: What Defines an Industry-Leading Trade Association

It’s non-negotiable - competence, compliance and consistency - delivered with professionalism, are essential for the automatic door industry ‘s future growth and prosperity.

That’s why these three Cs are the mission of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA): the heart of its work pioneering professional standards, shaping the conversation on competency, and equipping the sector to respond effectively to both regulatory and societal change.

Across construction industry and its many sectors, organisations are under increasing pressure to meet evolving standards, implement best practices and demonstrate that safety and accountability are central to their operations.

This is where trade associations must step in. While many exist to represent their industries, only a few are determined to lead them. Not all associations are created equal. The best don’t just serve as a badge of membership - they act as engines of professionalisation, guardians of standards and champions of future workforce development.

A Profession, Not Just a Job

Powered pedestrian doors perform vital functions in terms of public access, building security and safety. Behind these systems is a skilled workforce whose expertise impacts everything from fire safety and emergency planning to safeguarding and inclusivity.

ADSA’s purpose has always been to professionalise the sector - to ensure those designing, manufacturing, installing and maintaining automatic doors are trained, accredited, and confident in their responsibilities. The association believes this is fundamental to improving quality and safety across the board.

“We have always believed that competency and accountability go hand-in-hand,” says Ken Price, ADSA’s Managing Director. “Our focus has been on creating a pathway for individuals to not only meet standards but to exceed them; ensuring the industry can consistently demonstrate professionalism and earn the trust of the wider construction sector and the public.”

Leading, Not Following

While many organisations wait for change to happen, ADSA takes a different approach - it actively anticipates the challenges ahead and ensures its members are equipped to face them.

The association constantly monitors changes across legislation, technical standards, health and safety and public expectations - working closely with regulatory bodies and technical experts to lead the development of new training and learning resources.

The introduction of EN 17352 - a European safety standard for the safe use of power operated pedestrian entrance control equipment such as powered turnstiles, swing lanes and retractable lanes – is an example of this. ADSA was the first in its sector to anticipate requirements by developing bespoke training and guidance aligned with the new standard when it was introduced. Its course has been running since 2023 and a new renewal accreditation is being developed.

“When standards like EN 17352 are introduced, we don’t wait for the industry to catch up - we get there first,” Price explains. “We work closely with manufacturers, installers and end-users to interpret the implications and provide relevant learning resources so that our members are ready to act confidently and compliantly.”

This forward-looking philosophy is also guiding ADSA’s approach to Martyn’s Law - the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 - which will increase protection from terrorist threats in public spaces. It will place a legal responsibility on venues to mitigate risks, many of which involve access control and entrance systems.

“Legislation like Martyn’s Law demands a level of preparedness that must be built in advance,” says Price. “Our role is to ensure that our members can respond professionally and demonstrate competency the moment it becomes law, not months or years after.”

Raising the Bar on Standards

Central to ADSA’s leadership is its work on industry standards and competency frameworks. These form the backbone of professional practice and are critical to building trust - between contractors and clients, employers and staff, and regulators and the wider industry.

ADSA is not just a conduit for standards - it is an active participant in developing them. One of its most significant contributions in recent years has been to the Joint Competency Initiative, which emerged in response to the Building Safety Act 2022. This legislation marked a turning point in UK construction, placing new emphasis on the need for demonstrable competence at every level of the supply chain.

ADSA has so far invested over 500 hours of expert input into this initiative, providing insight, devising documentation and leadership on how to embed competency standards in the context of powered pedestrian door systems.

“These conversations are long, detailed, and technical but they are vital,” says Price. “Being at the table matters. If we’re not present and participating, the voice of our sector risks being overlooked.”

Not-for-Profit, Built for Purpose

Another key factor that defines ADSA’s leadership is its structure. ADSA is a not-for-profit association. It has no shareholders, no private owners and no commercial interest beyond the good of the industry.

This model allows ADSA to reinvest all income back into member services, training programmes, technical research and policy development. Every decision is made with the long-term needs of the sector in mind.

“Our structure is our strength,” outlines Price. “It ensures that we are always acting in the best interest of the industry - not chasing profit and delivering value.”

Building the Workforce of the Future

Workforce development is an urgent issue across construction and its specialist sectors. As demand for skilled labour increases and experienced workers retire, the need for accessible training and clear career pathways is critical.

In developing an apprenticeship for powered pedestrian door technicians, the association is building those pathways helping people enter the industry, upskill, and progress. Since its launch in March 2021, 70 apprentices have undertaken the process as part of seven cohorts – bringing new lifeblood to the industry.

Continuous professional development (CPD) is also key to maintaining and updating skills and awareness. ADSA delivers this through a combination of classroom and live-stream courses, webinars and e-learning.

The ADSA Academy, an online learning platform updated last year, provides accredited learning, practical guidance and assessments aligned with current industry standards. It’s an essential tool not just for individuals, but for companies aiming to meet compliance obligations and demonstrate due diligence.

Many of its courses are free and the platform now has enhanced personalisation features to support users on their learner journeys. In turn, this supports operational needs and staff retention for ADSA members.

“The future of our industry depends on our ability to invest in people,” reflects Price. “Whether they’re just starting out or have been in the industry for 20 years, they need access to structured development that helps them grow.”

Member Benefits That Drive Real Impact

Membership of ADSA has an extended range of high-value benefits that support businesses technically, professionally and commercially. These include:

Access to training and assessments for staff worth over £4,000 annually including use of the ADSA Academy
Industry-specific courses and technical bulletins with updates on regulations, product safety and compliance
Member communications including Opening Doors Magazine, email newsletters and Tech Talk podcast.
Opportunities to participate in development forums and industry networking events
Inclusion in its Find a Member web directory.

“These aren’t token perks,” states Price. “They are practical tools that make a real difference. Whether it’s staying compliant, winning contracts, or retaining staff, ADSA membership helps companies succeed.”

A Trusted Voice in the Industry

An industry-leading trade association must do more than represent - it must lead with authority, integrity and foresight. ADSA, this year celebrating its 40th anniversary, has a proven track record and continues to be a trusted voice in regulatory discussions, a proactive force in training and standards, and a strategic partner for its members.

By remaining aligned with national priorities, engaging directly with legislative frameworks, and reinvesting in the skills and knowledge of its workforce, ADSA is ensuring that the sector it represents is always ready to rise to the challenge.

“At ADSA, we believe that what sets a leading trade body apart is not glossy perks or passive prestige - it is the proactive, consistent and often unseen work to drive industry-wide progress and integrity.

“Our ambition is simple,” concludes Price. “To ensure that every door to our sector opens with professionalism, competence, and pride.”

For more information on how to become an ADSA member email: membership@adsa.org.uk or see https://adsa.org.uk/membership/become-a-member/

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Tuesday, 29 July 2025

As summer slows, uncertainty grows: What’s next for the UK’s fenestration sector?

Neil Evans, Managing Director at VEKA plc, gives his thoughts on the current market and explains what VEKA is doing to help its customers steady the waves.

It’s a clichéd yet almost obligatory way to start any discussion at the moment, but we really are living through unprecedented times.

The global outlook is not short on volatility, with geopolitical happenings, economic pressures and shifting consumer behaviours all reshaping markets daily. And while some of these forces often appear far removed, their effects ripple quickly into local industries like ours.

After years of steady, if unspectacular, performance, the UK’s fenestration sector has unfortunately entered a phase of stagnation, creating pressure that is difficult to ignore. Order volumes are reported as flat at best, discretionary household spending continues to decline and sadly, insolvencies have started to surface. Even those in the sector that have a knack for overclaiming their performance have gone quiet. For transparency, our volumes are in line with 2024.

In contrast to previous years, few can now confidently claim that the sector is outperforming. Privately, even long-standing operators are referring to the current landscape as ‘dire’, expressing their concerns about where the market is. The usual optimism we tend to sense in the summer months ahead of the September to November ‘peak season’ seems muted, and fabricators, installers and suppliers alike are occupied with what comes next.

The most pertinent challenge is that households remain reluctant to commit to big-ticket purchases like new windows and doors. The latest GfK Business and Consumer Confidence research[1] shows that overall consumer confidence continues to sit in negative territory, and although personal savings remain high, spending has shifted. According to Barclaycard’s data, consumers are choosing experiences over major home improvements, even when funds are available.

There is also little sign of external stimulus. Government focus has been on greener technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. Window and door replacements, despite offering proven energy-saving potential, remain largely absent from subsidy or voice. As a result, demand is heavily dependent on discretionary spend – hard when homeowners are adopting a ‘wait and see’ attitude in response to a volatile economy.

It would be wrong to suggest that the outlook is universally bleak, but a lot hinges on the months ahead. As we know, Autumn is traditionally a key period for the industry, as projects scoped and priced during the summer go ahead. This year, quoting activity won’t have picked up as hoped for everybody, meaning that everybody will have to work harder and smarter to convert.

Yet, there are many businesses still making ground. We see it in our business with some customers who have found double digit growth so far this year, and others who have grown for eight consecutive years. Regardless of overall conditions, some businesses are outperforming the market. The differences between those who are growing or stable and those who are not are becoming more defined. The firms doing well have a clear strategy, they’ve invested in capability, whether production technology, marketing or customer services, and they are actively managing risk across markets. Critically, they are not over-exposed to a single customer group or channel, and have diversified customers across retail, commercial and public sectors – because it’s rare to see all sectors in decline at once.

Manufacturers and systems houses are also being asked for more, such as technical input, commercial support, help with marketing and even operational advice. At VEKA, we have seen this shift first hand. Increasingly, our most successful partners are those who approach us as collaborators. They share their challenges and plans and ask us to add value beyond ‘just’ hugely reliable supply. In return, we are candid about what’s achievable and where we can add value.

We know that now, more than ever, customers need partners who can be relied on. While we recognise that we are not immune to market forces, we are strong and stable on a solid foundation. Unlike some in the sector, we remain free from the financial pressures that have unfortunately challenged others in recent months. Our supply chain is secure; balance sheet is strong and our family ownership is rock solid.

This robust foundation allows us to continue investing in our services, product development and technical and marketing support.

While we will continue to invest and support, there is also a shared responsibility. The fabricators and installers who weather this period successfully will need to work harder to stand out. That means marketing better, quoting smarter – all while avoiding a race to the bottom – and managing costs tightly. Most importantly, they need to be open to change.

That means reaching into the sales opportunities provided by the whole VEKA product range, thinking critically about what they want to stand for, and communicating this successfully to their customers, whether new or established. Importantly, it means seeking out support from suppliers and using it to its full extent, as well as investing in being seen.

In a recent discussion with several installers, they emphasised to me that they had seen a positive shift in the role of recommendation as a source of leads and as a source of conversion. Real people with real experiences as the basis of choice.

For the market to turn, the industry needs to make it happen – and VEKA is here to help lead the charge.

www.vekauk.com

[1] https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn02817/

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Monday, 28 July 2025

ARRONE TS 008 tested letterplate receives Certifire mark

The TS008 tested letterplate from ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand, helps protect homeowners from ‘letterbox fishing’ without compromising on sleek design and functionality. Now, when fitted with the associated ARRONE intumescent kit the AR708HS is supported by Certifire certification for use on supported 30 and 60 minute timber doors.

The Warringtonfire Certifire certification scheme covers passive fire protection products such as door hardware on fire doors. This includes other fire protection systems that work to contain fire, heat, and smoke, with the aim of limiting fire spread.

Holding the Certifire mark of approval provides customers and end-users alike with confidence that the product has been fully tested by a reputable third-party company and that it will perform as it should in the event of a fire.

These principles are of paramount importance to HOPPE with dedicated technical managers overseeing the testing and certification process of products.

The AR708HS TS 008:2022 tested letterplate features an anti-theft steel guard solution with a slimline cover on the inside door that offers a more discreet finish. With a projection of just 21mm, the cover provides non-restrictive door opening, even when the door is fully opened.

The non-intrusive design has an adjustable stepped internal sleeve which prevents the internal flap of the letterplate from being fully opened. This, combined with steel side guard plates, offers protection against letterbox fishing and letterbox manipulation, while still allowing post to pass freely.

The AR708HS letterplate has been tested to TS 008:2022; the latest technical specification for enhanced security and general requirements applicable to letterplate assemblies and slide through letter boxes. It offers a means of assessing how products perform against opportunist attacks, and all new doors fitted with a letterplate must pass this standard to be PAS 24 and Document Q compliant.

www.hoppe.co.uk

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Sunday, 27 July 2025

Catch a Summer Ride Out with Royal Enfield

Riders are invited to discover the current Royal Enfield model range at various riding events, including four Royal Enfield Demo Day rides, known as RED Days, at various locations across the UK in July and August, as well as the upcoming Women in Moto weekender, a Royal Enfield Owners Club Rally with the Himalayan 450 in Wales, and the next Journey, Destination, Memories event to take place in Norwich.

These events provide riders with even more opportunities to experience the current model range in the UK, with the one-of-a-kind community spirit that the Royal Enfield Riders Club is known for.

Royal Enfield Demo Days

The popular Royal Enfield Demo Days (RED Days) continue into summer 2025, with upcoming dates announced across July and August that will feature the entire Royal Enfield 2025 lineup for riders to test.

Saturday, August 9 2025 - RED Days @ CREWE MOTORCYCLE CENTRE
136-146 West St, Crewe CW1 3HQ
Book your slot here.

Sunday, August 24, 2025 - RED Days @ MIDWEST MOTO
Business Park, Ribbesford Rd, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 0TF
Book your slot here.

Women in Moto

The annual Women in Moto show, now on its fifth iteration, is set to take place on 16-17th August 2025 at Uttoxeter Racecourse, inviting the entire motorcycling community to get together and immerse themselves in all things moto, including test rides on the latest Royal Enfield range.

This is a weekend celebrating the incredible women in motorcycling, with inspirational speakers and panel talks from the women winning races to extraordinary solo tourers, workshops to get hands on, and plenty of riding opportunities for riders of all levels.

Royal Enfield Owners Club Rally

Converging at Baskerville Hall in Wales from 15th-17th August 2025, the Royal Enfield Owners Club is set for a weekend exploring the 100 acres of surrounding forests & fields on the Himalayan 450.

Other Royal Enfield motorcycles will be available for test rides, with the Owners Club keeping numbers limited to around 200 to ensure equal opportunities for everyone in attendance.

From Thursday arrivals, there will be a full programme of activities on Friday and Saturday, Royal Enfield-related activities include:

• Hot & Cold! A presentation of Bill Grigg’s Royal Enfield adventures in Iceland and Morocco

• Basic off-road tuition sessions – Royal Enfield Himalayans provided

• Group ride-outs and route maps for suggested DIY rides

• Guided Trail Ride

• Have a ride on an old classic Royal Enfield

• Bike Judging

Cost: Free to Royal Enfield Owners Club (REOC) members and £10 for non-members (refundable if you join the REOC during the weekend).

Find out more here.

JDM - Wings and Wheels, Moonraker Motorcycles

Following the huge success of the initial ‘Journey, Destination, Memories’ ride at CooperB Motorcycles, the next JDM event has been confirmed at Wings & Wheels at Felthorpe Airfield on Tuesday 12th August, riding out from Moonraker Motorcycles in Norwich.

No booking is needed in advance, just turn up ready to depart from Moonraker’s at 6:00pm sharp. It’ll be a huge community ride out to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Moonraker Motorcycles - with food and drink by Zaks (Norwich’s American diner of choice).

Find out more here.

Lead image credit: Ethan Sagoo

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Saturday, 26 July 2025

Doors2Floors teams up with Batley Multi Academy Trust for design project

An initiative that gives a unique insight into the style, layout, construction of interior and exterior doors, is coming to the Batley Multi Academy Trust with the MD of a leading manufacturer and supplier of doors at the helm.

Ismaeel Basar, who heads up one of the biggest door retail and manufacturing companies in the U.K, Doors2Floors has agreed to help judge entries from pupils who have been tasked with designing and marketing the perfect internal doors, front doors, door handles and more.

The initiative will see learners tasked with social media, design, research and development tasks to test out their business acumen and entrepreneurial skills.

Ismaeel said: “We read about a number of businesses who have worked alongside the Batley Multi Academy Trust. We were particularly impressed with the manner in which staff encouraged students to work with entrepreneurs and professionals, allowing them to think outside of the box and gain a plethora of skills that will help them within the realm of further education and work.

"Through this initiative, we’re providing students with hands-on learning, mentorship and real-world career insights to help them stay engaged in education and build a brighter future.

“By investing in young people today, we’re shaping the skilled workforce of tomorrow while making a real difference in our community. Batley is a place, where we live and work. The people of this town are great and there is a great deal of potential, when it comes to young learners from Upper Batley High School.

“A number of our staff members are ex-pupils at Upper Batley High School. They are all asking if they can also help judge entries. I think it’s because they want a tour of their old stomping ground and help choose the best entries that showcase products such as internal doors with glass. Students are also free to showcase the use of colours and create grey doors, white doors, Mexicano doors, Holdenby doors, cottage doors, white panel doors, black doors, the creative possibilities are endless.”

“The marketing will also be imperative, it will be interesting to see any potential social media support alongside the designs such as how to fit an internal door, how to measure internal doors, the benefits of getting a product from Doors2Floors and more. The winning entry or entries will be manufactured, so I envisage that it will be a very competitive project.”

Based in Bradford Road, Batley, Doors2Floors is one of the UK’s leading retailers, showcasing thousands of products, including bestselling doors from brands such as Deanta and LPD.

Ismaeel and his team, Head Teacher members of the Batley Multi Academy Trust will judge the submissions and pick the winning entry/entries.

Sam Vickers, C.E.O at the Batley Multi Academy Trust, added: “The boys will have to make use of teamwork, creativity, logical thinking, and problem solving and communication skills in a variety of ways.

“This will test entrepreneurial skills along with marketing and research and development. They will have to show a great deal of tenacity and aspiration to tackle the project presented to them.”

www.doors2floors.co.uk

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Friday, 25 July 2025

Why certification matters in door hardware

Rob Adams is a technical manager for ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand. He is responsible for making sure all new and existing products have the right certifications, and that the right evidence is in place. With the ARRONE AR708HS TS008 tested letterplate recently achieving the Certifire mark, Rob answers some key questions about the process of certifying door hardware products...

What is the process for gaining Certifire certification?

After conducting initial product testing in-house, making any subsequent product changes and collating evidence, we put products through third-party testing – in this case Certifire.

Certifire is an independent certification scheme overseen by Warringtonfire. It is recognised worldwide as a mark of fire safety for passive fire products including door hardware.

The certification process begins with evaluating test evidence followed by audits conducted at production sites. Sampling and testing may be carried out during these audits, with the results contributing to the overall certification decision.

Once approved, a certificate is issued and listed on the Certifire product register. Regular factory audits are held to ensure production control systems still meet the criteria and the product certificate is reviewed every five years.

How important is it for the doors and windows marketplace to have confidence that products such as the TS008 letterplate have the right certifications?

Customers and end-users alike need reassurance that the product has been tested for quality and performance especially in the event of a fire.

These certifications mean customers can make an informed choice about which products suit their needs, while demonstrating that due diligence has been served throughout the entire process.

With testing and certification combined it shows that a product is fit for purpose when correctly installed.

What is more, continued factory audits and regular product certificate reviews give vital assurance not just at the outset, but throughout the product’s entire lifecycle.

What are the different certificates and what do they mean?

In Europe and the UK, until Brexit, CE marking was the standard conformity mark used for products. A CE mark signifies that a product sold in the European Economic Area (EEA) has been assessed to meet relevant safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.

As part of the UK’s departure from the European Union, the government had brought in rules requiring products previously CE marked to shift to a new United Kingdom Conformity Assessed (UKCA) mark. There had been a 30 June 2025 deadline set for construction products to be UKCA marked, but this has been extended indefinitely.

How does the withdrawal of the national fire testing standards in England in 2025 change certification?

Approved Document B of the building regulations on fire safety has been using both European (EN) and British (BS) standards for fire resistance. The British Standard BS 476:22 has been running concurrently with EN 1634-1.

However, from 2 March 2025, BS 476 no longer applies, with the BS EN 13501 series becoming the sole standard on fire classification of construction products and building elements and EN1634-1 for fire testing for doors and windows.

Having one standard to reference makes the testing system more straightforward. One case where the European standard requires a different approach to the British Standard would be testing a letterplate, such as the AR708HS, which requires a significant hole through the door to fit. BS476 tests the pressure at different points compared to the EN1634 test and is therefore more in-depth.

HOPPE is well-prepared for this legislative change as our test evidence has been carried out to the more onerous European standard.

www.hoppe.co.uk

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Thursday, 24 July 2025

The Importance of Radiation Performance in Fire and Smoke Curtains

When considering fire safety systems within buildings, fire and smoke curtains serve a critical function in limiting fire damage and safeguarding occupants. A key, yet sometimes overlooked, component of their effectiveness is radiation control.

Radiation performance is vital in ensuring escape routes remain tenable and in reducing the risk of fire spread. Many products within the Flameshield range are approved by fire engineers and building control authorities specifically because of their exceptional radiation resistance.

Understanding Fire and Smoke Curtains

Fire and smoke curtains are deployable barriers designed to compartmentalise fires and contain the spread of smoke. They are automatically activated upon receiving an alarm signal, they descend to create protected escape paths and mitigate fire progression into adjoining areas. Additionally, they are frequently installed to protect boundaries near pedestrian areas or adjacent buildings. Their role is particularly significant in fire strategy planning, especially in modern structures where open layouts and complex evacuation routes are common.

What Is Thermal Radiation and Why Does It Matter?

In fire safety, radiation refers to the heat energy emitted by flames and heated surfaces, which can travel through space and ignite nearby combustible materials or cause injury to individuals. Effective control of this radiated heat is crucial for preventing secondary ignition and ensuring that escape routes and protected zones remain safe for evacuation.

The ability of a curtain to manage thermal radiation is determined by its heat resistance and its capacity to reduce heat transfer. High-performance curtains are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures while limiting the amount of radiated heat passing through. Fire curtains are typically tested to ensure radiation does not exceed 15 kW/m² at one metre.

BS 8524-1 & 2: What the Standard Says

The British Standard BS 8524-1 and BS 8524-2 govern the specification, application, installation, and maintenance of active fire curtain barrier assemblies. According to section 5.3.1 (page 13), "Barrier assemblies replace static partitions and therefore have to descend within a clear space. Therefore the problems of surface temperatures DO NOT APPLY, but integrity, radiation and occupant tenability is still relevant."

It further notes that where thermocouple placement would impede the intumescent reaction of materials, insulation performance cannot be assessed, and thus the curtain must be evaluated solely for integrity and radiation performance.

Section 5.3.2.1 of BS 8524-2 outlines three approaches to assessing radiation in relation to tenability:

· A simplified approach for horizontal routes in residential dwellings.

· A fully fire-engineered approach for horizontal escape routes, with detailed guidance and data provided on page 25 and subsequent tables in BS 8524-2.

· A fully fire-engineered approach for all other applications.

Benefits of Radiation-Resistant Fire Curtains

1. Enhanced Occupant Safety
Limiting thermal radiation ensures that escape routes remain usable and safe, supporting efficient evacuation during a fire.

2. Reduced Fire Spread
By preventing nearby combustible materials from igniting due to radiant heat, these curtains help to contain the fire within a designated area.

3. Asset Protection
Fire and smoke curtains safeguard critical infrastructure, sensitive equipment, and valuable assets from heat damage.

4. Regulatory Compliance
Many building regulations require radiation control in fire barriers. Specifying radiation-rated curtains helps ensure compliance with relevant fire safety standards.

Technological Advances in Radiation Control

Modern fire and smoke curtains utilise advanced materials and engineering to improve radiation performance. Key innovations include:

· Intumescent Coatings
These expand under heat, forming an insulating barrier that enhances thermal protection.

· Precision Engineering
Ensures consistent, reliable deployment and optimal coverage, which is essential for maximum effectiveness during a fire.

Conclusion

Radiation performance is not merely a technical parameter; it is a critical life safety feature. As buildings become more complex, the demand for robust fire safety solutions intensifies. Specifying fire and smoke curtains with proven radiation control capabilities is essential for protecting lives, limiting property damage, and complying with modern safety standards.

A1S’s Flameshield EW120 S fire curtain offers industry-leading radiation protection and is fully compliant with BS 8524-1 and BS 8524-2.

To learn more about our EW120 S Product visit: https://zma.to/har

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Wednesday, 23 July 2025

Setting the Standard for Quality Training

In our previous edition, we introduced Marantec UK’s state-of-the-art training facilities - designed to raise the bar for industry education in door and gate automation. Now fully operational, these sessions are already making a significant impact on both our customers and internal teams.

For customers, the training has become a valuable resource. Attendees leave with a deeper understanding of the full Marantec product range, improved installation techniques, and greater confidence in troubleshooting and system integration. This hands-on approach means they’re not just learning - they’re applying knowledge in real time, which translates directly into better performance on-site.

Our staff have also benefited immensely. From onboarding new team members to upskilling experienced professionals, the training centre has become a hub for continuous development. It ensures our team remains knowledgeable, responsive, and aligned with the latest innovations in our product range.

What truly sets our training apart is its practical focus. Each session blends technical insight with real-world application, creating a learning experience that’s both engaging and effective. As demand continues to grow, we’re expanding our programme to offer even more tailored sessions that meet the evolving needs of our partners.

Interested in Training?

If you or your team would like to benefit from our expert-led training sessions, it’s easy to get started. Simply register your interest on our website at www.marantec.co.uk/training and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your training requirements.

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Tuesday, 22 July 2025

UNION unveils matt black door closers for design-led interiors

UNION has launched stylish new versions of its four most popular door closers in a stunning matt black finish that fits perfectly with its levers, latches, and hinges for a complete door offering for modern interiors.

Offering a contemporary alternative to traditional silver, the new products take the trusted performance of the CE3F, CE24V, CE26V, and Retro-V and add a bold aesthetic to meet today’s architectural trends.

The new door closers provide greater flexibility and visual appeal while meeting the trade’s need for readily available, easy-to-install products that meet all the industry standards required in commercial settings.

New aesthetic – trusted performance

The function of a fire door closer is critical to the fire safety of a building. Each of these closers are CE and Certifire approved for use on fire doors, in all three fixing positions. This offers suppliers and installers complete peace of mind in delivering a compliant solution.

The CE3F is a remarkably robust yet flexible rack and pinion door closer, providing incredible value for money and including a specific mounting template for each position to prevent mistakes.

The CE24V is CE-marked with an EN power size of 2-4 and is one of the easiest ways to refresh fire doors, as each door can be updated using just two tools – and then adjusted to close perfectly.

The CE26V is CE-marked with an EN power size of 2-6 and is easy to adjust, offering great flexibility to the specifier and installer. It can be used in almost all applications, including extra-wide or heavy doors, providing significant site flexibility and reducing the need to hold lots of stock.

Retro-V is the perfect door closer for retrofitting and keeping your existing door fire-safe. The easy, convenient way to replace older door closers, it uses the existing holes and positions so users can fit a new door closer in minutes without the worry of contravening the door’s fire certification and all from 1 box.

“The CE3F, CE24V, CE26V, and Retro-V door closers have long been recognised by the trade thanks to their outstanding safety and flexibility,” comments Debra O’Kelly, Safety Category Manager at UNION. “With these exciting new looks, they are now perfectly suited to design-led modern interiors, providing an understated and stylish visual option without compromising on performance.”

Explore UNION’s new matt black door closers here: https://www.uniononline.co.uk/uk/en/products/door-controls/rack-and-pinion

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