Standards Compliance
Setting the standards
Abloy UK is committed to ensuring those responsible for specifying, installing and maintaining escape and fire doors are up to date on the relevant standards. Fitting the correct system can mean the difference between saving lives by allowing occupants to exit a building, or failing to do so.
There are a number of building regulation standards in place that relate to access control. It’s essential that these are adhered to, in order to ensure safety and security. These include BS EN 179 Emergency Escape (for when the building occupants are aware of the building environment), BS EN 1125 Panic Escape (for environments used by the general public) and BS EN 13637 Electronically Controlled Escape Systems (for use on escape routes).
Electric Locking
In the event of an emergency such as a fire, there needs to be a reliable exit route that allows a quick and easy escape, so ensuring the correct locking solutions are installed at access points is crucial.
There are safety advantages to be gained by opting for an electric locking system – such as a motorised or solenoid lock – rather than choosing door magnets. This is because there can be fire risks associated with installing a magnet on a door which is used as a fire escape, as they require special arrangements to guarantee they are fail-safe at all times in the event of an emergency. For example, some door magnets require an alarm or ‘request to exit’ mechanism to allow someone to exit, so there could be delays for people needing swift egress in an emergency situation.
Solenoid locks, like the Abloy EL560, work by controlling the handle and are suitable for internal doors of public buildings, offices, schools or hospitals, and external doors of apartments and detached houses. Motorised locks, like the Abloy EL520, work by drawing the bolt back once a proximity card or device is presented. Both locks automatically secure a deadbolt upon closing, and can be used with escape mechanisms as appropriate to the environment and application.
CE Marking
A CE mark should be present on locking devices too, confirming they comply with EU legislation. It is now a legal requirement for manufacturers of construction products in the UK to apply CE marking to items that are covered by harmonised European Norms (hEN). A CE mark shows that the minimum performance requirements of the product have been met, however it is not always a sign of high quality.
Alongside the CE mark, a Declaration of Performance (DoP) document has to be made available to the customer upon request. DoP’s are legal documents provided by the manufacturer stating that the product (or combination of products) meets the minimum performance criteria for the application in question
PAS 24
PAS 24:2022, an update to the Publicly Available Specification established by the British Standards Institution (BSI), sets the benchmark for enhanced security performance requirements for doors and windows in the United Kingdom. This specification serves as a critical framework for manufacturers, architects, and builders to ensure that their products meet stringent security standards, thereby enhancing the safety and protection of residential and commercial properties.
The PAS 24:2022 standard encompasses a comprehensive set of criteria designed to resist forced entry, including testing protocols for durability, strength, and resistance to various methods of intrusion such as drilling, cutting, and manipulation. It addresses the evolving landscape of security threats, taking into account advancements in technology and materials to provide a robust defense against unauthorised access.
With its emphasis on innovation and adaptability, PAS 24:2022 encourages continuous improvement within the industry, fostering the development of new techniques and materials to bolster security measures. Compliance with this specification not only instills confidence in consumers but also contributes to the overall safety and resilience of built environments.
As the cornerstone of security standards in the UK, PAS 24:2022 underscores the commitment to safeguarding properties and occupants against potential threats, offering peace of mind in an ever-changing world
