INDUSTRY NEWS
Fenestration professionals urged to go ‘ above and beyond ’ on windows security
With an estimated 65,000 burglaries reported between July and September 2021 , a windows expert is imploring installers and fabricators to re-evaluate the security credentials of their frames and hardware and seek further assurances from regulatory bodies .
According to ONS , one in five burglars will enter a property via a window . Paired with findings from a recent survey which found that over a third of Brits feel a greater need to protect the security of their homes , compared to before the pandemic , quality windows will be a key safeguard against burglars . Windows in English dwellings must currently comply with Approved Document Q ( ADQ ) of the Building Regulations concerning security , for example by meeting the PAS24:2016 security standard . However , an added layer of credibility can be provided through meeting requirements set out by Secured by Design ( SBD ). The official police security initiative , SBD works with manufacturers and standards authorities to ensure security standards are current and updated in line with emerging crime trends .
With burglary statistics anticipated to rise as people spend more time outside their homes Mark Gajda , Head of Technical Services at REHAU , is appealing to fenestration professionals to consider these higher-level security standards when specifying frames .
“ Security is a key concern for many building occupants because we all want to feel safe in the space we live ,” he explains . “ Burglaries are likely to rise post-pandemic , so window professionals must go above and beyond to provide solutions that meet this need . With this in mind , we ’ ve extended our support for tradespeople by joining the SBD initiative , providing installers , fabricators and building applicants alike with further peace-of-mind on the performance of frames .”
To gain approval against SBD requirements , products must have passed enhanced security testing to PAS 24:2016 . This is completed at a UKAS test centre and requires subsequent submission of relevant reports , which sets SBD aside from ADQ .
Mark continued : “ REHAU has always put strong emphasis on ensuring our products are tested against all fenestration industry requirements to give building users peace of mind . With the addition of the SBD logo , project and building managers have an extra layer of quality assurance .”
“ Because homeowners and building occupants may be concerned about burglaries , they deserve the reassurance that the elements making up their home offer adequate levels of security . This is why it ’ s vital for windows suppliers such as REHAU to keep an eye on how they can exceed the minimum standards of security .”
Secured by Design Development Office Hazel Goss said : “ It has been a pleasure to sign contracts with REHAU Ltd as a new member based in Herefordshire . They offer a fantastic collection of windows and doors on various ranges . I am looking forward to many years working alongside them .”
www . rehau . com / uk-en / approvals
10 FEBRUARY 2022 CLEARVIEW-UK . COM