The free courses are designed to train installers , security managers , end users and specifiers , giving them the skills and knowledge to ensure maximum safety and security while helping to save lives in an emergency .

The Foundations course is designed to help delegates understand the minimum legal performance criteria for access control locking applications for fire and escape doors , BS EN 179 and BS EN 1125 and help attendees to specify only compliant solutions . They also include the new BS EN 13637 standard on electronically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes .

For individuals who complete the first course , the Foundation Plus course is an advanced add-on , going one step further in educating delegates on in-depth industry standards and compliance terminology . This provides attendees with the knowledge to specify products that are suitable for both the application and door type .

Both courses are led by Pat Jefferies , Commercial Director at Abloy UK , an expert in locks and door opening solutions . Pat is retained by BSI and CEN as the UK ’ s Electric Locking Technical Expert , and is a member of committees responsible for the development and improvement of new standards and legislation across Europe .

Pat explained : “ Abloy UK has always been deeply committed to setting the standard when it comes to emergency and panic escape compliance , and life safety is a critical issue in which we believe education is imperative .

“ Although our products are world renowned for their high performance and superior quality , this can only be realised by the abilities of the people who specify and install them . Specifying and installing a non-compliant solution could put the occupants of a building in danger , and we want to eliminate this risk .

“ That ’ s why we developed the Abloy Academy over 13 years ago - to provide

training of the highest standard . In that time , the Academy brand has gone from strength to strength to be widely recognised as a mark of excellence and accreditation .

“ Evolving legislation means that it ’ s also important to stay up to date with the latest best practice , and being proactive with training is a great way to kick off the New Year .

“ It ’ s not just standards for standards sake . Ultimately , if an emergency escape system is not compliant then lives are at risk , so I take great pride in knowing that the Academy is doing its part in helping people escape safely from a building if they need to .”

The day-long courses take place at Abloy UK headquarters in Willenhall , West Midlands . Courses are free of charge , offering attendees a complimentary educational experience that can provide two years validity on industry standards .

The courses will run on the following dates :

Foundations

Foundations Plus

26 ^th January 2023

22 ^nd February 2023 23 ^rd February 2023

30 ^th March 2023

20 ^th April 2023

24 ^th May 2023 25 ^th May 2023

29 ^th June 2023

27 ^th July 2023

24 ^th August 2023

27 ^th September 2023

28 ^th September 2023

26 ^th October 2023

29 ^th November 2023 30 ^th November 2023

For further information on products and services available from Abloy UK or to book a place on one of the courses , visit https :// www . abloy . co . uk / en / abloy / abloyco-uk / academy / foundations-course /, Call 01902 364 500 , or email info @ abloy . co . uk .