FIRE SAFETY & SECURITY
the standards of products. Although each assessment method is designed to grade doorsets between FD30 and FD240, navigating the UK’ s dual regulatory environment can be operationally complex and there may be clear advantages to changing the system, with EN 1634-1 considered a more rigorous testing method and a harmonised approach.
“ With that said, the removal of BS 476 is one of the most substantial changes the industry has faced in decades. The theory behind the recommendation may supersede the reality of its implementation, with concerns being voiced about the level of investment and time required to successfully transition to the European classification system. From a capacity viewpoint, if there is not a sufficient level of testing authority within the UK to cope with the potential demand, we face risking the consistency of hardware products as a result of testing backlogs, corner cutting and project delays. To retain the integrity of fire safety across our built environment, further collaboration and clarity is needed.”
Avoiding the cost of confusion
In what may be a period of transition, there must remain one constant focus throughout. Fire doors and their hardware must be tested to the relevant standards for fire resistance, with manufacturers and duty holders being able to show test data evidence at every step of a building’ s lifecycle- whether that be at the specification stage, installation or once installed. Daniel May continues:
“ Amidst any conflicting signals and re-testing bottlenecks, stakeholders are urged to consider the big picture- ensuring fire safety is approached at the highest level as we look to protect buildings and their occupants. To continue making progress in this direction, there must be a clear understanding on testing standards, examining how CE and UKCA can coexist in both the short and long term and how UK testing bodies may be supported as they move to EN 1634-1.
About Consort Architectural Hardware
For over 30 years, Consort has continued to deliver in its mission to provide highly engineered, quality ironmongery that adheres to the most stringent of industry certifications and standards. As an international, familyowned business, Consort is proud to operate as a single source solution, delivering the best in hardware to markets in the UK, US, Middle East, Asia and South Africa.
“ At this stage, there is no requirement to replace existing fire doors and hardware that comply with the BS 476 standard. Though, as the industry prepares for the changes ahead, the supply chain must also remain reliable in its approach to product testing and information accessibility and transparency. When it comes to fire safety compliance, it’ s now more important than ever to pursue stability and in doing so, decision makers must collaborate with manufacturers that they can trust.”
www. consort-hw. com
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1634 % 2D1 % 3A2014 % 20Fire % 20resistance % 20and % 20smoke % 20control, shutter % 20assemblies % 20and % 20openable % 20windows
SEPTEMBER 2025
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