The Locksmith Journal 113 October 2025 | Page 56

SECTOR INSIGHT

ASSA ABLOY DOOR GROUP CALLS FOR GREATER EMPHASIS ON FIRE DOOR INSPECTIONS TO SAFEGUARD ESCAPE ROUTES

» FIRE DOORSETS PLAY A CRITICAL role in protecting lives by containing fire and smoke, maintaining compartmentation, and safeguarding escape routes. However, even the bestquality, certified products can fail in an emergency if they are damaged, incorrectly installed, or poorly maintained.
Brian Sofley, Managing Director at Door Group, said:“ Inspections are one of the most important aspects of fire door safety, yet they are often overlooked. A compliant fire escape route depends on every doorset functioning as it should. If even one door fails to close properly, has gaps, or has been altered outside of certification, it can compromise the safety of the entire building.
“ Regular, third-party accredited inspections give building managers the confidence that their fire doors are fit for purpose, and that any issues are identified and resolved before they put lives at risk.”
While regulations such as the Building Safety Act place clear responsibilities on those managing buildings, industry research shows many duty holders are still uncertain about their obligations around fire door maintenance and inspection. However, neglecting this responsibility could have devastating consequences in the event of a fire.
As part of its commitment to fire safety, Door Group offers a comprehensive inspection service carried out by BRE-certified inspectors. Tailored to suit specific building requirements, inspections can be scheduled every three, four, six or twelve months.
Each inspection delivers a detailed report with practical recommendations, from remedial works to replacement where necessary, ensuring escape routes remain fully compliant and operational.
Brian added:“ Fire Door Safety Week is a valuable reminder to the industry, but fire door inspections are not a once-a-year consideration, they should be part of an ongoing life safety strategy.”
www. abloy. com

NEW FIRE DOOR HARDWARE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE LOGBOOK

» IN SUPPORT OF GREATER FIRE safety standards, Allegion UK has announced the launch of its new Fire Door Hardware Logbook, a practical guide designed to assist responsible persons with hardware installation and maintenance. Allegion unveiled its latest customer resource in line with this year’ s Fire Door Safety Week, with an aim of drawing attention to two of the most prominent problem areas of fire door safety in improper installation and inadequate maintenance. Allegion’ s new logbook addresses the common issues in these areas and offers accessible guidance on essential compliance requirements whilst simplifying documentation and recordkeeping for those tasked with upholding the integrity of fire door systems.
With an inuitive format covering detailed installation guidance and quarterly maintenance checklists, the logbook acts as a hands on resource for responsible persons and provides comprehensive walkthroughs for each of the critical elements of fire door hardware, including overhead door closers, panic and emergency exit hardware, electromagnetic hold open devices, seals, locks, latches and door furniture. The launch reflects Allegion’ s ongoing commitment to raising standards within the fire door industry. Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, comments:“ As the industry continues to address fire door compliance and building safety, the significance of accurate fire door hardware installation and competent maintenance procedures can’ t be overstated. Our new Fire Door Hardware Logbook is both a valuable tool and a reminder for building owners, facility managers and responsible persons that fire door safety continues to require attention following the specification process.
“ We’ re proud to add another invaluable resource to our library of support tools as we take a proactive step towards improving awareness and education on installation and maintenance. The launch coincides with fire door safety week and presents us with an opportunity to amplify crucial messages, as we look to support best fire door safety practice and positively contribute to safer buildings across the UK.”
To download a copy of Allegion’ s‘ Fire Door Hardware Installation and Maintenance Logbook’, visit: www. allegion. co. uk / en / resource _ centre / product _ catalogues. html
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OCTOBER 2025
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