»»

ALISON ASTON , PRODUCT Manager for Door Closers at UNION , an ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions brand , discusses the fire safety issues locksmiths should consider when fitting door closers , and offers a step-bystep guide to installing the new CE3F rack and pinion door closer .

Fire safety legislation is an ever-increasing and complex part of any building ’ s design . Most reputable businesses and landlords are keen to uphold their responsibilities , as besides the human risk and property damage , any resulting prosecution can be significant . Fire doors must be self-closing and , therefore , require a CE Marked and tested door closer to be fitted correctly and maintained .

The level of detail and knowledge needed when it comes to specifying firesafe hardware products is often overlooked . Therefore , it is essential that locksmiths have a good understanding of the legislation covering fire compartmentation and egress , in order to offer valuable insight and experience .

GUARANTEEING SAFETY

Fire doors play a vital role in the fire safety of buildings , and their correct specification , installation and maintenance is paramount to the safety of all those who use the building . Quite simply , if they do not close properly , they are unsafe and not fit for purpose .

To help ensure buildings are ‘ fire safe ’, compliant door closer products meeting EN1154 , 1155 or 1158 should be used . It is important that all products be CE marked and have passed a fire test to EN1634 standard . However , a one in the fourth digit of a CE mark doesn ’ t tell the full story .

Locksmiths must check test time , door type and power and fixing positions evidence , to ensure they are 100 per cent safe . Frustratingly , this information can often be hard to find . As a result , locksmiths can be assured peace of mind with the CE3F , which is fully compliant and transparent .

Building owners should be wary of installing cheaper alternatives that do not meet the necessary standards , or by substitution , weakens or removes the doors original fire certification .

INTRODUCING THE NEW CE3F

There is no question that ensuring fire safety should be a top priority . The new CE3F is the solution and is now available at an affordable price .

Most UK fire doors are less than 950mm wide , so the CE3F rack and pinion door closer is ideal . It is the only fixed EN size 3 rack and pinion door closer in its class

that is CE Marked and fire rated for timber and metal fire doors , in all three mounting positions : regular , transom and parallel .

Furthermore , all the required parts are included when purchased , meaning the install could not be easier , including smart timing-saving features , easy to follow instructions and online ‘ howto ’ videos .

‘ if they do not close properly , they are unsafe and not fit for purpose ’

It is also Certifire approved and is remarkably robust , having undergone rigorous testing . This is supported by a ten-year guarantee .

Locksmiths only need to stock one product , with no additional parts required , all backed by certified evidence and UNION ’ s guarantees .

It is easily retrofitted to the most popular closers in circulation , as the body and arm fixing holes align .

THE CE3F IS THE ULTIMATE ENTRY LEVEL PRODUCT ;

• Fully tested solution

• Everything in the box

• Low opening forces with high closing forces .

A true fit and forget it product !