Notice Board only the most durable products are used in these scenarios and whether using non-standard or standard arm applications , hardware must be compliant - with various areas considered , such as meeting DDA requirements by paying close attention towards the opening forces used in public spaces . And while manufacturers have a responsibility to test , label and supply the highest standard of product , decision makers must then also choose to apply hardware that meets the requirements of the building in question .”
Avoiding Costly Errors
In some cases , design teams will face a choice between the initial costs of certified products and their less reliable counterparts . Although economic considerations are often part of the construction process , durable hardware will continue to perform long after its initial supply period , whereas cheaper hardware alternatives can become counterintuitive , failing to offer that same quality and durability and leading to costly consequences .
Later in a building ’ s lifecycle , where less durable products have been used , complications can arise . With this , the costs associated with future maintenance and replacements can quickly begin to add up and work against the original decision . Not to mention the expense to building safety .
More recently , sustainability continues to grow into the conversation , fairly asking questions about the environmental impact buildings omit . As was referenced at the recent COP26 conference , the built environment and construction sector accounts for 38 % of the world ’ s Carbon Emissions . For the UK specifically , it ’ s said that 45 % of the total UK carbon emissions are associated to the built environment and changes must now be made to avoid both environmental and reputational costs . Daniel adds : “ The time has come for decision makers to do their part to limit the consumption of construction resources too , and certified architectural hardware can play its part here too . Hardware can also gain environmental certifications , such as ISO 14000 , which is a set of standards designed to reduce environmental waste and damage .
“ Similar to Certifire , BREEAM is a thirdparty sustainability assessment method focusing on infrastructure and buildings . Hardware products can become recognised under independent standards - providing users with peace of mind that products are more durable , ethically sourced and environmentally resourceful . The aim is to reduce replacement hardware and the amount of packaging that is associated with replacements . And extended durability - represented through certifications - is the way forward .
“ The benefit of using certified architectural hardware is now more clear than ever . From performance benefits to dependability , all hardware - even the often-overlooked lever handles and flush bolts - should meet the requirements of their building , and there ’ s no better way to ensure this than with certified products . Building design will benefit from raised standards , and right now , decision makers can benefit from certification-led design .”
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Sources ; https :// www . warringtonfire . com / certification-services / fire-certification / certifire , https :// ukcop26 . org / events / construction-the-built-environment-and-constructionsector-accounts-for-38-of-global-carbon-emissions-come-and-learn-how-the-construction-leadership-councils-construct-zero-industry-change /, https :// www . breeam . com
JAN / FEB 2022
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