COMMERCIAL SAFETY & SECURITY
“ Naturally , modern technology developments and legislation changes will continue to drive product enhancements . Take door hardware , for example , a crucial component of a building ’ s fire safety , security and everyday operation . There will always be a responsibility to ensure the hardware in older buildings remains up to standards and that we are meeting the latest in safety and sustainability regulations .
“ As time passes , hardware experiences wear and damage and the replacement of aged components becomes necessary . And in some cases , new products will emerge as an improvement on previous applications . With that , an effective retrofit could significantly enhance the functionality of a door and the fire safety and security of a building - not to mention the environmental benefits associated with installing better , long-serving products .
“ Effective retrofit projects can safeguard the quality of our buildings in the future , making crucial improvements to cost , safety and functionality . Although , without a proper understanding on the subject , mistakes will readily undo the good work that many are aiming towards . A poorly specified or incorrectly installed retrofit could prove costly - in terms of money and time - and even present a danger to the integrity of a building ’ s fire safety .
‘ decision makers must understand the reasons behind their choices ’
“ A retrofit must be completed consciously and professionally , with reliable replacements . Failing to do so could be a breach of the Regulatory Reform ( Fire Safety ) Order . Whether an environmental or safety conscious choice , the first step of any retrofit installation is to ensure the selected hardware replacement is suitable for application , and decision makers must understand the reasons behind their choices or seek professional guidance .
“ For door hardware specifically , retrofit projects must also be compliant under UKCA and CE certifications and be fitted to the manufacturer ’ s instructions , in accordance with BS EN 1154 . Decision makers can refer to the Code for Construction Product Information ( CCPI ) for clear , accurate , up-to-date and accessible product information - in line with the Building Safety Bill ’ s regulatory framework known as the Golden Thread of Information .
“ While the benefits are clear , all retrofit projects must be compliant with the doors testing certification . Consequences often result from retrofits that are not properly thought out , especially when the selection of appropriate alternatives is flawed . Generally , to improve understanding of what is required , education on the subject must be developed further . Because with a long-term , large-scale strategy , retrofit projects could provide wide-reaching returns for all involved .”
www . allegion . com
https :// laidlaw . co . uk / architectural-ironmongery / standards-legislation / 03-door-closers-bs-en-1154-1155 / https :// www . constructionleadershipcouncil . co . uk / news / code-for-construction-product-information-ccpi-published / https :// www . gov . uk / guidance / the-building-safety-act | https :// www . gov . uk / government / publications / building-safety-bill-factsheets / golden-thread-factsheet
NOV / DEC 2022
45
Magazine Sponsor Issue Takeover locksmithjournal . co . uk