From the Editor
WHAT WE OUGHT TO KNOW IN OCTOBER
Darker nights , colder mornings , shorter days . The 10th month of the year not only justifies a couple of extra layers ( not just clothing , but eating all the Trick or Treat chocolate that I won ’ t be able to hand out ), it signifies National Home Security Month . And , just as darkness provides an extra shroud of secrecy for burglars , we are also warned of the extra threat of ‘ thieves coming out of furlough ’ this year . Thankfully there ’ s help at hand in the form of our NHSM feature , offering security solutions from the outside in ; everything from CCTV to cloudbased monitoring , locks to letterplates , smart tech to suited knobs and knockers .
» NHSM HASN ’ T BEEN THE ONLY SIGNIFICANT EVENT IN safety and security since the last edition of the magazine , as Fire Door Safety Week also took place this September . In response , many hardware brands and businesses have researched and revised guidances and released their advice accordingly . From manufacturing to maintenance , specification to installation , fire safety is never a place to cut corners ; commercial or residential . And , now that office and education buildings are back in use - albeit in different ways , for many - there has never been a more important time to remind ourselves , and re-educate each other on doors and hardware in this sector .
Fire safety , home security , and now there ’ s a third ‘ hot topic ’ in hardware ; it is of course hygiene . From touchless access control to copper door handles , automatic closers to handsfree openings ; 2020 has proved - and then some - that if we are living and working in a ‘ new normal ’ or even a new new normal then we need a hands-on ( or rather a hands-off ) approach to adapting and evolving our choice of hardware , where it is specified and how it is installed .
And while this year has been all about the C-word and how the world has pulled together to try to combat and conquer it , Brian Morland takes a look back to historical locksmiths , those that worked during wartime to keep us all safe , and the mark they have left on the world as we know it today .
All of this , plus the usual hints and tips , product design and developments , exclusive interviews , expert commentary , news and reviews , business advice , and movers and shakers in the industry . If you want to be part of this next time , get in touch , we ’ d love to hear from you .
Now , pull up a pumpkin , and enjoy …
Gemma , Editor
Unlocking your potential
Enrolment now open for ironmongery qualification from the GAI .
» ENROLMENT IS NOW open for the Certificate in Architectural Hardware ; a self-led , online course and examination in two stages . The Certificate is part of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers ( GAI ) education programme that has been developed over the past 50 years . It is the only internationally recognised architectural ironmongery qualification to British and European standards .
This Certificate is particularly useful for those working in related warehouse and trade counter roles , scheduling and estimating , customer service , technical support , sales and administration .
Stage 1 provides a greater understanding of ironmongery , including locks and latches , fixings and basic scheduling . Those who complete Stage 1 will be fully competent in making informed decisions when working with particular products and materials , and will have a good understanding of best practices and industry standards .
Stage 2 takes learners to the next level , showing them how to apply product and industry knowledge . It also gives a more in-depth understanding of the industry and its components such as fire door hardware , access control systems and intermediate scheduling .
Once the CiAH has been completed , students can continue their professional education with the GAI Diploma .
Deborah Cannon , chair of the Institute of Architectural Ironmongers ( IAI ), said :
“ Education is the most empowering force in the world . It not only improves and expands your knowledge , it builds confidence and breaks down barriers to opportunities . Taking that next step to demonstrate your skills and experience with an industryrecognised qualification will help to secure your career as construction recovers from the impact of COVID-19 . The Certificate in Architectural Hardware is the key to opening your door into the ironmongery industry .”
The IAI is open to experienced practitioners of the architectural ironmongery trade and can help locksmiths to maintain a high level of knowledge after they have completed the Certificate in Architectural Hardware .
Once social distancing restrictions are lifted , locksmiths can attend two IAI branch meetings free of charge . Affiliate IAI membership is ideal for locksmiths and other trades in the door hardware supply chain who want to keep at the forefront of technical updates . Members receive regular e-newsletters on matters affecting the industry as well as unlimited access to the branch meetings .
www . gai . org . uk
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