At the end of 2017, several UKAS Accredited authorities withdrew certification for almost all door closers used on uninsulated metal fire doors. With around eight out of 10 metal fire doors specified and sold in the UK being non-insulated, this left many security fire doorsets deemed non-compliant.
A number of certifications have now been reinstated, but with a caveat meaning they can only be installed on the fire risk side of a door. In many properties and locations it can be difficult to determine which side of the door is most at risk of fire so this caveat challenges the use of many door closers being routinely specified for installation on uninsulated metal fire doors.
In response to the ongoing challenges and needs in the industry, ASSA ABLOY has continued with substantial testing and standardising of its door closers.
As a result, its door closers have demonstrated that use on metal fire doors is not restricted by the side of the door to which it is required and remains fully compliant with EN1634 on any uninsulated metal fire door. With no caveats attached this ASSA ABLOY door closer series can provide fully compliant control of fire doors regardless of the desired material specification.
Specification of the correct door and hardware combination is therefore essential to ensure that not only the right architectural appeal and functionality is achieved, but most importantly that safety regulations are not compromised.
To support the complex specification process ASSA ABLOY’s Openings StudioTM software offers a collaborative BIM tool for all project stakeholders. Using a real-time data sharing process, Openings Studio permits greater communication between all involved in a building’s lifecycle – from design and construction to refurbishment and maintenance.
Openings Studio, along with the technical expertise available from ASSA ABLOY, supports the design and specification process to ensure access to fully compliant solutions, seamless integration with the buiding model and critical asset management throughout the construction and design life of the building – delivering all the benefits expected from BIM in construction.
Through Openings Studio construction has access to the widest range of door opening solutions. Doors, hardware, ironmongery and access control solutions can be easily integrated into a building at the touch of a button with complete peace of mind.
ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions is one of very few manufacturers to offer a complete solution of timber and metal doors, hardware and ironmongery through a ‘cradle to grave’ approach of technical specification, manufacture, installation, fire door inspections and service and maintenance packages in support of architects, contractors, facilities managers and end users.
To find out more about ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Door Controls visit: www.assaabloyopeningsolutions.co.uk/en/local/uk/assa-abloy-product-catalogue/door-controls or for more information on unrivalled capabilities of Openings StudioTM visit www.assaabloyopeningsolutions.co.uk/en/local/uk/project-specification/specification-bim/assa-abloy-openings-studio/