DHF launches new Best Practice Guide for building hardware sector – supported by Secured by Design

Classification of the Mechanically Operated Push-Button locksets is in five grades. Products tested to BS 8607 incorporate specific performance grades from BS EN 12209 for mechanically operated locks, latches and locking plates, and also requirements of BS EN 1906, BS 3621, PAS 24 and for the overriding cylinder, where applicable, BS EN 1303. A BSI Kitemark certification scheme is available for products achieving grade 5.

The British Standard includes requirements for locksets intended for use on fire-resisting and smoke control doors but does not specify requirements for locksets intended for use on final exit doors on escape routes, which are covered in BS EN 179:2008. The Standard also will test the performance of the lever/knobs as well as the durability of keypads.

Bob Perry, CEO, DHF, explained that the objective of this British Standard is to provide a classification for Mechanically Operated Push-button Locksets.

“These products are generally used as a means of convenience, but they are now also used on fire doors and perimeter doors and the Standard is available to give specifiers guidance on the performance of these types of products.

“Locksets should not only have acceptable documentary evidence to demonstrate that they are fit-for-purpose on any smoke and/or fire-resisting doors for which they are intended but also must be installed correctly. This is essential in ensuring that they are able to operate efficiently within the performance levels described in the Standard.

“We have simplified this Standard for our members, with the Best Practice Guide providing practical help for all those involved with Mechanically Operated Push-button Locksets and offering clear guidance on safety, compliance and the standards that they should be adhering to. This is at the very heart of the support we continue to offer to our members.”

The Code has also received support from Secured by Design (SBD), the national police crime prevention initiative.

Michael Brooke, Senior Technical Officer, SBD, said: "We are pleased to support the introduction of this Code of Practice. We see it as a valuable tool to guide users and specifiers in an area that can be confusing to many. By the appropriate use of the correct product we hope communities and properties will be protected from crime."

DHF’s latest Best Practice Guide is just one in a series of guides addressing the major issues that should be considered when specifying, ordering or using the products it describes. Its objective is to provide its members with a concise and comprehensive document which includes a summary of relevant sections from the new European product standards.

For the Best Practice Guide BS 8607:2014 + A1:2016 visit: https://www.dhfonline.org.uk/publications/best-practice-guides/2.htm

About DHF
DHF represents all the key players in the following sectors: locks and building hardware, doorsets, industrial doors and shutters, domestic garage doors and automated gates. With the ultimate aim of maintaining and raising quality standards throughout the industry, all DHF members must meet minimum standards of competence and customer service. They all operate within a Code of Conduct governing standards of workmanship, quality assurance, training, safety, business integrity and CE marking compliance.

Contact DHF
Tel: 01827 52337
www.dhfonline.org.uk