Door security, especially in relation to cylinder vulnerability, is currently the topic of much debate within the industry, and opinion is divided with regard to the appropriate response to this increasing threat.
PAS 24 security performances has been a pre-requisite criteria for membership of the Association of Composite Door Manufacturers, since its foundation, and this standard remains the benchmark for ensuring the resistance to forced entry of door sets. Since its initial publication in 1999, PAS 24 has evolved and adapted to ensure door set performance keeps pace with MO’s used by burglars, and its latest incarnation, with an updated Amendment 11 cylinder attack test, is due for imminent publication.
Also due for publication, is the joint Door and Hardware Federation, and Glass and Glazing Federation Technical Standard, TS007. Aimed at setting a benchmark security performance for replacement cylinders and associated hardware, this standard references the same test regime as used in PAS 24, A11, and provides consumers, ensuring the two standards evolve concurrently.
This development is welcomed and supported by the ACDM, as the standard is based upon performance, rather than prescriptive criteria, although, we should not lose focus on the fact that the best route to increase the resistance to opportunist burglary is to opt for a certified PAS 24 door set.
However, we should not lose sight of the fact that, whilst these standards are widely specified throughout social housing through the efforts of Secured By Design and trade associations, the vast majority of the general public are blissfully unaware of the benefits of enhanced security products, and there is no requirement on new build developers to incorporate products with these burglar resistant characteristics.
Given the minimal cost associated with upgrading to PAS 24 resistance for doors, and BS7950 for windows, is it not time for building regulations to recognise the importance of domestic security, and give this issue a similar emphasis as that afforded to insulation and ventilation. The common sense response would be a resounding yes, provided that due consideration is given to the need for security performance standards to adapt to the increasingly resourceful techniques employed by the would be burglar.
To view the comprehensive list of companies producing composite doors, certified to the PAS 24 standard, please visit us at www.acdm.co.uk
