IRONMONGERY AND SECURITY A
fundamental shift is coming to how the industry has to present evidence that fire doors and hardware perform correctly. The UK’s long-established National Class system is now being phased out of Approved Document B, making way for the European Classification framework set out in EN 13501. With this, from September 2029, fire performance evidence based on BS 476 will no longer be compliant, marking a significant change for suppliers and merchants.
For decades, fire performance compliance has relied on BS 476-22 for fire resistance and BS 476- 31.1 for smoke penetration testing. However, these standards, supported by assessment-based approaches for product variations, will no longer determine compliance.
EN 1634-1, under EN 13501, will bring changes to the current testing process, including how results are extended to product variants and how compliance is documented. Crucially, this means that from 2029, existing BS 476 evidence can no longer be used to demonstrate hardware compliance. As a result, merchants must ensure that the products they supply are tested to guarantee that the new requirements are met. In the run-up to the new standards being introduced, preparation and planning is essential.
The changes
BS 476 was formed as part of the UK’s National Class system, under which fire resistance and smoke penetration were assessed using a separate group of tests. These tests are often supported by assessment extensions for the compliance of product variations.
EN 13501 relies on harmonised test methods to demonstrate performance. While the principles may be similar, the EN framework applies more prescriptive rules around testing, evaluations, and
PREPARING FOR
EN 1634-1
Sabrina Bettles, technical product manager at Quanex group explains the coming legislation changes for fire door and hardware performance.
end results. This is why existing BS 476 evidence can’t be transferred.
For suppliers, the most significant changes to the new EN classification lie in product variations. Under BS 476, test evidence could be extended, following an assessment, across different variants, such as glazing options, door size, or hardware configurations.
Under EN 1634-1, the scope of a fire test is defined by Direct Application (DIAP) rules. DIAPs set out what can be changed without an extension. Where suppliers require performance evidence beyond the limits of a DIAP, an extended application procedure standard (EXAP) will apply. An EXAP defines the extension requirement for a specific product or doorset.
While the UK Government has stated there is the possibility of using Technical Assessments for compliance, this has not yet been confirmed. However, such assessments may be limited where an EXAP standard is already outlined.
sliding doors allow rooms to remain functional regardless of door position, supporting smoother circulation throughout the home. Beyond easing the flow of movement, sliding door systems can strengthen the connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces, as well as helping spaces to feel larger and more connected when open, whilst providing the flexibility to create instant privacy when needed.
fresh air and natural daylight circulation through connected spaces such as, kitchens, dining rooms and living areas.
For many, sliding doors have become a key tool in achieving this balance. Unlike traditional hinged doors, sliding doors operate along a fixed track, eliminating the need for swing clearance and minimising spatial disruption. As a result,
As residential design continues to evolve, the demand for adaptable home environments will only rise. Though, more than ever before, design teams are provided with the freedom to meet these expectation. They now play a vital role in shaping how spatial flow is achieved, blending form and function at every turn inside modern homes. BMJ
August 2026
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
While the transition to the EN 1634-1 standard creates new pressures across the industry, these challenges are manageable with the right approach. Merchants should ensure that the suppliers they work with either have this evidence in place or are at least seeking to update their records as soon as possible. Ensuring early action is key. With this, merchants partnering with suppliers who are prepared for the changes will guarantee that they have the right stock available, ahead of the 2029 deadline.
Ultimately, to ensure long-term resilience, merchants must engage with suppliers and create clear roadmaps for their partners. To ensure complete confidence, merchants can also opt to get ahead by sourcing suppliers that already have EN-ready products available, such as hardware brands ERA and Zoo.
Working with door hardware suppliers that already have competitively priced, EN-ready components available will help to create a resilient and sustainable supply chain ahead of the changes coming into force. Merchants that do will navigate the transition smoothly, futureproof their offerings, and strengthen the credibility of the products they stock.
Compliance through collaboration
There is no doubt that the transition from BS 476 to EN 1634-1 marks significant industry change, but it also presents an opportunity. Ultimately, it will provide customers with greater consistency, clarity, and confidence. However, success under the new framework requires early planning, informed decision-making, and collaboration across supply chains.
With merchants being urged to begin preparations ahead of the shift, now is the time to engage with trusted partners. Exploring EN- ready products can make all the difference as we navigate this new classification landscape. BMJ
33
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40
