Chiltern Dynamics has become the first test laboratory in the UK to achieve UKAS accreditation for security testing sliding doorsets to the principles of PAS 24. The company’s equipment and test procedures passed a rigorous UKAS assessment with flying colours and the assessor recommended that sliding doors be added to Chiltern Dynamics’ scope with immediate effect.

In response to industry demand, Chiltern Dynamics drafted the test method to evaluate sliding doors for their enhanced security performance, the first company to pass the new test matrix being Rationel Vinduer a/s.

Chiltern Dynamics Deputy Technical Manager Vincent Kerrigan said, ‘By gaining the UKAS seal of approval, we have opened up a route for these products to be covered in future by the standards.’

There is demand for sliding doors because they offer space-saving, easy access and let in a huge amount of light, but they have not been regarded as a secure product because of their design. However, Mr Kerrigan added, ‘This UKAS-accredited test method, drawing on various published test standards for doors and windows, will enable suitably robust products that successfully complete the testing to gain market recognition.’

The Chiltern Dynamics test method interprets PAS 23 and 24 requirements, referencing aspects of BS 7950 for security testing sliding windows and BS 6375

Part 2 for the operational testing of windows. Praising test engineer Paul Andrews who led the project, Mr Kerrigan said, ‘We were able to draw from our extensive experience of testing windows and doors to devise a firm but fair test methodology which was rigorous enough to satisfy UKAS and BM TRADA’s Q-Mark certification criteria.’

Other test houses have been quick to pick up on the test methodology, Mr Kerrigan added, ‘but we are proud to be first to gain UKAS accreditation. We have an acknowledged record in leading the way in testing. It was Chiltern Dynamics who drafted the initial standard for double doors and contributed to the development of the standard for vertical sliding windows.’

He added, ‘ We will continue to maintain our close supportive links with industry, endeavouring to help open up the market to good, sound products.’