The British Woodworking Federation, whose members manufacture around three million third party certificated fire doors in the UK each year, welcomes the news that the Government is implementing in full the recommendations of the Hackitt Review.
The Building a Safer Future plan is a much needed step forward for the industry, providing an effective regulatory framework and more accountability which will be supported by the introduction of clearer standards and guidance. Product safety performance and traceability will be key, with testing and certification intrinsic to driving this forward.
The British Woodworking Federation has a long history of driving the agenda of product testing and certification to help raise industry standards. Through the Fire Door Alliance, we work with our members, partners and wider industry bodies to continue to improve the quality, safety, traceability of fire doors.
Whilst product performance through manufacture is key to safety, so is installation and maintenance throughout the product lifecycle and the BWF is pleased that this has been recognised in the Building a Safer Future plan.
The creation of a stronger voice for residents will help identify any safety risks and this is why we will continue with our award-winning Fire Door Safety Week, helping to increase awareness of fire safety and educating building owners and users about the importance of fire doors. Fire Door Safety Week 2019 will once again be dedicated to improving the safety of residents and will be fully aligned with Building a Safer Future’s commitments to creating a more rigorous system.