83 Automatic Doors, Access Control & Smart Security Also online at www.dijonline.co.uk Door Industry Journal Spring 2026 modifications engineers commonly carry out in real-world retrofit scenarios. These tests will focus initially on timber fire-rated doors, which represent the most common scenario when automating existing manual doors but review of steel, aluminium and composite doors may follow at a later date. Typical modifications may include drilling holes through the door leaf or replacing existing hardware. Each of these changes can potentially affect the integrity of the door structure. By recreating these scenarios in controlled fire tests, ADSA hopes to build a clearer picture of how such modifications influence performance. “Once we understand what happens in those conditions, we can begin to provide meaningful guidance,” Darren explains. “It allows us to move beyond assumption and base advice on real testing and observed outcomes.” Building clearer guidance for the sector The ultimate aim of the project is to translate testing insights into practical guidance for ADSA members and the wider industry. Rather than prescribing a single universal solution, the work will help engineers better understand the likely implications of common modifications and how they can be managed responsibly. For example, guidance may include recommendations on acceptable hole sizes for cable routing, appropriate fire-stopping methods and other installation considerations that help maintain fire integrity. This will provide engineers with greater confidence when adapting existing fire doors while also helping specifiers and building owners make more informed decisions. Crucially, the initiative reflects ADSA’s wider commitment to aligning technical understanding across sectors that share responsibility for fire safety. Bringing together expertise ensures that the conversation reflects the realities of modern building design and maintenance. Supporting safer decisions for building owners For building owners and facilities managers, the guidance will also highlight an important message: automation and fire safety should be considered together, not in isolation. Many decisions to automate doors are made with positive intentions but without technical understanding, modifications could unintentionally affect fire performance. By strengthening the evidence base around retrofit modifications, ADSA aims to help building owners approach automation projects with greater awareness. At the same time, the initiative recognises that replacing an entire fire door set is not always the most practical or sustainable solution. With the right technical insight, many existing doors can be adapted responsibly. “We’re not saying that fire doors shouldn’t be automated,” Darren reiterates. “Automation plays an important role in improving accessibility and usability in buildings. What we want to ensure is that when those modifications are made, they’re done with a clear understanding of how they affect the door’s fire performance.” By bringing together industry expertise, test evidence and practical guidance, ADSA and its partners hope to close the knowledge gap around retrofit automation - ensuring fire-rated doors continue to perform as intended, even as buildings evolve to meet modern accessibility and operational needs. For more information about ADSA’s work, to find an approved ADSA member, or to enquire about membership, visit www.adsa.org.uk Alternatively, contact the ADSA team at info@adsa.org.uk or call 01827 216136 Darren Hyde ©Autom8
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mzg2Nzk=