THE door industry journal summer 2025 31 Industry News Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk DHF and ADSA lead industry forward with robust competence frameworks for Door, Gate, and Shutter systems In a landmark development for the built environment sector, the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF), and the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA), have completed an extensive 18-month programme facilitated by CiTB, to develop new competence frameworks for the powered pedestrian door, industrial door, steel doorset, and automated gate sectors. This milestone CLC initiative, born from the results of the new Building Regulations and the Hackitt Report, marks a significant advancement in the construction industry, and one that is set to reshape national expectations for safety, quality, and competence of individuals who operate in these sectors. There are four frameworks, each comprises a detailed Strategy Statement, a defined Route to Competence, and a comprehensive Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB) matrix. The door, gate and shutter system frameworks are scheduled for public release in early July, with an official launch planned for September in alignment with Fire Door Safety Week, an initiative led by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). DHF and ADSA have also worked closely with the BWF on a complementary competence framework for timber doorsets, including both fire and non-fire-resisting variants. Raising the bar on competence In an industry where safety-critical systems are installed and maintained daily, the need for a competent workforce is absolutely essential. The frameworks aim to clarify expectations, provide structured career development pathways, and ensure that competence is measurable, auditable, and demonstrable. This is more than a regulatory exercise; rather, it represents a cultural shift across the sector. With increasing demands for quality assurance, traceability, and accountability, the frameworks serve as a vital tool for raising standards and reducing risk. Sector collaboration and industry-led delivery The work was carried out under the umbrella of the Sector Led Group 10 (SLG10) for Door, Gate, and Shutter Systems (DGSS), ensuring that voices from across the industry, including manufacturers, installers, trainers, and end-users, helped shape the final product. By drawing on real-world experience and practical insight, the frameworks are not only technically rigorous but are also fit for purpose across a diverse range of environments and applications. Influencing national standards During the development process, DHF and ADSA teams identified critical gaps in the existing National Occupational Standards (NOS) for door, gate, and shutter systems. As a result, both associations now sit on the NOS review group along with leaders in the industry, some of whom are members of either association. Facilitated by CITB, all who contribute are playing a proactive role in reshaping future standards at a national level, and ensuring consistency, relevance, and improved safety outcomes across the UK. Supporting the ‘Right Person, Right Card’ approach A further benefit of the new frameworks is their alignment with CSCS card allocation, reinforcing the principle that the right qualifications and training should underpin every site role. This provides clarity for employers and clients, while giving skilled workers a clear route to recognition and progression. DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens said, “These new frameworks set a clear, nationally recognised benchmark for what ‘good’ looks like, not just in technical ability, but in the knowledge, behaviours and experience required to work safely and effectively. DHF is proud to be part of leading this initiative, ensuring that employers, clients, and specifiers can have absolute confidence in the people they put on site.” Ken Price, Managing Director of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association, added, “Our challenge has been to create documents that define consistent routes to competence, but that also recognise the fact that employees in our industry can come with a wide range of transferable skills from their earlier careers. We have spent many hours creating our output and have been supported tremendously by the standards development teams at the CITB whom I wish to thank.” Employers, contractors, and industry bodies are encouraged to review the new frameworks and ensure their workforce is aligned with the latest competence standards. The documents will be available shortly via the CITB website. www.dhfonline.org.uk
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