THE door industry journal summer 2025 88 Automatic Doors, Access Control & Smart Security Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk The Engineer’s Evolution: Why Upskilling is Key in a Shifting Industry The door industry is no longer defined by mechanical know-how alone. As automatic doors become increasingly integrated with access control, safety systems, and smart technology, the role of the engineer is evolving at speed. Today, engineers need a broader skill set; spanning electrics, compliance, fault finding, and customer service. This shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. With legislation tightening and client expectations rising, the need to upskill is more vital than ever. Knowledge is power, and protection A key driving force behind this evolution is the requirement for compliance. Standards such as the BS EN16005, which outlines the safe use of automatic doors for pedestrian use, makes it clear that engineers must be trained and competent. Failure to meet these standards can put lives at risk and leave companies vulnerable under the Health & Safety at Work Act and the The Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC Compliance with BS EN16005 not only ensures the safe installation and maintenance of automatic doors but also supports adherence to the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. While the directive is a legal requirement for machinery placed on the market or brought into service, BS EN16005 is the harmonised standard that outlines how to achieve safety in powered pedestrian doors. By completing accredited training in BS EN16005, such as that offered by the ADIA, engineers demonstrate competence and due diligence, playing a crucial role in ensuring installations meet both legal and safety expectations. But compliance isn’t just a legal necessity, it’s also a professional one. Engineers who understand risk assessment, programming, and component compatibility are far more effective at delivering long-term, fault-free solutions. That’s why the Automatic Door Installation Association has built its training framework around both safety and technical excellence. Accessible, accredited, and engineer-focused At the core of the ADIA’s offering is a selection of online City & Guilds-accredited training courses, delivered to ensure engineers not only understand but can apply what they learn. These include: • BS EN16005 – covering safety standards, risk assessments, and force testing • Service & Maintenance – offering hands-on guidance on various operators, fault diagnosis, and component checks • Access Control Safety and Industrial Door Safety – supporting engineers working with integrated and specialist systems Courses also incude turnstiles, fire door safety, health and safety and more. What makes ADIA’s approach unique is its accessibility. The courses are available online, making it easier for engineers to train at their own pace, wherever they’re based. The association also offers refresher courses, ensuring engineers maintain compliance and stay current with industry developments. Investment with impact For companies, investing in staff training brings measurable benefits: reduced call-backs, improved safety on site, and stronger client trust. And with ADIA membership, training is either discounted or completely free, depending on the course. Members also benefit from: • Inclusion in the DoorSafe Register, showcasing qualifications to clients • A technical helpline • Business support via Citation • Access to free job advertising and promotional opportunities • Discounts on tools, insurance, fuel, and more • Free online service forms In short, the ADIA equips engineers with the tools they need—not just to meet standards, but to exceed them. Keep moving forward The industry isn’t standing still. As door systems become more sophisticated, only those who embrace lifelong learning will thrive. Whether you’re a sole engineer or part of a growing firm, upskilling is no longer optional, it’s essential. And with the right support, it’s also more achievable than ever. www.theadia.co.uk
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