BM TRADA Certification has launched two Q-Mark certification schemes to classify the service life of doors.
“Performance doorsets” and “High performance doorsets” are designed to offer manufacturers and specifiers more assurance that a product will behave as specified.
The test programme, based on sister company Chiltern Dynamics’ “classification for service life”, was developed from the need to differentiate between the various demands experienced by doors in different locations.
To achieve the Performance doorset Q-mark, manufacturers must engage in consultation to evaluate the product’s design and likely end use. Appropriate testing to European and British test standards will then result in a category of duty – light, medium, heavy and severe.
Characteristics to be tested include vertical load; soft and heavy impact; slamming; abusive force on handles; water tightness; and wind resistance.
The schemes require companies to have an approved Quality Management System, usually ISO 9000:2000 and continuing, regular audit testing and factory inspections. Doorsets carrying the High performance Q-Mark will be suitable for the most demanding end uses and offer the longest anticipated service life.
