For many people security is a top consideration when buying windows and doors. You want to feel safe and secure when you’re inside your home and that your possessions are safe when you’re away.
Most modern windows have security features built in to them – but not all do. If you want security, ask for evidence that your windows and doors are covered by UKAS accredited third party certification to PAS 24.
PAS 24 is a security standard for doors and windows, which is designed to prevent access to a building by an opportunist burglar. Under most conditions, security window or doorset is only required to operate as a normal window or doorset. However, in the event of an attempted break in by an opportunist burglar, the window or doorset needs to resist the attack, preventing unauthorised access to the building. The security characteristics of a window or doorset are not usually called upon in normal use, but when they are required, it is critical that the product performs as expected.
Secured by Design (SBD) is a police initiative to design out crime on new build developments. As part of SBD requirements, all accessible windows and doors must be third party certified to PAS 24. For more details see their website.
It has been demonstrated that a Secured by Design development can reduce the risk of crime by up to 75%.
Certification: Security
The Bluesky Enhanced Security scheme for doors and windows is designed to give confidence in windows and doors that are manufactured to meet PAS 24.
This is done by:
- Testing of the product design to confirm its performance
- Audit visits to the factory to check that the products are manufactured to the specification that was originally tested
- Audit tests of sample products to confirm performance