When selecting security doors for your building, you may come across the term ‘Secured by Design’ or notice the SBD logo. But what does this actually mean, and why does it matter? Secured by Design doors meet police-approved standards for preventing break-ins and resisting forced entry. They’re rigorously tested, built to perform, and designed to offer more than just peace of mind.
If you’re serious about protecting your building, it’s worth understanding what sets these doors apart.
What does Secured by Design mean?
Secured by Design represents the official flagship initiative by the UK Police. It combines crime prevention principles with physical security measures. The scheme works directly with manufacturers to establish security standards that respond to current criminal methods and tactics.
The Police Preferred Specification forms the cornerstone of SBD accreditation. This specification provides manufacturers with clear criteria that their products must meet. Only companies approved by SBD, like Bradbury Group, can produce doors bearing this prestigious mark.
The initiative focuses on ‘designing out crime’ – essentially creating products that deter criminal activity through their very design and construction. This proactive approach proves more effective than reactive security measures.
Why does it matter if doors are Secured by Design accredited?Â
SBD accreditation stands as the only route for manufacturers to gain police recognition for security products in the UK. This exclusivity carries significant weight. Consider these statistics:
- Buildings using SBD-approved products experience up to 75% fewer burglaries.
- They also see a 25% reduction in criminal damage.
These aren’t theoretical benefits – they’re measurable results from real-world applications. For building owners and facilities managers, choosing SBD doors means selecting products that have been tested against actual criminal techniques. Police forces recognise these products as effective deterrents. Insurance companies often view SBD-certified doors favourably, which may affect premiums.
The accreditation also provides peace of mind. You’re not simply trusting a manufacturer’s claims about security. Instead, you’re investing in door ranges that have undergone rigorous third-party testing and received official police endorsement.
What standards must doors meet for SBD approval?
To earn Secured by Design approval, doors must meet strict, police-recognised standards. These products must prove they can withstand forced entry and help prevent crime. The most relevant standards include:
LPS 1175
This standard tests doors against forced entry using tools that criminals are likely to use. This ranges from screwdrivers and crowbars to power tools. Doors are assigned a security rating based on how long they can resist an attack. This allows you to choose the right protection level for your site.
PAS 24
PAS 24 sets out enhanced security requirements for residential and other occupied buildings. It tests the complete doorset, including the door leaf, frame, locks, hinges, and glazing. The goal is to ensure the whole assembly works together to resist attack.
LPS 2081
This standard applies to doors with glazing. It tests whether the glass can resist attempts to break through or remove it from the frame. This includes impact testing and checks for how securely the glass is fixed in place.
What features make a door SBD compliant?
Several critical elements distinguish SBD doors from standard alternatives. Each component plays a vital role in the door’s overall security performance.
Strong frames
The frame is the backbone of any secure door. SBD-approved frames are built to withstand force and prevent the door from being pried open. Steel is often used for its strength and durability. The frame must stay intact, even during prolonged attempts to break through.
Advanced locking systems
Multi-point locks are standard on Secured by Design doors. These lock the door at several points, spreading the force of an attack and making it harder to gain entry. High-quality locks resist picking, drilling, and snapping. Many designs include anti-snap cylinders and reinforced strike plates.
Secure glazing
If the door includes glass, it must be just as secure as the rest of the structure. Laminated glass is common, as it holds together when shattered. The glazing must also be fixed securely in the frame, with strong beading and fasteners that prevent removal.
Reinforced hinges and hardware
Heavy-duty hinges with anti-tamper features are essential. Hinge bolts stop the door from being lifted off, even if the hinge pins are cut. All other hardware (like handles and fixings) must also be strong enough to resist attack or misuse.
How can you recognise an SBD-approved door?
Genuine Secured by Design doors are clearly marked. Look for the official SBD logo, as only licensed manufacturers can use it. Each approved product also has a unique reference number linked to the SBD database.
Trusted manufacturers will provide certification documents. These confirm which standards the door meets and what testing it has passed. Be cautious of vague claims like “police approved” without official SBD proof.
You can often feel the difference, too. Secured by Design doors are typically heavier than standard models due to their reinforced construction. A high-quality finish is another good sign. Reputable manufacturers maintain strict standards across every product.
What are the benefits of choosing SBD doors?
Secured by Design doors offer more than just protection. The certification provides documented proof of tested security measures, which can support insurance claims and help meet compliance requirements. For businesses, these doors send a clear message: security is a priority. They help protect staff, deter intruders, and reduce risk.
They’re also built to last. These doors undergo rigorous testing to ensure long-term performance. That means fewer repairs, less maintenance, and lower replacement costs over time. For building owners, they can even boost value. Buyers and tenants increasingly look for buildings with proven security features.
Why choose Bradbury for your SBD doors?
Bradbury is fully accredited to manufacture Secured by Design doors that meet, and often exceed, police standards. With over 30 years of experience in high-security steel doors, we know what real protection requires and how to deliver it.
Each door is made to measure, ensuring a precise fit that’s essential for maintaining security. We offer a range of security ratings, so you can choose the right level of protection for your specific needs. Every product is built to exacting standards using proven methods.
Our steel doors combine strength with flexibility. Whether you need fire resistance, custom finishes, or a particular aesthetic, we can tailor your solution without compromising on SBD compliance. It’s expert-led, high-quality protection you can trust. Contact our team with any inquiries today.