Navigating the world of security standards can be challenging for building owners and developers who are committed to ensuring the safety of their properties. Two frequently encountered standards in this context are PAS 24 and Secured by Design (SBD). While these terms are often used in conjunction with one another, it’s important to understand that they are not interchangeable.
We explore the differences between PAS 24 and SBD, and how they relate to each other in the context of building security.
PAS 24, which stands for Product Assessment Specification, is a security test that evaluates whether doors and windows can withstand typical burglary attempts. During the test, which must be conducted by a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) approved test body, doors and windows are subjected to attacks commonly associated with opportunistic burglaries, such as attempting to manipulate a lock with a screwdriver.
PAS 24 is now required to meet Building Regulations for new build properties in the UK, although there are some equivalent standards that are also accepted.
Secured by Design (SBD) is an initiative run by the police that aims to reduce crime by endorsing products that make it more difficult for criminals to succeed in their activities. SBD accreditation covers a wide range of products, from padlocks and alarms to doors and windows. Products that have gained SBD accreditation give confidence to buyers that they will provide a robust level of security.
The SBD logo acts as a mark of approval, and the scheme as a whole has been credited with reducing the number of break-ins and burglaries across the UK. It’s worth noting that the remit of Secured by Design has expanded over time to cover not only products designed to prevent crime but also those that relate more widely to public safety and security, such as those designed to keep people safe in the event of a fire.
While PAS 24 and SBD are independent of each other, they are closely related when it comes to security doors and windows. In most cases, products that have achieved SBD accreditation must also meet PAS 24 standards as a minimum, alongside other SBD requirements.
SBD accreditation typically requires a product to have achieved a recognised standard by passing the appropriate test. For doors and windows, the requisite standard is PAS 24. In other words, a door or window that has SBD accreditation must, by definition, have also passed the PAS 24 test.
However, it’s important to note that a product that has passed the PAS 24 test does not automatically gain SBD accreditation. To achieve SBD status, the product must also meet additional requirements set by the police initiative.
As a building owner or developer, specifying security doors and windows that have passed the PAS 24 test and/or achieved SBD accreditation is a wise choice. These standards provide a recognised level of security performance and can contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the building’s occupants.
By choosing products that meet these standards, you can demonstrate your commitment to providing a secure environment and complying with relevant Building Regulations. Additionally, the visible presence of PAS 24 and SBD certified products can act as a deterrent to potential intruders, further enhancing the security of your property.
While PAS 24 and Secured by Design are not the same thing, they are closely related when it comes to the security performance of doors and windows. PAS 24 is a security test that sets a general standard of effectiveness recognised across the building industry, while SBD is a police initiative that endorses products designed to prevent crime and enhance public safety.
At Bradbury Group, we understand the importance of providing high-quality, secure door solutions that meet and exceed industry standards. Our bespoke M2M+24 steel doors meet the industry standard PAS24 certification and are approved by Secured by Design.
Our team of experts works closely with building owners and developers to assess their specific security needs and recommend the most appropriate solutions. We take pride in our state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and rigorous quality control measures, ensuring that every door we produce meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.
Contact Bradbury Group today to discuss your security needs and learn more about our comprehensive range of high-performance door solutions.
