Media information

September 17, 2013

 New chapter in powered gate safety opens as first candidates gain training qualifications

The first candidates have successfully completed the new DHF Powered Gate Safety Diploma training course. This is the latest initiative by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) in its drive to increase safety levels of powered automatic gates.

 Twenty installers were put through their paces during the intensive two-day course held in Manchester at the beginning of September. They completed a number of training modules, covering all aspects of gate safety from initial risk assessment through to force testing, in order to obtain their coveted DHF Gate Safety Diplomas.

 The training scheme is compulsory for all DHF members who supply and install powered gates or powered gate equipment. It has been put in place by the Powered Gate Group which was set up by the DHF to educate and promote the safe and responsible design, manufacture and installation of automatic gates.

 The DHF Gate Safety Diploma opens a new chapter in powered gate safety in the UK. The training curriculum was developed following consultation with the Health & Safety Executive and is the industry's only scheme to offer this depth of training.

 Said Andy Holz, chairman of the Powered Gate Group of the DHF: "The Gate Safety Diploma course sets a new standard in gate safety. There is no other safety assured training scheme for gate safety like it in the UK and it will quickly become a benchmark.

 "This is not simply about turning up to get the badge. This is about ensuring safety standards are prioritised and every candidate is being fully assessed before qualification for the diploma is confirmed."

 The course is open to installers and all personnel responsible for assessment and inspection of powered gates. The second diploma course is being held in October and further courses will be held early in 2014.

 Chris Threadgold, general manager of Lancashire based Astbury, who successfully completed the course, said: "Safety is fundamental to the work we do and the diploma is the only way forward for the industry becoming safety assured at all levels."

 For more information on the DHF Gate Safety Diploma scheme visitwww.dhfpoweredgategroup.co.uk.

 end

Note to editors: The DHF represents all the key players in industrial, commercial and garage doors and gates, as well as the leading UK manufacturers and suppliers of building hardware, locks and architectural ironmongery.

With the ultimate aim of maintaining and raising quality standards throughout the industry, all DHF members must meet minimum standards of competence and customer service. They all operate within a Code of Conduct governing standards of workmanship, quality assurance, training, safety business integrity and CE marking compliance.

Issued on behalf of the DHF by

Ainsworth Public Relations

0161 427 3861

guy@ainsworth-pr.co.uk

Door & Hardware Federation

01827 52337

www.dhfonline.org.uk

PICTURE CAPTION
Andy Holz, chairman of the Powered Gate Group of the DHF (left), pictured with DHF Gate Safety Diploma assessor Steve Allen and some of the successful candidates.