PAS 24:2022: Everything manufacturers need to know

Originally introduced in 1999, PAS 24 has become the independent benchmark for window and door security performance and resistance to attack.

PAS 24 accreditation is awarded on the performance of the overall window or doorset, with specific elements undergoing testing as part of the assessment process, such as, hardware and glass.

In the 25 years since its introduction, there have been regular changes to the PAS 24 standard to ensure it encompasses developments in technology and the new methods of attack used by criminals to gain unauthorised access to properties. So, what do the latest updates mean for window and door manufacturers submitting products for testing?

What does the test involve?

Specific tests are carried out as part of PAS 24. For windows, this includes a glazing test, mechanical load test, manual attack test and a weather resistance test. The PAS 24 test for doorsets includes all of these tests aside from the glazing test, with the addition of a solid impact test and a hard impact test.

Changes from PAS 24:2016 to PAS 24:2022

PAS 24:2022 supersedes PAS 24:2016, which was withdrawn in September 2023. Unlike the changes from PAS 24:2012 to PAS 24:2016, the changes from PAS 24:2016 to PAS 24:2022 aren’t as notable, and only feature a few amendments in comparison.

They cover four main areas:

Clarification of new test methods -

The PAS 24:2022 update predominantly features amendments and additions that clarify how windows and doorsets should be tested. For example, under ‘A.3 Procedure’ in ‘A.31 General’ it is now noted that all samples should be closed and locked ahead of testing.

New test method -

A new test method has been introduced to the ‘A.3 Procedure’ titled ‘Part 3: Door assembly integrity test’. This assesses the ability of the door assembly to protect the lock hardware from attack. It clarifies that the tests in parts 1,2 and 3 are not intended to be accumulative and a focus of attack should not be repeated.

Introduction of an additional tool to ‘Tools – Group B’ -

One interchangeable bit screwdriver*, for the removal of exposed fixings, has been added to others in Group B. The tool has been added to others under manipulation tests for doorsets and windows. This is to be used with other tools to manipulate the sample and unscrew any threaded fastener heads exposed from other methods of manipulation.

Updated references to industry standards -

The changes to the Door & Hardware Federation’s TS 008 standard are also reflected in PAS 24:2022. The standard, which details the enhanced security and general requirements for letter plates and slide through boxes, has recently undergone changes under TS 008:2022, superseding the previous TS 008:2015.

ERA and PAS 24:2022 testing

Situated at ERA’s West Midlands based head office, the UKAS accredited test house is now approved to test windows and doorsets to the new PAS 24:2022 standard.

This independent test house is fully equipped to test windows and doors to a range of latest industry standards and a team of skilled engineers will create an indicative report or a full UKAS accredited report, depending on the requirement of each manufacturer.

Customers are able to utilise the test house to put their products through their paces, demonstrating their window or doorsets suitability for security and weather resistance, in order to gain the latest PAS 24 accreditation.

In terms of products, ERA has a range of hardware and smart security offerings that have been successfully tested, internally within its own test house, as part of the wider PAS 24 test for ultimate customer peace of mind.

Why is PAS 24 accreditation important?

As of 2015, Approved Document Q of the UK’s Building Regulations, which is concerned with security in new dwellings, states that all new build properties should be able to “resist unauthorised access to any dwelling; and any part of a building from which access can be gained to a flat within the building.” Therefore, doorsets and windows used in new builds must adhere to PAS 24:2022 or an equivalent standard.

For the RMI market, PAS 24 accreditation demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to providing products that offer the very best in enhanced security and is a great way to offer customers peace of mind when it comes to their investment in windows and doors.

It is also important for achieving other recognised industry accreditations, such as Secured by Design (SBD); the official police security scheme that aims to improve building security through its Police Preferred Specification accreditation, which recognises products that can deter and reduce criminal activity. To achieve an SBD accreditation, it is essential that doors and windows have been certified to the PAS 24:2022 standard.

By working with a trusted security partner with the technical expertise to advise window and door manufacturers on the latest requirements of PAS 24:2022 and other industry standards, businesses can ensure they are compliant, meeting customers’ expectations and maximising sales opportunities.

*Of length (200 ±20) mm long overall with PH1 to PH3, PZ1 to PZ3, T5 to T30, H2 to H6, hexagon heads range 4 mm to 10 mm and slotted 3.5 mm to 6.5 mm bits.

For further information on ERA’s diverse portfolio of security products and its UKAS accredited test house, contact the sales team at 01922 490 000 or email [email protected].