The Spook-tacular Importance of ‘Secured by Design’ Doors.

The Spook-tacular Importance of ‘Secured by Design’ Doors This Halloween

Halloween night brings a unique atmosphere, costumes, crowds, and distractions. But for Housing Associations, the increase in foot traffic and masked individuals also means a heightened risk of opportunistic crime, vandalism, and anti-social behaviour.

Your primary line of defence is a robust, reliable entrance. At IDM Doors, we don’t just sell doors; we deliver verified security. This Halloween, we are focusing on the gold standard for property protection: Secured by Design (SBD) doors. We look at why this police-preferred specification is the most effective way to protect your residents and assets, all year round.

What is ‘SBD’ and Why Does it Matter to Social Housing?

Secured by Design is the official police security initiative, and its primary goal is to “design out crime” through physical security. For a door to achieve SBD status, it must pass rigorous physical attack tests to meet the security requirements of PAS 24: 2022.

For Housing Associations and Councils specifying SBD accredited products is essential because it guarantees a proven level of performance against forced entry.

• Reduces Crime: Research shows that SBD accredited doorsets experience up to 75% fewer burglaries and 25% less criminal damage.
• Meets Compliance: It ensures you meet the latest security requirements outlined in Building Regulations Approved Document Q (Security).
• Eases Resident Concerns: It provides your residents with peace of mind, knowing their front door is actively endorsed by the Police.

SBD Accredited Security Features: Beyond a Simple Lock

A standard door may look solid, but SBD accreditation proves its resilience to a sustained attack. Our Secured by Design doors, including our composite and timber fire door sets—incorporate multiple high-security features working together:

1. Anti-Snap Cylinder Locks

Opportunists often use the technique of ‘lock snapping.’ An SBD accredited door is fitted with a 3-star rated cylinder lock, designed to withstand this method and prevent the burglar from gaining easy entry.

2. Multi-Point Locking Systems

This isn’t a single lock. Our SBD doors are secured at a minimum of three points along the frame (often with hook bolts and roller cams), all operated by a single key turn. This vastly increases resistance to force and crowbar attacks.

3. Reinforced Door Construction

From the frame fixings to the robust door leaf material, every component is rigorously tested. Whether you choose a high-performance SBD composite door or a tested SBD composite fire door, the integrity of the entire door set is guaranteed to resist physical intrusion.

4. Security Hardware

Even the letterbox, handles, and glazing panels are tested. Glazing, for instance, must be designed and fitted to prevent its removal or breakage from the outside.

Unlocking Safety: The Dual Benefit of SBD Fire Doors

For multi-occupancy buildings, the security of a flat entrance door is inseparable from its fire safety role. The good news is that there is no conflict between fire and security when using quality, certified doorsets.

The robust construction and high-quality hardware required for a certified FD30 composite fire door is often the foundation for its SBD security rating. By choosing IDM Doors’ accredited flat entrance door sets, you achieve the gold standard in both:

• Fire Integrity: Protecting the means of escape for all residents.
• Security Performance: Protecting the individual resident from criminal entry.

This Halloween, and every day of the year, your planned maintenance programme should prioritise the installation of Secured by Design doors to deliver this essential, dual purpose protection.

To find out how our range of SBD accredited composite and timber doors can be integrated into your next planned maintenance project, contact us at IDM Doors, today.