As building safety regulations become increasingly stringent, Shelforce combines unparalleled fire door manufacturing expertise with deep local authority insight to deliver compliant, high-performance solutions for social housing projects.
Fire doors are meticulously engineered safety devices that play a crucial role in the fire safety of a building. For local authorities, compromising on building safety is never an option; as government-funded organisations setting standards for the wider housing sector, selecting the right fire door solution for replacement projects demands unwavering commitment to safety compliance to make sure tenants are properly protected.
The regulatory landscape for building safety has grown increasingly complex, particularly in the wake of recent legislative changes.
“The requirements for fire door specification and installation have never been more demanding," explains Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce. “With the Building Safety Act's 'golden thread' requirements introducing unprecedented demands for documentation and test evidence, local authorities face heightened scrutiny. Regulators now have enhanced powers to hold landlords accountable for non-compliance, meaning every upgrade faces meticulous examination. There really is no room for error now.”
It's why partnering with an experienced fire door manufacturer and supplier becomes invaluable for local authorities to make sure they are specifying and installing the right fire doors.
As a service within Birmingham City Council, Shelforce brings unique insight into the challenges local authorities face. “We understand firsthand what local authorities need when specifying fire doors," explained Howard. “Our position gives us invaluable perspective on ensuring regulatory compliance while meeting the performance requirement in the Building Regulations guidance for fire resistance and smoke control from both sides to provide and peace of mind.
“Understanding fire door regulations and compliance can be daunting; we guide local authorities through the entire process, ensuring they receive comprehensive documentation, including vital test evidence and Field of Application certificates without which they risk installing the wrong door – with potentially catastrophic consequences."
Fully EN tested and third-party accredited, the businesses’ flagship Fireshel fire door complies with the latest MHCLG Annex A recommendations and has set the standard for local authorities when it comes to specifying or replacing fire doors. “The Fireshel ticks every fire, smoke and security box, achieving 49 minutes of fire resistance when tested to EN1634-1 from both sides."
Shelforce's recent investment of over half a million pounds in a new machining centre, which will significantly increase fire door production and efficiency, will maintain the highest manufacturing standards. 
What makes Shelforce the perfect partner for local authorities extends beyond manufacturing. “With decades of experience serving local authorities, we understand the challenges they face and what is important for both them and their tenants,” explained Howard.
“They are under pressure to complete maintenance and refurbishment programmes on time and within budget and flexibility, quick lead times, and competitive prices are why Shelforce are such an attractive proposition.”
As winners of the King's Awards for Enterprise in Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility), Shelforce also leads by example in social responsibility. With 75% of their workforce being disabled, they demonstrate how inclusive employment practices can drive manufacturing excellence, and this commitment to social values naturally aligns with many local authorities' own social responsibility goals too.
“With building regulations and safety standards placing increasing pressure on local authorities, having the right manufacturing partner is crucial,” added Howard. “Our deep understanding of local authority needs, combined with our manufacturing expertise, means we can take the stress out of fire door specification while providing complete peace of mind that every door will be manufactured and installed to the highest standards.”
Shelforce manufacture and supply fire doors and uPVC windows, doors, to local authority and housing association building projects. If you would like to learn about Shelforce’s fully tested and certified solutions or discuss your next project and how Shelforce can help, call 0121 603 5262 or visit www.shelforce.com.
Images © Shelforce
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