Hoppe comment on PAS24-1 specification

Clive Smith Product Manager Hoppe (UK) responds to Paul Gerrard's comments in Glazine about the PAS24-1 specification.

I was disappointed to read Paul Gerrard's comments (Glazine, April 10) about the PAS24-1 specification.

But I agree that it 'focuses on brute force and ignorance'.

That's exactly the point.

Most burglaries are committed by opportunistic burglars who don't carry modern lock picking tools with them, instead they carry screwdrivers and crow bars.

The PAS24-1 test simulates this type of attack and assures installers and homeowners that the product they are fitting will repel an opportunistic burglar for at least three minutes.

If the bar is set too low so it can be easily achieved, as Mr Gerrard contends, then why doesn't everyone have it?.

With expert advice from the Association of Chief Police Officers, the Police body behind the Secured By Design (SBD) initiative, the PAS24-1 specification is set at a level that works.

Research has shown that SBD principles, which detail PAS24-1 as the specified standard for doors, can reduce burglary by up to 50%.* Paul Gerrard says that manufacturers should use the standard as a benchmark to surpass.

And we do.

Three minutes is the threshold and last year HOPPE defeated the 'tester', who eventually gave up after 17 minutes of attacking the same handle.

The new PAS24-1 specification, including a targeted attack on the cylinder - a recognised weak point - was also surpassed by our Tokyo handle.

The cylinder has to be protected from a sustained three minute attack.

The 'tester' stopped trying after eight minutes.

Surpassing PAS24-1 and becoming SBD accredited is more than just manufacturing a 'fit for purpose' handle.

Two thirds of all burglars gain entry through a door.

So defending this primary route is one of the fundamental pillars of the SBD package.

As a collective set of principles and standards, SBD has reduced crime and that's why it will grow in importance - including the British Standards that underpin it.

Last month the Department for Communities and Local Government issued Technical Guidance notes for the Code for Sustainable Homes were issued by.

They explain that points will be awarded to properties that meet the standards listed in the publication 'Secured By Design - New Homes'.

The standard listed for doors is PAS24-1.

Yours sincerely Clive Smith Product Manager HOPPE (UK).

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