In 2014, the Government announced its intention to deliver a radically simplified system for setting standards in the design and construction of new homes.

This marked the first time that the security of new homes was given serious weight and importance within Building Regulations, with the publication of Security in dwellings: Approved Document Q, as a method of demonstrating that accessible windows and doorsets contribute to a dwelling meeting requirement Q1 of the building regulations.

Within the document, the Government also recognized the BSI-published industry specification PAS 24 Enhanced security performance requirements for doorsets and windows in the UK. Doorsets and windows intended to offer a level of security suitable for dwellings and other buildings exposed to comparable risk as the focus for the new building requirement, applicable to new build properties.

PAS 24 has been amended, with the most recent update being PAS 24:2022+A1:2024. This amendment was essential to keep pace with evolving criminal practices and to ensure the standard remains effective in preventing common types of burglary.

The revisions reflect changes in criminal modus operandi and include updates to referenced industry documents. They also clarify test methods based on feedback from accredited test laboratories and UKAS.

To learn about how standards support the provision of security services, click here.

What is PAS 24?

PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 is a Product Assessment Specification (PAS) that defines the enhanced security performance requirements for doorsets and windows in the UK.

It provides detailed methods for testing and assessing the security of these products, specifically targeting their ability to resist attacks from casual or opportunistic burglars.

The primary purpose of PAS 24 is to ensure that doorsets and windows are capable of withstanding attempts to gain unauthorized entry through methods typically associated with casual or opportunistic burglars.

This standard is particularly valued for its focus on real-world attack scenarios, rather than purely theoretical or isolated component testing. As such, it is a key component in the UK's approach to building security, forming the backbone of Part Q of the Building Regulations in England and Wales, and featuring in section 4.13 of the Scottish Building Regulations.

What is the scope and application uses of PAS 24?

PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 applies to a wide range of doorsets and windows, irrespective of the materials used in their construction. It covers various types of windows and doors, including:

• Windows: Top hung, side hung, tilt and turn, sliding, fixed casements, and more.

• Doorsets: Single and double leaf, hinged, sliding, pivot, folding sliding, stable doors, and those with or without integral side panels and fanlights.

The distinction between a doorset and a window is based on the manufacturer's intended use, with products for pedestrian access being tested and classified as doorsets.

What has changed with the 2024 amendment to PAS 24?

The PAS 24:2022 standard has recently been amended, culminating in the updated version PAS 24:2022+A1:2024.

Key updates include:

• Clarified test methods and additional tools: incorporating feedback from accredited test laboratories, the revised standard now offers clearer guidelines on testing procedures, ensuring consistency and reliability in security assessments, to keep pace with evolving criminal practices.

• Updated industry references: the revision also includes updates to referenced industry documents, ensuring that the standard remains aligned with the latest industry practices and technological advancements.

• Material-agnostic requirements: PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 continues to maintain material-agnostic security performance requirements, meaning it applies universally across different materials used in doorsets and windows. However, certification under this standard requires compliance with material-specific standards like BS 7412, BS 4873, BS 6510, BS 8529, and BS 644.

For those involved in the design, manufacture, or installation of windows and doorsets, compliance with PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 is essential for meeting legal requirements and providing peace of mind to end users. Get your copy today.

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