Strand Hardware is celebrating a remarkable career milestone as Company Chair Catherine Franks marks 25 years with the company. Since joining the business in 1999, Catherine has been instrumental in its growth and development, solidifying Strand Hardware’s position as a leading supplier of high-quality door and window hardware solutions.

Strand Hardware was founded in 1991 by Jonathan Franks. His daughter, Catherine, stepped into the business in 1999, later taking over as Managing Director in 2006. In 2022, she transitioned into the role of Company Chair, continuing to provide strategic direction and leadership. Under her direction, the company has expanded its portfolio, strengthened relationships with European manufacturers and enhanced its reputation for technical expertise and customer service.

Reflecting on her 25-year journey, Catherine said: “It has been an incredible experience to grow with the company and see how the industry has evolved over the years. Our focus has always been on delivering high-quality products and exceptional service and I’m proud to be part of a team that shares these values. Moving into the role of Company Chair has allowed me to focus on the long-term strategy of the business while supporting the fantastic team we have in place.”

Sales Director Craig Fox added: “Catherine’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in the success of Strand Hardware. Her deep industry knowledge, commitment to excellence, and dedication to customer service have made a lasting impact. We are excited to continue building on her legacy as we drive the company forward.”

Strand Hardware is well known for its customer-centric approach, offering bespoke solutions and expert guidance to its customers. The company remains the exclusive UK distributor for several European brands, reinforcing its commitment to quality and innovation.

Beyond her role at Strand Hardware, Catherine has been actively involved in the industry, serving on the judging panel for the GAI/RIBA Specification awards and more recently, she co-founding Strand Technologies, to enable expansion into technology-driven solutions for safety, security, and control.

For more information about Strand Hardware’s extensive range of products visit: www.strandhardware.co.uk or call 01922 639111

Patient safety and wellbeing always the ultimate priority within the healthcare sector and the integration of appropriate safety measures within building design is key to its delivery. One often overlooked, yet critical, aspect is ensuring that doorways are equipped with reliable finger protection.

Hospitals, GP surgeries, dentists, hospices, and care homes provide services to diverse range of vulnerable individuals—children, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges—making it crucial to minimise hazards associated with door use. Strand Hardware’s Athmer FP600 range of finger protectors offer an advanced solution to meet these needs, providing a robust and dependable safeguard against finger entrapment accidents.

The Need for Finger Protection in Healthcare Environments

Healthcare facilities are high-traffic environments, with doors being opened and closed frequently throughout the day. This high usage increases the likelihood of fingers being trapped, especially on the hinge side of the door. For establishments serving those with limited mobility, reduced situational awareness, or cognitive impairments, the risk is even higher.

Automatic doors, often found in hospitals and clinics, pose an additional hazard as they close quickly and with a firm force, making fingers particularly susceptible to serious injury. The potential for harm in these settings underlines the importance of installing reliable safety devices that can withstand rigorous use while maintaining ease of function.

Strand Hardware’s FP600 Range: Designed for Heavy-Duty Use

The FP600 range by Strand Hardware is engineered to address these safety concerns, offering high-performance protection for various door types, including automatic swing doors. With its innovative design, the FP600 utilises a roller system that ensures fingers are shielded from the hinge side of doors, which is especially beneficial for automatic swing doors.

The FP600’s fabric material is kept under constant tension, using a robust flame-retardant fabric that can withstand heavy cycles of operation. This tensioned fabric seamlessly covers the gap between the door and the frame, automatically engaging when the door is opened and retracting neatly when closed. Such a mechanism ensures the safety of users without compromising the smooth operation of the door.

Key Features of the FP600 Range

1. High Cycle Durability: The FP600 range is tested to withstand up to 200,000 cycles, making it suitable for high-traffic environments such as hospitals and care homes.
2. Flexible Length Options: Available in standard lengths 1925mm and 2015mm and special to order sizes from a minimum length of 325mm to a maximum length of 3000mm, making it adaptable to most single and double action doors and powered pedestrian door sets.
3. Maximum Fabric Travel of 260mm: Ensures complete protection on the hinge side, even for doors that open wide.
4. EN16005 and EN16654 Compliance: The FP600 meets stringent European safety standards, providing assurance that it delivers reliable and effective protection.
5. Easy Installation and Tamper Resistance: With an easy-fit CLICK system, the FP600 offers straightforward installation and prevents tampering and is ideal for use on doors which require a lot of maintenance.
6. Cleaning Products Resistance: All Athmer finger protection devices are extensively tested against a range of disinfectants and cleaning solutions.
7. Versatile Application: The product is suitable for use on a variety of doors, including automatic and manual types, making it ideal for healthcare facilities where different door configurations are common.

Aesthetic and Customisation Options

Strand Hardware understands the importance of aesthetics in maintaining the therapeutic and welcoming environments of healthcare settings. The FP600 range comes with a Satin Anodised Aluminium (SAA) housing finish with a Black flame-retardant fabric. For those seeking a tailored appearance, bespoke housing RAL colour matching is available upon request, allowing facilities to seamlessly integrate finger protection devices into their overall design scheme.

The FP range combines durability with convenience. There are a number of variations available including a waterproof version which is suitable for external use, and one designed for glass doors.

Says Craig Fox, Sales Director at Strand Hardware: “In healthcare environments, hygiene is critical to prevent the spread of infections. The FP600 range is not only easy to fit, but it can also be quickly removed and reattached for thorough cleaning, ensuring that high hygiene standards are maintained without compromising safety. This also makes them ideal for doors that require regular maintenance both internal and external.”

Safety First in Healthcare: Why Choose Strand Hardware?

Strand Hardware’s FP600 range is not just a product—it is a commitment to safety and peace of mind. Its award-winning German Safety Mark certification is a testament to its superior quality and reliability. By choosing the FP600, healthcare facilities can ensure they are providing the best possible protection against finger-trapping hazards, particularly on high-risk automatic doors.

To learn more about how the FP600 can enhance safety in your facility watch our video here

Strand Hardware has launched a brand new set of technical data sheets for its extensive range of finger protection devices, packed with more detail and clarity than ever before.

Designed to meet the exacting standards of architects, specifiers, and architectural ironmongers, these enhanced resources answer frequent client questions on finishes, sizes, material composition, technical specifications and British Standards compliance.

The updated data sheets make it easier to understand the unique features of Strand’s range of seven finger protection devices, with clear, easy-to-view tables and finish/fabric swatches that showcase product options at a glance. Additionally, critical compliance information, such as British Standard testing requirements for fire doors, is now explicitly detailed, giving buyers confidence in selecting the right solution for their needs.

Craig Fox, Sales Director at Strand Hardware, said: “We’re delighted to release these new data sheets, which are a big step forward in providing the transparency our clients want. All the key information—finishes, specifications, compliance standards, and technical data—is now readily available in one place, making the decision process faster and simpler.”

The new technical data sheets are now available for download - see individual products for details.

Strand Hardware’s FP600 offers robust finger protection for high-traffic environments.

Designed for facilities like schools, hospital and care homes, the FP600 ensures safety for vulnerable users, including children and the elderly. With durable flame-retardant fabric, the FP600 shields fingers from accidental entrapment, offering high-cycle durability and easy-fit CLICK system installation.

It meets stringent European safety standards and resists tampering and cleaning products, making it perfect for automatic doors. Available in various lengths and customisable finishes, the FP600 integrates seamlessly into any setting, ensuring both safety and style.

Learn more here

Martyn’s Law – the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill - is set to drive public safety requirements across the UK. This proposed legislation, named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, will mandate stricter security measures in publicly accessible spaces to protect against the threat of terrorism.

As venues and public spaces prepare for these changes, the need for reliable panic hardware is set to rise dramatically.

From shopping centres to entertainment venues and transport hubs, the bill is expected to categorise these venues based on their capacity, with different security requirements depending on the size and type of venue. All will need to implement comprehensive security measures including efficient evacuation and lockdown procedures.

The reliability of panic hardware, particularly devices that can integrate with wider building management and security, will become key to facilitate safe and swift lockdown or evacuation procedures.

Strand Hardware’s Antipanic range could help venues comply with these new requirements. Its solutions meet the rigorous demands of public spaces, ensuring both safety and durability.

These include:

• PH (modular push bar/push pad products)
• PHT (touch bars)
• PHTM (motorised touch bars)

The type of device chosen for installation must reflect occupancy levels and the nature of the building. Other considerations may include the creation of clear opening requirements, the proposed door use, whether it is fire resisting and the operating environment.

For day-to-day use, doors can be opened from the outside with an outside access device. These can be locked or opened from the outside, while still being able to be freely released from inside – maintaining security without compromising the basic panic function.

Motorised panic devices are often used on escape doors which require external access control to restrict who enters a building.

“They can enhance security and enable efficient building management. They can be linked to a variety of access control systems such as swipe card, digital keypad, or proximity readers to allow controlled access from outside.”

It is vital that any panic exit device can operate safely and is durable. All Strand Hardware panic and emergency exit devices have achieved Grade 7 durability standards and are UKCA marked.

Having been highlighted in the King’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, Martyn’s Law is set to swiftly become a legal reality. Architects, building designers and facilities managers will need to prioritise the installation of compliant emergency and panic hardware whether for retrofitting existing buildings or specifying systems in new constructions and planning should begin now.

Incorporating advanced emergency and panic hardware will not only help venues comply but also enhance safety for building occupants.

For more information visit: www.strandhardware.co.uk/index.php/products/window-and-door-hardware/strand-duoflex or call 01922 639111

There’s a quiet revolution underway that is changing the landscape of our towns and cities. A demand for the refurbishment and reuse of commercial buildings – a surge driven by the need for smaller, flexible working spaces and alternative uses in a post-COVID era.

This poses landlords and developers with a challenge – the best way to adapt buildings to the needs of new inhabitants and different uses, while aligning original exteriors with new interior layouts.

Windows are a significant ‘tell’ which need careful consideration not only to maintain aesthetics but to ensure that they can be operated safely and effectively, especially when buildings are being subdivided for multiple occupancy.

Strand Hardware's Duoflex range of window openers are ideally suited to this changing market -offering versatile, modern hardware for high-level, or difficult to reach top hung opening out windows.

The range has variations for timber, aluminium, and PVC-u windows. Each one boasts an adjustable bottom foot bracket, to accommodate different step configurations, avoiding the need for packers or shims, to ensure a seamless look across various window profiles.

“The beauty of our products is their modern design and unparalleled flexibility,” said Craig Fox, Sales Director at Strand Hardware. “Our adjustable bottom foot bracket allows for precise adjustments, making installation straightforward and efficient, regardless of the window material or profile.”

In addition to its functional excellence, the Duoflex range offers a variety of finishes to match any design aesthetic. There are a range of standard powder coated finishes, silver, black, white and plated finishes, satin stainless steel and polished brass. Special RAL finishes are available upon request.

“We offer the largest range of finishes within the market. This flexibility ensures that our products can seamlessly integrate with the existing ironmongery of any building, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal,” he added.

The Duoflex range also includes tandem bars, available in lengths from 300mm up to 2000mm allowing for tailored solutions based on window size and configuration. An optional centre ring can be added for windows that are particularly difficult to reach. This, coupled with a pole operator, enables effortless opening and closing of high-level windows, enhancing user convenience.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, these window openers are engineered to meet the highest standards of durability and performance - a practical choice for modern commercial spaces but also a stylish addition that complements the architectural integrity of any building.

For more information: www.strandhardware.co.uk/index.php/products/window-and-door-hardware/strand-duoflex or call 01922 639111

Small but mighty: the door limiting stay, also known as a door restrictor or door limiter, is a key component which enables functionality and safety in entrance design. Craig Fox, Sales Director for Strand Hardware, outlines how architects might apply these little problem solvers.

Architects strive to design spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, safe, and durable. Every element in a building contributes to these goals, including often-overlooked hardware like door limiting stays. These small but mighty components – which can also be used for windows - can play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and usability of doors within various architectural environments.

From warehouses to modern apartments, grand entrances to internal cupboard doors, a stay device can address a variety of needs including those where there is limited space or where underfloor heating prevents floor mounted door stops from being used.

Their installation can bring a host of benefits:

Preventing Damage to Doors and Surroundings

One of the primary reasons to use a door limiting stay is to prevent damage. Doors that swing open too far can collide with walls, furniture, or other doors, leading to unsightly dents, scratches, and structural damage. This is particularly problematic in high-traffic areas such as commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals where doors are frequently used. By installing door limiting stays, architects can ensure that doors open only to a specified angle, thus protecting both the door and its surrounding environment from unnecessary damage. This small investment can save significant costs related to repairs and maintenance in the long run.

Enhancing Safety

Safety is a paramount concern in any architectural project. Doors that swing open too quickly or too far can pose a serious risk of injury, especially in environments with children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities. For example, in a busy school, an unrestrained door could swing open and injure a passing pupil. In a healthcare setting, a door that opens too widely could block crucial pathways or hit medical equipment. Door limiting stays mitigate these risks by controlling the range and speed of the door's movement, thereby enhancing overall safety.

Protection Against Wind and Elements

In environs prone to strong winds or sudden gusts, such as coastal areas, doors can be blown open or shut forcefully, causing potential damage or injury. Door limiting stays act as a safeguard in such scenarios by restricting the door's movement, prevent it from being thrown open or slammed shut by the wind. This is especially useful for exterior doors, patio doors, and doors in high-rise buildings where wind pressure can be significant.

Facilitating Controlled Ventilation

Ventilation is an essential consideration in architectural design, contributing to the comfort and health of a building's occupants. Door limiting stays allow doors to be opened to a specific, controlled position, facilitating natural ventilation without the risk of the door swinging wide open or shutting unexpectedly. This controlled opening can improve indoor air quality and provide a pleasant environment, especially in residential and hospitality settings where airflow is crucial.

Prolonging Door Longevity

By controlling the range of motion, door limiting stays can significantly reduce the wear and tear on door hinges, frames, and the door itself. This is particularly beneficial in commercial and institutional settings where doors are subject to frequent use. By minimising the stress and strain on door components, these devices help extend the lifespan of doors, ensuring they remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for longer. This not only enhances the building's overall durability but also represents a cost-effective solution by reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Ideal for Various Settings

The application of door limiting stays can be useful in a variety of settings but specifically in:

• Residential Buildings: In homes, door limiting stays are useful for external outward opening doors, patio doors, and internal doors where there is limited space and opening needs to be restricted to prevent damage.
• Commercial Spaces: Offices, retail stores, and hotels benefit from door limiting stays by ensuring safety, security, and durability of doors. In hotel rooms, they allow for partial opening for security, while in retail stores, they prevent doors from hitting display setups.
• Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics need door limiting stays to ensure doors do not interfere with medical equipment or pose risks to patients and staff. Controlled door movement is crucial in emergency situations.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities see heavy door usage. Limiting stays protect doors from damage due to frequent opening and closing and ensure the safety of students and staff.
• Public Buildings: Libraries, museums and government buildings benefit from the added security and controlled access that door limiting stays provide, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.

Strand Hardware offers a variety of door stays – morticed or surface mounted which are suitable for a range of windows, doors and surrounds - timber, aluminium, and Pvc-u. For more information visit: www.strandhardware.co.uk/index.php/products/window-and-door-hardware/friction-door-stays

In conclusion, incorporating door limiting stays into architectural design is a thoughtful and practical approach that addresses multiple concerns, from safety to durability and comfort. The architect’s goal is to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and safe for all users. By paying attention to these small but significant details, we can enhance the overall quality and longevity of projects, ensuring they meet the highest standards of design and usability. The integration of door limiting stays is a testament to the importance of considering every aspect of a building's design, no matter how minor it may seem.

Working for Strand Hardware truly adds up for Moninder Shergill who recently joined the company  as its new Finance Manager.

Moninder will manage the daily bookkeeping operations for Strand, complete essential monthly tasks such as payroll and the preparation of management accounts, and oversee the creation and review of cash flow and budgets. She will also oversee client/supplier account payments – making her a front line contact for Strand customers and stakeholders.

She brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as a Finance Business Partner at GKN Aerospace Services in Solihull. There, she managed daily bookkeeping tasks among other responsibilities, providing her with a strong foundation and relevant industry experience.

Moninder holds a BA in Accountancy from Birmingham City University and is a part-qualified CIMA accountant, further showcasing her commitment to excellence in financial management.

Raised in Loughborough and currently residing in Wolverhampton, Moninder, is excited to join ‘Team Strand’, which will allow her to work nearer to home and achieve a better work-life balance.

"I am thrilled to join Strand Hardware and look forward to contributing to the company's continuing success," said Moninder.

"I am keen to develop efficient processes within the finance function and learn more about the ironmongery industry."

Outside of her professional life, Moninder is dedicated to her family, spending quality time with her husband Aman and their two-year-old daughter, Amrita. She enjoys exploring new experiences with her daughter and cherishes time spent with family and friends. Moninder also loves traveling, with her most recent trip being to Turkey in February this year.

Said Sales Director Craig Fox: “We would like to extend a very warm welcome to Moninder, who with her colleague Accounts Administrator Emma Elks, will provide much needed support to the efficiency of our financial management.”

Safety is a key consideration of architectural design and construction. From foundations to finishing touches, ensuring the safety and security of occupants is non-negotiable. That’s why Strand Hardware's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics and functionality, placing a strong emphasis on safety across its entire range of architectural hardware solutions.

At the core of Strand Hardware's ethos is an understanding of the pivotal role that safety plays in the built environment. Whether it’s failsafe solutions for emergency exit and panic hardware or preventing injuries from fingers being crushed by closing doors, safety considerations are woven into the fabric of every product.

This commitment provides architects, specifiers and building owners/managers, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that Strand’s quality hardware solutions also meet the highest standards of reliability and security.

In the context of doors and windows, safety takes on added significance. These openings serve as crucial points of ingress and egress which require hardware solutions that not only facilitate ease of use but also provide safety and security. Strand Hardware's range of door and window hardware is engineered with these considerations in mind, offering a combination of strength, durability, and functionality to ensure the safety of building occupants.

One of the key elements in ensuring door safety is the selection of appropriate mechanisms for door opening and closing. From door limiting stays to door selectors, Strand’s hardware takes into account a variation of door types, their location and intended use – providing durable solutions without compromise.

Similarly, window safety cannot be overstated. Windows provide natural light and ventilation but must be easy and safe to access while maintaining building security. Strand’s Duoflex range facilitate smooth operation while ensuring that windows can be securely locked when needed. These can be fitted to individual windows or linked with bars and optional centre rings for pole operation at high level or hard-to-reach windows to enable natural ventilation.

Beyond individual hardware components, the integration of safety features into the overall architectural design is essential. Strand Hardware collaborates closely with architects, and specifiers to ensure that its hardware solutions seamlessly integrate with the broader safety and security building measures. This holistic approach ensures that safety considerations are addressed at every stage of the design and construction process - from initial concept to final installation.

Moreover, Strand Hardware's commitment to safety extends to ongoing product testing and certification. Its products undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations, providing further assurance of their reliability and performance.

Safety is a cornerstone of creating a built environment, so whether it’s a new development or a property refurbishment, Strand Hardware is a perfect partner – helping you set the standard for safety excellence.

For more information call: 01922 639111

In times of emergency, you’re in safe hands with Strand Hardware. Although there are many considerations for building specification, few decisions can be as critical as selecting the right emergency exit/panic hardware.

Efficiency and reliability must be a given and while the market offers a plethora of options, ensuring 'safety first' will be the guiding principle for architects and specifiers.

CE marking is a must - best practice determines that products comply with Construction Product Regulations and Strand Hardware’s Antipanic Emergency Exit and Panic range has been rigorously tested and successfully meets these exacting requirements.

Strand’s Antipanic range includes a range of push bars and touch bars suitable for single or double outward opening doors.

For day-to-day use, doors can be opened from the outside with an outside access device. These can be locked or opened from the outside, while still being able to be freely released from inside – maintaining security without compromising the basic panic function.

In identifying suitable solutions, there are a number of key considerations that will ultimately define your shopping list:

1. Product range

Strand Hardware offers PH (modular push bar/push pad range), PHT (touch bar range), PHTM (motorised touch bar range) options. Selection criteria is provided by the EN standards EN1125 and EN179 and should reflect occupancy levels and the type of building. Other matters to be considered include creating clear opening requirements, how the door is intended to be used, whether it is fire resisting, the operating environment etc. Aesthetics and budget will also have a place, but these are secondary to the life safety aspect.

2. Door/frame material and design

Different strikes are used to suit various door materials and construction. For PVCU doors and frames, a range of profile related strikes are available for which the system manufacturer and profile model is needed. Glass doors require patch fittings to suit the escape device and door construction. Whether the doors are fire-resisting and how the door is hung will also have a bearing.

3. Locking latch arrangement and number

Single and three-point pullman latches are available across all the ranges with the ability to convert on site from three point to two-point system. Factors to be considered include whether the door is single or double, construction, material, size and for double doors if the meeting stiles are straight edge or rebated.

4. Outside access

External access can be provided by a mechanical outside access device, using a key, push button digital combination and in most cases either a lever handle or knob. Again, thought needs to be given to how the door is to be used. Most electronic access control systems can be accommodated by use of an internal motorised touch bar device.

5. Size of door

Door widths and heights should be checked before ordering as many wider and taller doors can be catered for from stock by use of wider crossbars, wider model touch bars and extra-long rod kits.

6. Finish

Powder coated white and black finishes are available from stock along with the standard silver grey, which have the option of a green cross bar. A decorative plated satin stainless-steel finish and simulated polished brass are available for many ranges. Where a high degree of corrosion resistance is necessary the DFine grade 316 stainless steel is available. Many other finishes can be provided to special order.

For more information click here

We all like to be beside the seaside, but combatting the effects of salt, humidity and high winds on coastal property may need a little extra help for property owners.

From hotels, pubs and restaurants to leisure and sea-facing facilities such as swimming pools, lifeboat stations and pier buildings, hardware durability is vital to ensure functionality while keeping up appearances.

Strand Hardware's D-Fine range is designed to withstand the harsh conditions prevalent in coastal environments. Made from 316 stainless steel, it is unparalleled panic hardware which boasts anti-corrosive benefits. This makes it the ideal choice for safeguarding properties against the elements while maintaining safety.

Tourism is a vital strand to the economic wellbeing of Britain’s seaside towns. Facilities not only have to look appealing and spotless to attract and retain custom, but also ensure the safety of their patrons.

It is fair to say that coastal properties are subject to unique challenges, including saltwater corrosion, high winds, and extreme weather conditions. Traditional hardware solutions can often fall short in providing long-term protection and reliability in such environments.

D-Fine’s push bars, touch bars and outside access mechanisms are constructed entirely from 316 stainless steel, including all internal and external components. These are designed to resist the corrosive effects of saltwater and moisture and ensure a long life, even in the harshest marine environments. They have even been fitted in ships and on oil rigs.

Beyond functional attributes, D-Fine boasts a sleek and modern design aesthetic that complements any architecture. With clean lines, smooth finishes, and contemporary styling, this hardware solution adds a touch of elegance which seamlessly integrates with any design scheme.

It also provides ease of installation and maintenance - ensuring hassle-free operation for property owners and installers.

By combining superior durability, functionality, and aesthetics, D-Fine sets the standard for safeguarding properties against the elements…even on those rare days when the sun is shining.

For further information visit: https://www.strandhardware.co.uk/index.php/products/d-fine or contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01922 639111

The first signs of spring may just be emerging but when it comes to planning major development and refurbishment projects, it’s essential to look ahead. For schools and other educational establishments, project planning for the summer - avoiding busy term times and scheduling work to minimise disruption – is key.

Safety measures are essential for all public buildings but particularly those used by young people and vulnerable adults. From nurseries, primary and secondary schools, through to colleges and universities – buildings used for learning have specific needs . They are inevitably bustling environs with constant movement, as students go from class to class. It’s important therefore, to minimises the chances of accidents occurring including accidental injuries from fingers trapped in doors.

“Schools, colleges and universities are busy environments and often their estate can include a number of buildings on one site. These can be of different ages and include entrances, corridors, classrooms and lecture theatres, with doors of many types,” said Craig Fox, Sales Director for Strand Hardware.

“Local authorities, academies, college and university estate managers endeavour to create safe and inviting learning environments. These ae constantly reviewed and refurbished to maintain and upgrade facilities. This is a significant undertaking and it’s essential that all elements are fully considered, including the finishing touches to ensure safety.”

Finger protection can often be left off the list, he explains:

“Unfortunately, this essential requirement can often be overlooked until the majority of work is completed and final risk assessments are undertaken. We recommend thinking ‘safety first’ and budgeting for finger protection at the start of the project to allow the purchase of good quality products that offer durability.”

Strand Hardware’s extensive range of finger protection is suitable for all types of doors; manual and automatics, external and internal, single and double action, made from different materials; timber, aluminium, Pvc-u or glass.

All Strand Hardware finger guards are housed in easy-clean aluminium housing and tested to 1,000,000 operations and comply with industry standards.

It’s not just the hustle and bustle of school ‘traffic’ that can present danger. Younger children are naturally curious and may not always be aware of the potential dangers posed by closing doors. Crushed fingers and hands caught in rapidly closing doors can lead to painful injuries and, in severe cases, fractures or dislocations. Finger protection provides a barrier, reducing the risk of such accidents occurring and are therefore ideal for pre-school and primary environs.

Installing finger protection on doors aligns with safety standards and regulations designed to protect students in educational settings. Adhering to these standards not only helps avoid legal implications, but also demonstrates a commitment to providing a secure learning environment for all.

“Obviously with children, there's always an inherent danger,” says Craig. “It makes sense to apply a preventative approach and can also help avoid expensive litigation.”

The costs associated with treating finger injuries can be substantial. Installing finger protection on doors is a cost-effective measure that prevents these incidents, ultimately saving schools and parents from the financial burden of treating avoidable injuries.

Strand Hardware offers other product ranges that are ideal for incorporating into schools, including emergency exit and panic hardware for doors, and window controls for the safe opening of difficult to reach or high level windows which can be operated by a cranked pole.

This enables windows to be opened without staff having to stand on furniture to reach the openers.

Duoflex also provides the tools for a cost-effective, natural ventilation solution. Natural ventilation has numerous benefits in schools - positively impacting students and the wider learning environment. It improves indoor air quality by providing a continuous flow of fresh air, reducing the concentration of pollutants and ensuring a healthier atmosphere. Natural ventilation also promotes better concentration and cognitive function among students, helping regulate temperature and prevent stuffiness.

It can also contribute to energy efficiency and improve security, lowering operational costs for schools. By harnessing the power of natural airflow, schools can create comfortable, conducive learning spaces that support the overall wellbeing and academic performance of students.

By planning ahead for summer refurbs, those responsible for educational estate management can not only safeguard students from potential injury but also demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high safety standards – efforts worthy of an A+ achievement.

For more information contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call: 01922 639111