When choosing doors and windows for safety and security, PAS 24 and Secured by Design (SBD) are two widely recognized standards in the UK. While both standards prioritize security, they differ in scope and evaluation methods.
PAS 24 (Publicly Available Specification 24):
A security standard that specifies the performance requirements for doors and windows. It ensures they can resist forced entry attempts using various tools and techniques. PAS24 concentrates solely on the performance of doors and windows, providing assurance of their strength and durability against break-ins.
SBD (Secured by Design):
A police-backed initiative that promotes security through design and product selection. SBD covers broader aspects of property security, including layout, lighting, and certified products. SBD takes a holistic approach to crime prevention, considering not only product security but also building design, neighborhood planning, and landscaping.
PAS24 Applies to products
SBD Applies to whole project
Testing and Certification
PAS 24 products must undergo rigorous physical tests to prove their resistance to forced entry. Certification is awarded only to individual products that meet the standard.
SBD prioritizes security-rated products, including PAS 24-certified doors and windows, as part of a comprehensive security system. While SBD doesn’t directly test products, it relies on certifications like PAS 24 to verify the security of components. To ensure consistent quality, SBD conducts annual factory audits.
PAS24 certification is based on tests on the products
SBD certification is based on meeting the required standard
Do I need PAS24 or SBD?
All new builds in the UK must meet security standards set by Part Q of the Building Regulations. This means that windows and doors in easily accessible locations must comply with PAS 24 standard.
SBD is voluntary but widely adopted by developers and housing associations to meet higher security standards and gain police approval.
“Not every PAS24 product is SBD” - ”Every SBD product is PAS24”
Summary
PAS 24 is a specific security standard for testing the robustness of doors and windows, while Secured by Design is a broader initiative emphasizing overall property security. By integrating PAS 24-certified products into SBD-compliant designs, you can significantly enhance the security of homes and buildings.
