Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 11 THE door industry journal winter 2024 Industry News COVID and Brexit: 2020 – 2022 With the Brexit referendum in January 2020 and the UK’s initial COVID lockdown in March 2020 heralded an extraordinary year of change. The pandemic saw the industry pivot – devising technology-driven solutions to manage safe distancing and limit the spread of disease, from traffic-light entrances to limit retail footfall to anti-bacterial coatings and sanitiser applications. ADSA provided advice and support through these troubled times, adapting its own working arrangements with livestream remote training and guiding the industry on changes to trading outside the European Union. As 2020 drew to a close, the Entrance Systems Alliance (ESA) was formed in partnership with the Door Hardware Federation (dhf) in order to deliver NVQ training and boost quality standards across the industry. Around this time, ADSA commissioned the services of Tillymint Communications, a marketing and PR company, which further helped raise ADSA’s profile within the wider architectural and construction industry, boosted membership through advertising campaigns, media relations, and created new membership communication channels including the Opening Doors newsletter (2019) and Tech Talk podcast (2024). Moving On: 2022 – 2024 ADSA continued to add value to membership with the introduction of Quartet in 2022. Quartet is an online support hub for four essential services: HR, legal, health and safety, and tax. It offers access to templates, documents, and advice sheets, plus a helpline for direct contact. It was launched to support sole traders and smaller businesses without dedicated in-house teams. This year also marked ADSA’s initial sponsorship of the biennial AI Spec Awards (Product Design and Innovation— Electronic Award) and entry into the IfATE Employer Directory. In 2023, ADSA launched its new website with the finding a Member directory, became a member of the Trade Association Forum and launched guidance on security-rated PPD. The launch of BS EN 17352:2022, which regulates power-operated pedestrian entrance control equipment such as powered turnstiles, swing lanes, and retractable lanes, also saw the launch of a new training course. ADSA also became part of a Joint Competency Initiative (JCI) steering group for the door sector to increase levels of competence in response to the Building Safety Act. 2024 saw revisions to EN 16005, which included changes to risk assessments and test methods for PPD, and UK designation of EN 17352. It was a year for celebration – ADSA securing not one but two ISO accreditations - 9001 45001– a significant achievement that underscores its commitment to excellence in both quality management and occupational. Membership also continued to soar – topping 500 members. A Bright Future for ADSA As ADSA prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, commitment, and continuous improvement. From inception to its current status as a global leader in automatic door standards and safety, ADSA’s journey is one of remarkable achievements – an association dedicated to developing qualifications, promoting safety standards, and leading industry advancements which has left an indelible mark on the automatic door sector. Looking to the future, ADSA MD Ken Price reflects on the association’s accomplishments: “Our journey over the past four decades has been defined by a commitment to safety, innovation, and the continuous development of standards within our industry. Milestones such as the introduction of BS7036 and EN16005, our growing membership base, and our influence in regulatory discussions demonstrate the strength and resilience of our association. As we celebrate this anniversary, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for what lies ahead. ADSA remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve, promoting the work of our industry, and ensuring that automatic doors are safer, smarter, and more inclusive than ever before.” As it moves forward, ADSA remains committed to fostering innovation, supporting professional development, and ensuring safety, accessibility, and inclusivity is always at the heart of its mission. With an ever-growing membership and a legacy of success, it is well-positioned to continue leading the industry for decades to come. This article not only celebrates the 40 years of ADSA but also acknowledges the individuals and organisations that have contributed to its legacy. It highlights the importance of standards, safety, and continuous development, ensuring that the automatic door industry remains a vital part of the built environment. It will be celebrating this anniversary throughout the coming year with special events and activities for all those working within the industry. Details will be published on its website: www.adsa.org.uk . For more information on ADSA membership, contact: info@adsa.org.uk or telephone: 01827 216136.
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