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BM TRADA launches new fire door certification scheme set to smooth transition to EN classification

London, UK, June 3, 2026 – BM TRADA has launched a new certification scheme designed to support manufacturers of timber doorsets and/or assemblies with the transition to EN classification.

The Q-Mark Fire Door Processing Scheme has been launched ahead of the withdrawal of the national classification system (BS 476) from Approved Document B (“ADB”) in September 2029. This change will reshape how fire-resisting and smoke control door assemblies and doorsets are evidenced and classified for demonstrating compliance with the building regulations in England.

With EN classification becoming the primary performance classification in ADB, manufacturers need to be able to demonstrate fire resistance and smoke control performance, alongside how construction products such as doors have been processed, evidenced, and traced through the supply chain.

Developed as part of BM TRADA’s existing EN 13501-2 Q-Mark framework, the scheme allows fabricators to work alongside established Q-Mark certified systems houses and doorset manufacturers.

Victoria Brennan, General Manager for Certification and Technical at Element Materials Technology (“Element”), said:

“While the deadline seems far away, manufacturers should act now to avoid a capacity crunch later and ensure that their products can meet third-party assurance and maintain market access.”

“With a greater regulatory focus on traceability and oversight of products, working to get aligned with the EN classification standards as soon as possible becomes a market differentiator for manufacturers. This information enables the supply chain to make safe and competent decision-making.

“Our new scheme provides a clear and independently certified route to market for processed fire door elements, including door leaves, frames, and part assemblies within doorsets.”

The Q-Mark scheme will provide additional assurance for customers. Under the new scheme, certified elements will incorporate QR-code traceability and unique identification markings. This in turn will enable clearer records of product information, supporting evidence, and transparency throughout the supply chain.

Investment in testing capability

The launch of the new service is the latest example of Element’s continued investment in fire testing infrastructure. This includes the world-class £30 million Birchwood Park fire testing facility which opened in January 2025 and was developed to support increasing demand for fire and smoke testing, the facility includes a unique one-rig solution which combines both tests.

BM TRADA works with over two-thirds of the leading systems houses in the UK and supports manufacturers across the wider fire door sector, backed by an in-house team of expert product assessors specialising in fire resistance, smoke control and certification pathways.

Further information on the Q-Mark Fire Door Processing Scheme is available via the BM TRADA website.