Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) - Experts & Thought Leaders

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has published a new Best Practice Guide, A Beginner's Guide to PSTI for members of DHF, to help them understand and comply with the requirements of the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act 2022 and associated regulations. Developed in response to growing concerns around cyber security and the increasing use of connected technologies within the door, gate, hardware and access control sectors, the guide was produced at the request of DHF's Cyber Security Committee Chair, Dave Herbert. Remote monitoring systems The publication has been designed to provide members with a concise introduction to the PSTI Regulations. It explains which products may fall within scope, clarifies the responsibilities of manufacturers, importers and distributors, and offers straightforward guidance on achieving compliance. The guide also encourages businesses to adopt best practice beyond the minimum legal requirements while helping them avoid potentially significant enforcement action and financial penalties. “As more products become connected to the internet, cyber security is no longer solely an IT issue,” explains DHF’s Deputy CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “It is increasingly a product compliance and business risk issue. Indeed, many businesses may be unaware that products incorporating connected technology are now subject to specific legal requirements under the PSTI Regulations. This is particularly relevant to the door and hardware sector, where technologies such as automated doors and gates, smart locks, access control systems, connected cameras, remote monitoring systems and connectivity hubs are becoming increasingly common. Many of these products may fall within the scope of the legislation.” Internet-connected devices The PSTI Regulations came into force on 29th April 2024 and apply to relevant consumer connectable products placed on the market in the UK. The regulations establish a minimum cyber security baseline for connected products, helping to address the growing threat posed by cyber criminals targeting internet-connected devices. Importantly, responsibility for compliance does not rest solely with manufacturers. Importers and distributors also have legal obligations and must undertake appropriate due diligence to ensure products placed on the market meet the required standards. Businesses throughout the supply chain should therefore review their products, determine whether they fall within scope and ensure that appropriate compliance procedures are in place. The guide highlights that compliance should not be viewed simply as a regulatory burden. Demonstrating strong cyber security practices can improve customer confidence, strengthen business reputation and help organizations prepare for future regulatory developments. Mandatory PSTI requirements Among the most important actions identified within the guide are the removal of default or easily guessable passwords, the establishment of a clear vulnerability reporting process, and the communication of how long security updates will be provided for connected products. These measures form the foundation of the mandatory PSTI requirements. The publication also encourages businesses to review their role within the supply chain, use ETSI EN 303 645 as a benchmark for compliance, prepare robust Statements of Compliance, establish effective vulnerability reporting processes, and consider Secure Connected Device accreditation where appropriate. Members are also reminded that PSTI compliance information must accompany the product and should not simply be published on a website. Vulnerability reporting mechanism The guide notes that financial penalties for non-compliance can reach £10 million or 4% of global turnover, whichever is greater. It also highlights previous research showing that only 27% of manufacturers had a basic vulnerability reporting mechanism in place, underlining the need for greater awareness and action across industry. “We are encouraging all members to download and review the guide and assess whether their products and business processes meet the requirements of the PSTI Regulations,” concludes Patricia.

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced a number of new appointments as the trade association continues to strengthen its team and support for members across the industry. As part of the changes, Kay Scattergood, becomes PA to General Manager & Secretary, Michael Skelding. Following many years of dedicated service, Kay Scattergood has chosen to reduce her working hours and workload, transitioning into a new role within the organization and remains a highly valued member of the DHF team. Overseen daily operations Kay has been with DHF for more than 38 years, progressing from Senior Secretary to Manager of the Administration Team and will continue to bring her extensive knowledge and experience to support the organization. Joining the organization in April 2026 is Annie McKay as Office Manager, a newly created role for DHF. Annie is responsible for overseeing all office operations and the day-to-day running of the organization’s administrative functions, including IT, HR, and the management of DHF’s externally recognized certifications such as ISO 9001 and Cyber Essentials. She brings seven years of office management experience across a variety of sectors, where she has overseen daily operations and supported large teams. Annie now manages the administration team at DHF and helps ensure the smooth running of the organization. Industry group meetings DHF has also welcomed Huw Barnett as Senior Training and Compliance Officer. Huw brings more than 26 years of experience in the door, gate and barrier industry, and his career has included both hands-on operational roles and senior management positions, giving him experience across installation, maintenance, team leadership and operational delivery. Throughout his career, Huw has represented employers at a range of industry group meetings, contributing to discussions around safety standards, best practice and new technologies. In his new role, Huw will provide technical expertise to DHF members and deliver training across the sector. Commitment to supporting members “We are delighted to welcome new team members, Annie and Huw to DHF at an important time for the organization,” says DHF’s Deputy CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “Both bring considerable experience, professionalism and energy to their roles, and their appointments reflect our continued commitment to supporting members and strengthening the services we provide industry wide.” DHF has also announced the appointment of two new directors to its board. Wolfgang Gorner, Managing Director of Hörmann (UK) Ltd, joins the board with decades of experience across the building products, perimeter security, windows and doors sectors. Perimeter security products Wolfgang began his career with RMC Group in 1988 before moving into perimeter security products with B&G Group in 1995. In 2000, he moved into the windows and doors industry, holding senior positions at REHAU, Epwin and Inwido before joining Hörmann in 2018 to lead its UK operation. Speaking about his appointment, Wolfgang said he is “Passionate about the door, gate and barrier industries and believes DHF plays an important role in promoting high standards and supporting a level playing field across the sector.” Also joining the board is Ricky Walker, Managing Director of Expert Access Solutions. Ricky has long supported DHF and been an active voice within the industrial doors sector throughout his career, including during his time as Solutions Director at dormakaba. Understanding legislative requirements He has contributed to a range of DHF activities including product group meetings, apprenticeship discussions and technical committee work focused on helping customers understand legislative requirements and industry standards. Ricky also brings significant board level and commercial governance experience and is committed to supporting the continued growth and professionalism of the federation. “All of these appointments represent another positive step forward for DHF,” concludes Patricia. “Annie, Huw, Wolfgang and Ricky each bring valuable experience and knowledge, and we are pleased to welcome them to the DHF family as we continue to support our members and the wider industry.”

As 2025 draws to a close, the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is reflecting on a hugely productive year. Indeed, it has been defined by achievement and collaboration, and by a tireless commitment to the people and industries it serves.  From achieving ISO 9001 certification, to publishing the long-awaited Competence Framework and launching a pioneering new qualification, the Federation has continued to strengthen its foundations while looking confidently to the future. Excitement and possibility “2025 began with a sense of excitement and possibility,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “In February, DHF hosted its first Members’ Conference at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, where more than 200 members and industry professionals gathered for a highly enjoyable day of insight, discussion and connection.” Invaluable guidance on employment law The event brought together a program of workshops and speakers, including Dafydd Williams from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, who shared the government’s response to Grenfell, and Gillian McAteer from Citation, who offered invaluable guidance on employment law.  A moving moment came from Flight Lieutenant, John Nichol, whose keynote address about his experience as a British prisoner of war during the Gulf War was both humbling and inspiring.  Alongside the talks, an exhibition hall filled with leading names from across the sector created opportunities for collaboration and the sharing of knowledge that will carry forward into the year ahead. DHF’s enduring mission In April, the launch of the ABBE Level 3 Award in Compliance and Safety of Fire-Resisting Roller Shutter Doors marked a major milestone.  Developed by DHF to strengthen competence within this highly specialized area, the qualification has already seen remarkable uptake from companies determined to uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance. It reflects DHF’s enduring mission to support professional growth and align industry practice with a focus on building safety and competence. CLC Competence Framework for Doors “Another defining achievement came with the completion of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Competence Framework for Doors, Gates and Shutters. Developed in close partnership with the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) and guided by the Sector Lead Group 10,” explains Patricia. “The project represented eighteen months of careful collaboration and consultation. Led by DHF and ADSA, and supported by our Senior Training and Compliance Officer, Steve Hill, the framework establishes clear, practical standards for competence across installation, maintenance and servicing."  "For DHF members, this work has real impact. More and more organizations, for example, Amazon and Heathrow Airport, are now requiring evidence of individual competence for both installation and maintenance. The framework and accompanying National Occupational Standards help ensure DHF members can demonstrate the professional skill and assurance expected of them.” DHF’s growing role The summer brought one of the Federation’s proudest moments. DHF achieved ISO 9001 certification, confirming its position as an organization that leads by example. This recognition of quality management and continuous improvement reinforces DHF’s reputation for professionalism and integrity in all that it does.  In September, a further milestone followed with authorization to provide Blue Skilled Worker cards for the Dock Leveller industry. This step has brought well-deserved recognition for individuals working in this specialist area and underlines DHF’s growing role in supporting competence and training across every corner of its sector. Innovation and excellence within the fencing community “Throughout 2025, DHF has remained close to its members and partners,” says Patricia. “We have attended key national events including The Security Event, The FIT Show, Fencex, and the MLA Expo, meeting members face-to-face, sharing updates and listening to feedback. DHF also continued its proud sponsorship of the Automated Gate category at the AFI Awards, celebrating innovation and excellence within the fencing community."  "Member engagement has remained central to our purpose, with a series of members’ open days around the UK. One particularly meaningful initiative saw Steve Hill spend several weeks in Ireland, offering training and support to members across the Republic. His visit received outstanding feedback and further strengthened DHF’s ties with the Irish market.” National Insurance contributions While the year brought challenges, including increased National Insurance contributions and a slowdown in construction, the outlook among DHF members has remained encouraging. Many report steady order books and continued demand within commercial and industrial markets, a reminder of the sector’s resilience and its ability to adapt and thrive even when conditions are uncertain. “No reflection on the year would be complete, of course, without recognizing the people who make DHF what it is,” says Patricia. “As the year draws to a close, DHF prepares to say farewell to Nick Perkins, whose knowledge and expertise have left a lasting mark on the industry. Nick’s retirement will be felt by colleagues and members alike, and he departs with the Federation’s gratitude and warmest wishes”.   Organization’s commercial insight and engagement Earlier in the year, the Federation wished a fond farewell to Helen Skelding, whose calm professionalism and loyal service earned her the respect and affection of all who worked with her. The team was joined by Eddie Payne as Finance Manager, bringing fresh perspective and experience to support DHF’s continuing growth. Later in the year, Jason Smith moved on after many valued contributions, and the Federation welcomed Jonathan Colen as its first Commercial Manager, strengthening the organization’s commercial insight and engagement. Within the Membership Department, Olivia Juxon began maternity leave in November, and we were delighted to welcome Charlotte Winsper to the team to ensure members continue to receive excellent support. DHF’s educational portfolio    “As we move into 2026, DHF stands ready for the next chapter,” concludes Patricia. “With ISO 9001 certification achieved, the Competence Framework completed, the Level 3 Award launched, and authorization secured to issue Blue Skilled Worker cards for the Dock Leveller industry, DHF has laid strong foundations for the future." "The coming year will see the introduction of a new Ofqual-regulated training program for the building hardware industry, extending DHF’s educational portfolio and offering a clear route to recognized qualifications. Above all, DHF remains committed to raising standards, supporting members, and strengthening the sector it proudly represents.”