In the automatic door industry, ensuring safety, compliance, and quality is paramount. Two key trade associations, the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) and the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA), play important roles in upholding professional standards. But what exactly do they do, and how do they differ? Let’s explore their distinct areas of focus and why working with accredited professionals matters.
What Is the DHF?
The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) represents manufacturers and installers of doorsets, industrial doors, gates, barriers, garage doors, locks and building hardware, and fire & escape doors in the UK. It does not cover automatic pedestrian doors. While the DHF does not focus on automatic pedestrian systems, it is instrumental in setting high standards for other entrance solutions. Why do we need DHF membership ?
Key Contributions of DHF:
- Publishes technical specifications and guidance for installers.
- Provides training and certification schemes.
- Promotes legislative compliance and best practice.
What Is the ADSA?
The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) is the only specialist trade association focused exclusively on automatic pedestrian doors. It was founded to ensure these systems are installed and maintained to the highest safety and accessibility standards, especially in line with BS EN 16005 – the European standard for automatic pedestrian doors.
Key Contributions of ADSA:
- Offers BS EN 16005 training and accreditation.
- Advocates for safe installation and usage of automatic doors.
- Provides a network of certified suppliers and installers.
DHF vs. ADSA: What’s the Difference?
While both organisations work toward safer, more reliable door systems, they differ in their scope and specialisation:
| Feature | DHF | ADSA |
| Focus | Broad (doors, gates, shutters) | Specialised (automatic doors) |
| Standards | Technical standards & compliance across sectors | BS EN 16005 for automatic pedestrian doors |
| Training | Covers a wider range of products and regulations | Specialised training for automatic door professionals |
| Membership | Includes various hardware and entrance system providers | Dedicated to automatic door suppliers and installers |
Why Membership Matters in the Automatic Door Industry
Choosing a company affiliated with DHF or ADSA offers several advantages:
- Regulatory Compliance: Members are trained in current safety standards.
- Enhanced Safety: Adherence to best practices reduces accident risks.
- Professionalism: Membership signals a commitment to quality and integrity.
At Evolution Entrance Systems, we uphold the values championed by both DHF and ADSA, ensuring every automatic door installation or repair meets rigorous safety and operational standards.
The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) is a specialised trade body dedicated to promoting safety, compliance, and professionalism within the automatic door industry. Unlike broader organisations like DHF, which cover various entrance systems such as doors, gates, and shutters, ADSA focuses exclusively on automatic pedestrian doors. It champions adherence to BS EN 16005, the key standard for automatic doors in the UK.
Conclusion
Understanding the roles of DHF and ADSA clarifies why working with a certified provider makes a real difference. While ADSA governs automatic pedestrian doors, DHF oversees hardware, fire doors, industrial doors, and gates. Selecting the right association member for your needs ensures professionalism, safety, and peace of mind.
Contact Evolution Entrance Systems today to discuss your automatic door needs and experience the difference that certified expertise makes.
