Accoya timber sliding sash window sets security benchmark with PAS 24:2022 certification

Accsys is pleased to announce the successful development of the first sliding sash window featuring slimline glazing bars and a 44mm thick sash, designed to meet the requirements of PAS 24:2022.

This achievement was made possible through collaboration with a consortium of stakeholders, including Midland Joinery Services Ltd, ERA and SD Hardware.

Rigorous testing standard

PAS 24:2022 is a rigorous testing standard designed to evaluate the enhanced security performance of windows and doors, ensuring their ability to withstand specified levels of attack. The test simulates an attempted break-in by a burglar using easily concealable tools. A window or door undergoes several assessments, including mechanical load, manual attack and impact testing – each aimed at identifying potential vulnerabilities. Testing was conducted at the independent UKAS-accredited test house at ERA’s facility in Wolverhampton.

According to police statistics, 30% of all opportunistic offenders in domestic burglaries gain entry through a window.* The Accoya sliding sash window’s innovative design includes a ¾in radius end sash pulley, Timber Series sash lift, Timber Series high-security classic cam lock and sash window screw locks.

Cheryl Varley, ERA Account Manager, said: “It’s wonderful to see all stakeholders working together to achieve this important accolade. The independent UKAS test house within the ERA facility is a valuable resource for customers. Our test engineers rigorously assess windows to provide consumers with peace of mind.”

Mike Lewis, Technical Sales Manager for Accoya UK and Ireland, commented: “We’re thrilled that the Accoya sliding sash window, which replicates a traditional and historical design, has successfully passed this rigorous security test. Thanks to Midland Joinery, SD Hardware and ERA, homeowners can now equip their homes with some of the most secure timber windows available on the market.”

Tim Heeley of Midland Joinery stated: “We’re passionate about delivering top-quality joinery and ensuring our customers are completely satisfied. It’s been a privilege to contribute to the development and testing of our Accoya range of heritage sliding sash windows, which are now PAS 24 accredited. This recognition gives our customers confidence that their windows meet the highest safety standards.”

Gary Ewings, Founder and Managing Director of SD Hardware, added: “We’re dedicated to supplying hardware that meets the joinery industry’s highest standards. Bringing this project together with Accoya, ERA and Midland Joinery, to achieve PAS 24:2022 in a sliding sash window, is a breakthrough that allows every joinery business to comply with Part Q. This is something the industry has needed for some time – the first sash window to pass using Accoya is fantastic news for the entire joinery sector.”

This year, SD Hardware is celebrating 10 years of dedication to the timber window and door industry; to find out more, see www.sdhardware.co.uk.

*Overview of Burglary and Other Household Theft – Office for National Statistics