When it comes to specifying external steel doorsets – it’s vital to understand the differences in regulatory requirements, performance standards, and certification obligations. At EBD Steel Doors, we’re committed to helping you navigate these technical considerations, ensuring every external doorset we supply meets the highest standards of compliance, security, and performance.
Conformity Marking: CE, UKCA & UKNI
One of the most common questions specifiers face is: Does this doorset need a conformity mark? The answer depends on whether the doorset is for external or internal use.
External steel doorsets must be conformity marked under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). This includes any fire-rated or emergency exit doors that form part of a building envelope or are exposed to outdoor conditions. CE, UKCA, or UKNI marking confirms the product has been tested to a harmonised standard – offering consistent, verified performance.
Internal doorsets or door assemblies that are not marketed as complete units do not currently require CE or UKCA marking. Although performance standards still apply, the conformity mark is only mandatory when the product is classified and sold as an external doorset.
At EBD, we ensure every external doorset carries the appropriate conformity mark, backed by a Declaration of Performance – offering full traceability and peace of mind.
Third-Party Certification: More Than a Mark
Where fire or life safety is involved, conformity marking alone is not enough. If your external doorset is:
Fire-rated (EN 16034)
Fitted with panic or emergency exit hardware (EN 1125 / EN 179)
…then third-party certification by a notified or approved body is mandatory.
This ensures the doorset’s ability to perform reliably in emergency situations – a vital safeguard for building users. At EBD, we work with independent test bodies to ensure our fire and escape doors meet the highest levels of accredited performance.
Door Security: Beyond the Cylinder
When specifying external steel doorsets, security compliance is another critical factor. Compliance with TS 007 is an essential benchmark for locking systems.
To meet the 3-star requirement set by TS 007, you can specify either:
A 3-star rated cylinder, or
A 1-star cylinder combined with 2-star security hardware (such as reinforced handles or cylinder guards)
A 1-star cylinder on its own will not provide sufficient protection. At EBD Steel Doors, every external door solution is equipped with a TS 007-compliant locking system – helping to safeguard buildings against modern intrusion techniques like snapping, drilling, and picking.
Built-In Security: Integrated Dog Bolts
It’s not just locks that matter. One of the most overlooked – but highly targeted – areas in forced entry is the hinge edge
That’s why every external door we manufacture is supplied with hinges featuring integrated dog bolts as standard. These bolts engage into the frame when the door is closed, reinforcing the hinge edge and making it significantly harder to force open.
This feature provides mechanical strength beyond the lock, creating a complete, built-in security solution from day one.
In Summary
Before you specifying external steel doorsets, ask yourself:
Is this doorset for internal or external use?
Does it require conformity marking and a Declaration of Performance?
Is third-party certification required for fire or escape use?
Does the locking system meet TS 007 compliance?
Are additional mechanical security features, such as dog bolts, included?
At EBD Steel Doors, we help you answer these questions with confidence – delivering doorsets that not only meet but exceed the expectations of modern building performance.
Need help specifying your next external doorset?
Get in touch with our technical team for expert advice and fully certified steel solutions.
