Element launches Q-Mark certification for timber, metal and composite doorsets

Element launches new Q-Mark schemes for EN 13501-2 transition

Element Materials Technology (Element) has launched three new Q-Mark certification schemes and updated an existing one to support the shift to the EN 13501-2 European fire classification system.

The company said the changes follow the UK Government’s announcement on 2 September 2024 that National Classes fire testing standards will be withdrawn from Approved Document B (England) on 2 September 2029.

By that date, products such as fire-resistant doorsets will be expected to achieve classification to EN 13501-2 for fire resistance and, where applicable, smoke control.

The new Q-Mark schemes, which launched on 7 October 2025, cover timber, metal and composite doorsets and provide manufacturers and systems houses with a route to compliance under the EN framework.

Element said the introduction of these schemes now allows manufacturers to continue producing doorsets meeting current requirements while preparing for the updated classification system.

The company added that early adoption could help certified companies gain a competitive advantage ahead of the 2029 transition.

Q-Mark offers pathway for ongoing compliance

According to Element, Q-Mark certification is designed to confirm that products meet high standards through continuous assessment.

The certification process involves Factory Production Control audits and periodic audit testing, providing evidence of long-term commitment to quality and performance.

These processes are supported by the technical expertise of BM TRADA and Warringtonfire, both accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).

Victoria Brennan, General Manager for Certification and Technical at Element, said: “Organisations don’t just need to meet standards once – they need to show that they’re committed to maintaining them. This is where the Q-Mark excels.

“It also allows us to respond more quickly to evolving regulations.

“At Element, our priority is to lead the industry through this transition. We’re doing this by maintaining our trusted certification schemes, offering expert technical guidance, and working closely with stakeholders to interpret and respond to evolving regulations.”

Regulatory change set for 2029 implementation

The move from British Standard (BS) to European Norm (EN) testing represents one of the largest changes to building product regulation in recent years.

Brennan explained that while the future of BS 476 outside England remains uncertain, Element expects current schemes to remain valid unless future regulatory changes are announced.

She continued: “We’re committed to evolving our services in response to these changes – both in England and internationally – so our clients can continue bringing their products to their chosen markets with confidence.”

Element said that although the new requirements do not come into effect until 2029, it is encouraging early adoption to avoid manufacturing and supply chain disruption.

To support the transition, the company will host an open webinar on 23 October 2025, led by Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager.

The session will explain how EN classification can be integrated within third-party certification schemes to confirm product performance for doorsets.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This development is most relevant for manufacturers, certification bodies, fire engineers and compliance managers involved in the specification and testing of fire-resistant doorsets.

The new Q-Mark certification schemes create an early framework for aligning with the EN 13501-2 classification system before it becomes mandatory in 2029.

For fire-protection contractors and systems integrators, this provides clarity on forthcoming compliance pathways, helping ensure that installations remain valid beyond the regulatory change.

Certification professionals and auditors will also benefit from the enhanced Factory Production Control and audit testing requirements embedded in the Q-Mark framework.

The upcoming Element webinar in October 2025 offers additional guidance for those responsible for navigating the regulatory transition across construction and manufacturing sectors.