ASSA ABLOY bestows top security on first BREEAM 'excellent' primary school in the UK

ASSA ABLOY was the first choice for specifying a security system for the recently-opened £5.9 million St Luke’s CE primary school – the first of its kind in the UK to be awarded a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ for the outstanding sustainable design and environmental performance of its all-timber construction.

In addition to supplying a plethora of door furniture and ironmongery for use throughout the primary school and nursery, ASSA ABLOY supplied one of its popular FLEXCORE master key locking systems incorporating patent protection to bolster security and to prevent the illegal duplication of keys.

Vital to aid security amongst the increasing number of visitors to the new landmark site, that also boasts shared community facilities, the new system provides keyholders with convenience of movement, but only within areas they need to enter. To complement a new access control system, ASSA ABLOY also supplied electric strike plates to provide controlled access and egress to the main entrance area including the nursery.

External doors play a pivotal role in any primary school security system. Not only do they work to keep young children in school, they also work to keep intruders out. To ensure that all escape doors re-lock automatically and are secure from the outside, all external doors at the new building feature either ASSA ABLOY’s high security 1800 series panic bolts and single panic latches or two points of locking - a top lock for overnight security and a bottom lock for emergency use.                              

In addition, a door hold-back facility for use at playtime is also included either on panic equipment or escape locks. Every external door also incorporates door closers, and finger protection.

Meanwhile, all internal classroom doors were fitted with ASSA ABLOY’s classroom escape lock, Evolution 624, to protect against forced entry and to provide quick and convenient exit, if required. The company also supplied finger protection guards with door closing devices for all doors in order to prevent young children seriously hurting themselves.

Commenting on behalf of ASSA ABLOY, Tom Jones, Specification Development Manager, said: “We are delighted to be associated with this ground-breaking project. The specification typifies ASSA ABLOY’s capabilities and attention to detail in delivering an integrated design solution specifically for schools and colleges. 

ASSA ABLOY provides complete door and locking solutions to the specification sector. The company specialises in developing one-stop-shop solutions designed to provide the ultimate in physical security, safety and convenience, drawing on the wider resources of the ASSA ABLOY group when required. All solutions are designed to withstand the rigours of demanding environments and achieve the highest legislative accreditations.