The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is announcing the retirement of one of its Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Nick Perkins, recognising his long-standing contribution to the Federation’s work and to the continued professionalisation of the Automated gate and door industry.
In 2010, Nick joined the sector at a time when the understanding of safety legislation and standards was uneven and, in some areas, limited. Since 2000, DHF records indicate around 30 deaths and serious injuries associated with non-compliant systems, leading to more than 20 criminal prosecutions. The tragic incidents that occurred in 2010 involving automated sliding gates brought into sharp focus the urgent need for clearer guidance, improved competence and consistent training across the industry. In response, DHF strengthened its focus on safety, compliance and education, establishing a dedicated automated gate group and developing structured guidance and training for members and the wider sector.
Nick was closely involved in this work from an early stage. As part of the committee formed to support the development of DHF’s first automated gate training courses, he contributed a growing technical understanding that helped shape training that was both thorough and accessible. Following the successful launch of the initial courses, Nick accepted a permanent role with DHF, beginning a long association with the Federation’s technical and training activity.
Since that time, DHF’s training provision has grown significantly. More than 6,500 learners have now completed DHF training across a comprehensive programme covering automated gates and traffic barriers, shutters, industrial and garage doors, fire shutters and dock levellers, delivered through a range of formats including distance learning. Working in collaboration with partners, the Federation has also expanded into fire door inspection, timber and steel doorset installation repair & maintenance and security &emergency exit doorsets training, as well as the provision of CSCS cards for the door, gate, shutter and loading bay equipment sectors. Alongside this, discussions are underway with a national college network to develop a new apprenticeship scheme for the industry, while relevant NVQs are being delivered through DHF’s sister organisation, Entrance Systems Alliance (ESA).
Training has been just one aspect of DHF’s work during Nick’s tenure. The Federation’s technical team now responds to around 6,000 technical enquiries each year, delivers seminars to members, undertakes on-site system assessments and provides expert witness support to investigating authorities. This breadth of activity reflects DHF’s wider role in supporting compliance, raising standards and promoting best practice across the industry. The impact of this collective effort is clear. Where once compliance with key safety standards such as EN 12453 was limited, awareness and implementation are now far more widespread.
“Today, the industry today is far better informed, more professional and more accountable, with safety firmly embedded alongside commercial growth,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “While this progress is the result of many contributors, it is clear that Nick has played a considerable part in supporting DHF’s mission to drive improvement and reduce risk across the sector.
“As he retires, DHF thanks him for his tireless commitment and service over many years. The Federation will now look to grow its technical team further, building on the strong foundations already in place and continuing to lead the industry on safety, competence and compliance.”
December 2025
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