A local rugby club in Newcastle-under-Lyme has upgraded the security of its premises with the installation of a high-performance steel fire exit door from Robust UK.
Newcastle (Staffs) Rugby Union Football Club noticed its emergency exit door, located in the changing rooms corridor, was beginning to show signs of age, wear and tear. With the security of the building and its members a top priority, Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC needed a replacement door that offered high security, enhanced safety without compromising aesthetics.
Site survey for fire-exit upgrade
The rugby club appointed Robust to supply the door due to its technical expertise, quality of products and ability to provide support during the specification process. Following an in-depth site survey to assess the condition of the existing frame and surrounding environment, the team at Robust recommended OUTA-DOR, its durable steel fire-exit door, chosen for its strength, versatility and proven performance in demanding environments. Manufactured from Magnelis® steel, OUTA-DOR is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion, a key advantage for busy sports venues exposed to heavy use.
Faster installation with adjustable door frames
The installation process made use of Robust adjustable steel frames. These frames allow the installer to make fine adjustments during fitting, avoiding the challenges that often occur with traditional timber frames. For the rugby club, this meant less disruption to day-to-day operations and a smoother overall installation experience.
To further support safe and efficient emergency evacuation, the new fire-exit door was fitted with Briton two-point panic bolt hardware. This represents a significant upgrade from the single-point panic latch previously in place. The two-point system secures the door at both the top and bottom, increasing stability, enhancing security against unauthorised entry and offering more reliable performance in the event of an emergency. The hardware fully complies with BS EN 1125 and ensures that the door meets modern standards for emergency escape systems.
OUTA-DOR can be fire-rated for up to 240 minutes and when specified as a THERM option, it delivers low U-values of just 1.5 W/m²K, surpassing the 1.6 W/m²K requirement set out in Part L of the Building Regulations.
Steel fire exit door vs timber?
Compared with a traditional timber door, steel doors offer significantly improved security and the ability to withstand knocks, dents and wear far more effectively.
The OUTA-DOR solution provides a reduced need for ongoing upkeep. Timber doors require regular repainting, treatment and refinishing, especially in busy environments where they are exposed to moisture, weathering and physical impact. As it’s made from Magnelis® steel, this steel door solution requires minimal maintenance and does not compromise on appearance.
The chosen design features a timeless tongue-and-groove wood-panel effect that blends perfectly with existing surroundings, offering the style of wood panels while still delivering superior performance.
Kevin Bourne, chair of sponsorship and team captain at Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC, says: “On behalf of the club, I’d like to thank Robust UK for assisting us in finding a suitable replacement fire exit door. Their expertise has been invaluable in ensuring we selected the right specification to enhance safety and security at the club.”
The adjustable frame, upgraded panic hardware and precision installation have all contributed to a safer and more efficient emergency exit route. These improvements will help protect players, staff and visitors, while the enhanced external security ensures the premises remain secure outside of operating hours.
