Historic doors and ironmongery at imminent risk
Abstract
This paper highlights the loss of historic fabric — specifically, examining the unintended consequences of fire safety regulations. The nuances of conservation, such as preserving the original craftsmanship while meeting modern safety standards, offer rich ground for discussion. Highlighting how ill-considered decisions might lead to the unjustified removal of irreplaceable historic features underlines the urgency of the matter. The scope of this paper focuses on historic doors and door furniture and the cost in terms of time, trouble and effect on historic fabric in attempting to meet existing and proposed guidance. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https:// hstalks.com/business/.
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Author's Biography
Steve Emery CMIFireE is an Independent Fire Consultant with Heritage Fire Consultancy Limited, formed in 2022. Clients include the Palace of Westminster, National Trust, National Trust Scotland, Landmark Trust and Norwich Castle. Steve has over 50 years’ experience in firefighting, salvage and fire safety. He was the University of Oxford fire officer from 2016–22 and National Fire Adviser for English Heritage and Historic England from 2001–16. Prior to this he had a 30-year career with Avon Fire and Rescue Service, his final post being seconded to English Heritage after 12 years as the fire officer for the City of Bath. Steve chairs the Institution of Fire Engineers Special Interest Group for Heritage Buildings, and has undertaken research and fire testing, leading to the writing of fire safety guidance documents for churches, historic town centres, thatched buildings and a guide to upgrading of historic timber panel doors.
Citation
Emery, Steve (2025, December 1). Historic doors and ironmongery at imminent risk. In the Journal of Building Survey, Appraisal & Valuation, Volume 14, Issue 3. https://doi.org/10.69554/LDIA2101.
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