GAI launches new qualifications in access control, door systems, and standards

The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) is introducing three new qualifications in the biggest-ever expansion of its education programme. 

The GAI education programme is the only programme in the world that leads to professional qualifications in architectural ironmongery to British and European standards. It progresses from the introductory Foundation in Hardware course to the Certificate in Architectural Hardware (CiAH), and ultimately to the GAI Diploma in Scheduling (DipGAI) – recognised worldwide as the ‘must have’ qualification for professionals involved in architectural ironmongery scheduling, estimating and support. 

From 1 September 2022, three new GAI qualifications will be available, reflecting changing requirements in the architectural ironmongery and associated sectors. 

Two of the new qualifications are Stage 3 diplomas, providing alternative or additional options to the existing GAI Diploma. 

A new Diploma in Door Systems will educate on both residential and commercial type doorsets, including modules on acoustics, fire resistance, security, rebound doors, temperature control, and specialist hygiene/clean room/medical applications. 

A Diploma in Electric Hardware and Access Control will cover in detail door entry systems, hotel locking systems and smart technology, breaking down into the technical details of each component required and the software. 

The third new qualification is a Stage 3 Certificate in Standards and Regulations. This will educate on all aspects of the standards relevant to the architectural ironmongery industry and, unlike the diplomas, will be annually renewable and subject to an ongoing process of continuing professional development.  

Rachel Tipton, GAI Training and Development Manager (pictured above), says: “The access control and door systems markets are both evolving and expanding rapidly.

“The new diplomas are designed to meet the needs of a growing number of companies looking to educate their people in these specialist areas, but in a way which is fully integrated with architectural ironmongery.  

“The certificate is a new type of qualification which has been launched as a specific response to the post-Grenfell environment.

“With the Building Safety Act having brought competency and standards to the top of the agenda, every company in the construction sector now needs to have employees with the technical expertise and understanding to know what can and should be specified, why, and the consequences of getting it wrong.”

The GAI education programme has been developed over more than 50 years, and through its courses, qualifications and continuing professional development, the Guild has established an internationally recognised benchmark for ironmongery expertise and knowledge.   

All three new qualifications are suitable for those working in sales or technical roles, project and contract management.  

As Stage 3 qualifications, candidates must have completed the GAI Stage 1 & 2 Certificate in Architectural Hardware (CiAH) before entering. Bridging courses will be available for those who have already completed their CiAH.  

Full details of the new qualifications will be included in the GAI Education Prospectus 2022/23, available from July at www.gai.org.uk/learning 

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