The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) is launching a new development in its education programme: a new Foundation Module in Hardware.
Due to begin later this year, the new module is a one-stop introduction to door hardware that will help raise knowledge and standards among many trades in the building industry.
The GAI Foundation Module is aimed at those who do not require an in-depth understanding of door hardware, or may wish to take a step towards the full GAI three-year education programme. It is suitable for builders’ merchants, locksmiths, office support staff at architectural ironmongers or anyone who wants to gain a firm basic knowledge about door hardware.
The course comprises 12 sections with ’test yourself’ questions at the end of each. It is intended to provide an insight into the many aspects of architectural hardware, including hinges, closers, locks and furniture. There are also sections dealing with fire doors, escape hardware and a brief insight into the legislation surrounding all of these products. It is taken entirely online and includes an end of module exam. Success in this exam provides a Certificate of Competence in ‘A Foundation in Hardware’.
Candidates can take as much or as little time as they wish to complete the course and take the exam, and can fit studying around their work.
“The course has been designed for those who don’t live and breathe ironmongery as their day-to-day job,” said GAI education manager, Keith Maer. “It will give successful candidates a basic but firm understanding of products that can hang, close, lock and then furnish a door, as well as information of fire and escape doors.”
The GAI Foundation Module is part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to improving, progressing and upholding the highest possible standards of knowledge, practice and competence in door hardware.
