A ban on the sale of composite fire doors has been lifted after talks between the Government and industry representatives resulted in agreement over a new set of compliance standards.

The ban was originally imposed after it emerged that fire doors widely used across the housing sector and at Grenfell Tower had failed safety tests, by resisting flames for just half of the 30 minute minimum standard set out in building regulations.

Tests on the fire doors revealed that many of the products on sale differed from the approved specification of the doors used in official safety tests. The new tests had been ordered after news emerged that fire doors installed in Grenfell Tower suffered a range of failures. These problems were compounded by broken or defective closures and door furniture that further compromised fire retardant qualities.

Andrew Fowlds, chair of the Association of Composite Door Manufacturers, said: “The cost to the composite door industry during this period has been very heavy, with a number of casualties in terms of jobs and revenue. However, as long as all manufacturers of such products have completed bilateral testing in strict accordance with the building regulations, and provided the necessary written confirmation to their supplier, then supply may resume.”

The ACDM will become the governing body for the composite door industry, leading on the development, implementation and policing of standards while also promoting the use of composite doors. It will compile a database of all fire door products tested by members and provide technical advice.

A Government spokesman said: “We are pleased the industry has taken steps to ensure their products meet the required standards to be sold on the UK. Fire doors must meet the safety requirements as set out in building regulation advice and we are continuing to work with the industry and local authorities to make sure this is the case.”