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The EN 50133 option will initially run in parallel with the existing NSI NACP 30 and ICP 30 Codes of Practice whilst experience is gained in the application of EN 50133. It is anticipated that NACP 30 and ICP 30 will be considered for withdrawal in 12 months time.

NSI technical manager Tony Weeks said: "The introduction of EN 50133 for access control is a welcome step forward. Customers should derive greater confidence from knowing that they can receive access control systems to the latest standards from NSI-approved companies.

"The period of parallel running with NACP 30 and ICP 30 is intended to give NSI-approved companies the time to source and test the necessary components, to train their staff in the new requirements and implement changes to their management systems required to ensure compliance."

• Growth in the UK access control market over the next five years is expected to be spurred by commercial and non-residential construction and increased residential sector demand. A renewed focus on security following recent terrorist attacks is also cited as a factor in growth.

These are the findings of 'The UK Access Control Market Development Report' by industry analysts MBD. The report says that the UK market for access control has increased in nominal terms each year since 2001. The current value of the market is £590m.

MBD expects online systems to continue to gain market share over the next five years. In 2010, the sector is expected to account for 47 per cent of total access control equipment sales, compared with 46 per cent in the current year. In value terms sales of online equipment are projected to increase by 15 per cent in real terms between 2005 and 2010. "This sector is expected to continue to benefit from technological developments and the trend towards integrating security systems," MBD said.

"The value of audio/video entry equipment sales and rental income is also expected to increase in each year of the five year forecast period, broadly in line with the overall market development. Demand is anticipated to increase by 12 per cent in real terms between 2005 and 2010. This sector is expected to benefit from an increase in the construction of flats and apartments."