USER-DRIVEN INNOVATION AND DESIGN
We seek to involve key stakeholders in our product development. There are many influencers in our value chain regardless of whether they are trades people, distributors or end users. We are pleased to include them in the process and are open to their suggestions, comments and feedback. We believe the best solution results from maintaining a close dialogue with our stakeholders in order to incorporate their input into the new product development process.
Testing new ideas
At DOLLE, we value our colleagues' creative ideas and input and we therefore never write off a good idea before we have tested its marketability. Employing the principles of "Rapid Prototyping" to any new ideas on the drawing board also ensures that thought is quickly converted into action on the product development side. Rapid Prototyping is simply about ensuring that we produce workable models capable of illustrating the principles of the new ideas within a very short timeframe. The models are produced in whatever materials are available at the time, be that cardboard, wood, pipe cleaners and so on, so that we do not waste a substantial amount of time sourcing specific materials. At this point we are still at the ideas stage of the process, if the models compel us to pursue the idea further, we create 3D drawings and prototypes in order to test its form and function and take account of all relevant aspects before embarking on the actual production phase.
On-going quality tests
Before launching our products to the market, we always test them thoroughly to ensure they meet legal requirements, industry standards and guidelines as well as our own quality demands. Our products are subjected to many different types of tests, such as airtightness testing on loft ladders, strength testing on all types of stairs, repetition testing on closing mechanisms and hinges as well as tensile testing and strength testing on our handrail banister systems for indoors and outdoors.
At DOLLE we pride ourselves in providing functional, contemporary and aesthetic quality products which as a minimum meet current industry standards and codes of practice. We maintain a constant focus on developing new products and models and test all products thoroughly before delivering them to the end user.
TESTING OF DOLLE LOFT LADDER
Before launching a new loft ladder, we thoroughly test it to ensure that all our loft ladders meet legal requirements, industry standards, guidelines, and our own high-quality demands. Our loft ladders undergo various types of tests, including strength testing, insulation capacity (U-value), and airtightness.
EN 14975 – Strength of loft ladders
We test the loft ladders strength, repetition testing on closing mechanisms and hinges as well as tensile testing according to EN 14975. Our loft ladders are approved up to 150 kg, but we test up to 265 kg.
Loft ladders with low u-values complies to EN 12 567:1 2001-02
Our loft ladders have the market leading U-values and are tested as a building component just like doors and windows. The lower u-value, the lower heat loss and with DOLLE you can get the certificate on our tested U-values.
Airtightness of loft ladders complies to EN 12207
The unique sealing system in DOLLE's loft ladders is important as it protects against draft and heat loss. We have developed a sealing system that ensures the gap between the trapdoor and the frame is tight preventing draft and heat loss. Our loft ladders have been tested at Danish Technological Institute or IFT Rosenheim according to the highest airtight class 4 - EN 12207 standard.
Fire-resistant loft ladders complies to EN 13501-2
We also have a series of fire-resistant loft ladders - REI 45 have been tested according to the new European standard. REI stands for: R (resistance) carrying capacity during fire. E (integrity) ability to keep flames and gases out. I (insulation) ability to keep warmth out. The 45 minutes indicates for how long the loft ladder can withstand a fire. Hence the name DOLLE REI 45.
ISO 9001
At DOLLE, we maintain a constant focus on safety and quality and we therefore place great demands not just on our own production, but also on the production of our suppliers. Our own production plants are subject to extensive quality management measures, in addition to which we have established effective quality processes and systems to ensure that our suppliers also meet our required standards. We therefore test all incoming deliveries in accordance with the European standards for spot checking, ISO 2859.
All raw materials and components are carefully selected to ensure they are in good order in terms of strength, function, safety and quality. Our products are always produced in line with applicable legislation, standards and codes of practice and are certified by all relevant authorities.
DOLLE A/S is ISO 9001 certified which assures clients that we meet the quality requirements specified by the ISO 9001 standard. In practical terms it means that an independent certification body controls and verifies that all of our production procedures are clearly documented and adhered to at all times.
Danish quality
Danish design and craftmanship are combined with traditional materials. DOLLE loft ladders are manufactured in Denmark under ISO certified systems, our timber is sourced primary from renewable FSC certified forests for almost all loft ladders. We are constantly expanding our product range and are working on technical improvements and innovations: For example, DOLLE pioneered thermal insulation and developed windproof installation solutions for loft ladders. DOLLE since 1951.