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What are Fire Roller Shutters?
Fire roller shutter doors are vertically operating fire resistant shutters designed to prevent the spread of fire through large openings within a building. They are commonly used where traditional hinged fire doors are not practical, particularly across wide spans or service openings.
Fire roller shutters are tested to recognised fire resistance standards (typically BS EN 1634-1 ) and are designed to provide defined fire protection periods such as 60, 120, or 240 minutes, depending on specification. When activated, either by a fire alarm signal, fusible link, or thermal device β the shutter automatically descends to close the opening and maintain compartmentation.
Fire Roller Shutter Door Information
Types of Fire Roller Shutter Doors
Types of Fire Roller Shutter Doors
Fire roller shutters are available in a couple of configurations depending on opening size, fire resistance period, operational method, and application. All compliant systems must be tested to recognised standards such as BS EN 1634-1 and installed as certified assemblies.
By Application Type
Compact Fire Roller Shutters
Designed for smaller openings and restricted headroom environments. Commonly used for:
- Commercial kitchen serveries
- Internal counters
- Small compartment openings
- Retail back-of-house areas
They feature a smaller barrel and compact housing for discreet installation.
Industrial Fire Roller Shutters
Engineered for larger spans and heavy duty environments. Typically installed in:
- Warehouses
- Factories
- Loading bays
- Large compartment walls
These systems use heavier curtain laths and larger barrel assemblies.
By Fire Resistance Rating
Fire roller shutters are available with different certified fire resistance periods, commonly:
- 60 minutes
- 120 minutes
- 240 minutes (where required)
- The required rating is determined by the buildingβs fire strategy.
Fire and Smoke Control Shutters
Fire Shutters are not designed or tested to stop the spread of the smoke. If you need smoke then you Fire and Smoke curtains are the solution.
By Operation Method
Automatic Gravity Fail Safe Systems
Operate using a controlled descent mechanism that activates upon fire alarm signal or thermal release.
Electrically Operated Fire Shutters
Powered systems integrated with fire alarm systems, designed to close automatically during activation while allowing daily operational use.
Internal vs External Fire Shutters
- Internal fire shutters β Used within compartment walls inside the building.
- External fire shutters β May require additional weather protection and compliance with external performance standards.
Each type must be specified according to the buildingβs fire strategy, structural opening size, and operational requirements to ensure full compliance with fire safety regulations.
Design & Customisation
Design & Customisation
Fire roller shutter doors can be tailored to suit the opening size, fire strategy, operational requirements, and building layout. All options must remain within the scope of the systemβs certified fire test evidence (typically BS EN 1634-1) to maintain compliance.
Fire Resistance Rating
Available in certified fire resistance periods such as:
- 60 minutes
- 120 minutes
- 240 minutes
The required rating is determined by the buildingβs fire strategy and compartmentation requirements.
Compact or Industrial Design
- Compact fire shutters for smaller openings and limited headroom.
- Industrial fire shutters for larger spans and heavy-duty applications.
Barrel size and guide assemblies are designed to suit the opening dimensions.
Operation Type
- Gravity fail-safe systems (automatic controlled descent upon alarm activation)
- Electrically operated systems for daily use with automatic fire activation
- Integration with fire alarm systems
Control panels and battery backup systems can also be specified.
Control and Activation Options
- Connection to the buildingβs fire alarm system
- Thermal fusible links (where appropriate)
- Audio visual warning devices before descent
- Programmable delay timers for safe evacuation
Guide and Headbox Configuration
- Face-fixed or reveal-fixed installation
- Galvanised steel finish
- Powder-coated finishes (where available)
- Optional fascia covers for aesthetic integration
Finish and Appearance
While most fire shutters are supplied in galvanised steel, some systems offer powder-coated finishes to match interior or exterior design schemes.
Bespoke Sizing
Fire roller shutters are manufactured to measure, allowing them to suit:
- Serveries and counters
- Service ducts
- Large industrial openings
- Loading bay compartment walls
Daily Use or Fire Only Systems
Fire Shutter can be used on regular daily for security and fire protection.
All design and customisation choices must align with the manufacturerβs certified configuration to ensure continued compliance with fire safety regulations and the buildingβs fire strategy.
Applications
Applications
Fire roller shutter doors are specified where large openings must be compartmentalised in the event of a fire. They are particularly suited to areas where traditional hinged or sliding fire doors are impractical due to size, access requirements, or operational needs.
Warehouses and Industrial Units
Commonly installed across:
- Large compartment walls
- Production areas
- Storage zones
- Loading bays
They allow wide access during normal operation while providing automatic fire separation when activated.
Commercial Buildings
Used within:
- Service corridors
- Back of house areas
- Distribution zones
- Internal warehouse to office interfaces
They help maintain fire compartmentation across open plan layouts.
Commercial Kitchens
Compact fire roller shutters are frequently installed across:
- Kitchen serveries
- Food counters
- Pass-through openings
They prevent the spread of fire from kitchen areas into dining or retail spaces.
Retail and Shopping Centres
Installed in:
- Stockroom openings
- Internal service areas
- Mall to store service corridors
They protect escape routes and support the buildingβs fire strategy.
Healthcare and Public Buildings
Used in:
- Service openings
- Plant room access
- Internal compartment walls
They maintain fire separation while allowing unobstructed access during normal operation.
Plant Rooms and Service Areas
Large plant enclosures and mechanical service areas often require fire shutters where ventilation, ductwork, or wide access is present.
Loading Bays and Logistics Facilities
Industrial fire shutters protect:
- Loading dock openings
- Vehicle access points
- Goods transfer areas
They compartmentalise high risk zones while maintaining operational efficiency.
Fire roller shutter doors are selected wherever wide or high traffic openings must remain functional during daily use but automatically close to provide certified fire resistance in accordance with the buildingβs fire strategy and regulatory requirements.
Features & Benefits
Features & Benefits
Fire roller shutters are designed to provide certified fire compartmentation across larger openings while allowing unrestricted access during normal building operation. They are a key component of a buildingβs passive fire protection strategy.
Certified Fire Resistance
Tested to recognised standards such as BS EN 1634-1, fire roller shutters provide defined fire resistance periods (commonly 60, 120, or 240 minutes). This helps maintain compartmentation and limit fire spread between zones.
Automatic Fire Activation
Most systems operate on a gravity fail safe mechanism, automatically descending when triggered by:
- Fire alarm activation
- Thermal release devices
- Loss of power (depending on system design)
This ensures reliable closure in emergency situations.
Protection for Large Openings
Fire roller shutters are ideal for wide or high openings where hinged fire doors are not practical. They allow open-plan layouts without compromising fire safety.
Daily Operational Flexibility
Certain systems can be specified for daily use, combining routine access functionality with automatic fire closure when required.
Compact and Industrial Options
Available as:
- Compact fire shutters for smaller openings and limited headroom
- Industrial fire shutters for larger spans and heavy-duty environments
his ensures suitability across a wide range of applications.
Integration with Fire Alarm Systems
Fire roller shutters can integrate directly with the buildingβs fire alarm system, allowing controlled descent and optional audio visual warning prior to closure.
Durable Steel Construction
Manufactured from galvanised steel, these shutters are designed for strength, longevity, and reliability in commercial and industrial environments.
Supports Regulatory Compliance
When correctly specified and installed, fire roller shutter doors support compliance with Building Regulations and the buildingβs approved fire strategy.
Fire roller shutter doors provide a practical solution for maintaining operational efficiency in large or high-traffic openings while delivering certified fire protection when it matters most.
Compliance & Safety
Compliance & Safety
Fire roller shutter doors are life safety products and must comply with fire testing standards, product regulations, and Building Regulations. Because they form part of a buildingβs passive fire protection system, correct specification and installation are critical.
Fire Resistance Testing β BS EN 1634-1
Fire roller shutters must be tested to BS EN 1634-1, which assesses fire resistance performance of door and shutter assemblies. Certification confirms:
- Integrity (E) β Resistance to flame penetration
- Insulation (EI) β Limitation of heat transfer (where specified)
- Declared fire resistance periods (e.g. 60, 120, 240 minutes)
The complete system β curtain, guides, barrel, control panel, and activation method must match the tested configuration.
Building Regulations β Approved Document B
Fire roller shutters must align with Approved Document B (Fire Safety) and the buildingβs fire strategy, including:
- Correct fire resistance period
- Installation within designated compartment walls
- Protection of escape routes and high risk areas
The required rating is determined by the fire risk assessment.
Automatic Operation and Fail Safe Design
Fire roller shutters must:
- Close automatically upon fire alarm activation or thermal trigger
- Incorporate a fail safe descent mechanism
- Include controlled descent systems to prevent sudden drop
Systems designed for daily use must comply with operational safety standards.
Electrical and Control System Compliance
Electrically operated fire shutters must comply with relevant electrical safety standards and be integrated correctly with the buildingβs fire alarm system. Control panels and battery backups must be installed in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
Machinery Directive / UKCA & CE Marking
As powered doors or shutters, systems may fall under:
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations
- CE and/or UKCA marking requirements
Installations must include risk assessment and appropriate safety devices.
Safety Devices for Daily Use Shutters
Where shutters are used for regular operation, additional safety measures may include:
- Obstacle detection systems
- Audio visual warning prior to closure
- Photo Cells
These measures reduce risk during automatic descent.
Installation to Certified Detail
Installation must follow the manufacturerβs tested and certified detail, including:
- Approved fixing methods
- Correct guide alignment
- Appropriate structural support
- Unauthorised modifications can invalidate fire certification.
Ongoing Inspection and Maintenance
Fire roller shutters must be included in routine fire safety inspections to ensure:
- Reliable automatic activation
- Correct descent speed
- No damage to curtain or guides
- Proper operation of control systems
Regular servicing is essential to maintain compliance and ensure reliable performance in an emergency.
When correctly specified, installed, and maintained in accordance with BS EN 1634-1 and relevant product regulations, fire roller shutter doors provide compliant compartmentation and reliable automatic fire protection for large openings.
Installation & Maintenance
Installation & Maintenance
Fire roller shutters must be installed and maintained strictly in accordance with their certified fire test evidence and manufacturerβs instructions. Because they form part of a buildingβs passive fire protection system, incorrect installation can invalidate certification.
Installation Requirements
Install to Certified Configuration
Fire roller shutters must be installed exactly as tested to BS EN 1634-1, including:
- Curtain type (rigid steel laths or flexible fabric system)
- Guide rails
- Barrel assembly
- Control panel
- Activation method
- Fixing detail and structural support
Any deviation from the tested configuration may invalidate the fire rating.
Structural Support and Fixings
The supporting structure must be capable of carrying:
- Curtain weight
- Barrel load
- Operational forces
- Fixings must follow manufacturer specifications, including anchor type and spacing.
Control Panel and Activation Integration
Fire roller shutters must be connected to:
- The buildingβs fire alarm system
- Thermal release devices (where applicable)
Installation must ensure:
- Automatic fail safe descent
- Controlled closing speed
- Correct commissioning and testing
Electrical Compliance
Electrically operated shutters must comply with relevant electrical safety standards and include:
- Battery backup (where specified)
- Safe wiring routes
- Commissioning certificates
- Rigid Structure Fire Shutters
Rigid fire shutters use steel interlocking laths and are typically installed in industrial or larger openings.
Installation Considerations:
- Heavier barrel assemblies require adequate structural support
- Larger guide rails must be precisely aligned
- Headroom and side room must accommodate the barrel size
Maintenance Requirements:
- Regular inspection of laths for damage
- Check guide alignment and wear
- Test automatic descent mechanism
- Inspect motor and control panel operation
- Confirm descent speed remains compliant
Rigid systems are durable but require periodic servicing, particularly in higher-use environments.
Flexible Structure Fire Curtains / Shutters
Flexible systems use fire-resistant fabric with side guides and are commonly used for compact or architectural applications.
Installation Considerations:
- Precise alignment of side guides is critical
- Fabric must remain tensioned and free from obstruction
- Headbox must be securely mounted
Maintenance Requirements:
- Inspect fabric for tears, damage, or contamination
- Check guide integrity and fixings
- Test automatic deployment
- Confirm bottom bar weight and descent control
- Flexible systems are generally lighter but still require routine inspection and functional testing.
Commissioning and Handover
Upon installation:
- The system must be fully commissioned
- Descent test completed
- Integration with fire alarm confirmed
- User instruction provided
- Certification documentation issued
Ongoing Maintenance and Compliance
Fire roller shutters must be:
- Included in the buildingβs fire risk assessment
- Inspected at regular intervals (typically annually at minimum)
- Function tested to confirm automatic operation
- Serviced by competent personnel
- High risk or high traffic environments may require more frequent servicing.
Supply Only Considerations
Supply only fire roller shutters may be provided for competent installers; however:
- Installation must follow certified detail
- Integration with fire alarm systems must be correctly commissioned
- Compliance responsibility rests with the installer and building operator
- Professional installation is strongly recommended for commercial and public buildings.
When correctly installed and regularly maintained, both rigid and flexible fire roller shutter systems provide reliable, compliant fire compartmentation while supporting the buildingβs overall life safety strategy.
Price Guide
Price Guide
The cost of fire roller shutter doors depends on fire resistance period, opening size, structural type, control system specification, and installation complexity. Because these systems must be tested to BS EN 1634-1 and installed in accordance with certified detail, pricing reflects both product and commissioning requirements.
Compact Fire Roller Shutters (Smaller Openings)
Typically used for kitchen serveries, counters, and internal compartment openings.
- Supply only: From Β£1,800 β Β£3,000
- Supplied and installed: From Β£3,000 β Β£5,000
Suitable for smaller spans with compact barrel assemblies.
Industrial Fire Roller Shutters (Larger Openings)
Designed for warehouses, factories, and loading bays.
- Supply only: From Β£3,500 β Β£6,000
- Supplied and installed: From Β£6,000 β Β£10,000+
Pricing increases significantly with width, height, and fire resistance rating.
Fire Resistance Rating Impact
Higher fire ratings (e.g. 120 or 240 minutes) will increase pricing due to heavier curtain materials and enhanced system components.
Control and Safety System Costs
Additional costs may apply for:
- Advanced control panels
- Battery backup systems
- Audio-visual warning systems
- Fire alarm integration
- Daily-use motorised operation
These can add Β£500 β Β£2,000+ depending on specification.
What Affects Final Pricing
- Opening width and height
- Fire resistance period (60, 120, 240 minutes)
- Rigid vs flexible system
- Headroom and structural requirements
- Electrical integration and commissioning
- Site access and installation complexity
Getting an Accurate Quote
Because fire roller shutters must integrate with the buildingβs fire alarm system and comply with certified installation detail, a site survey is strongly recommended. Accurate measurements and review of the fire strategy ensure the correct fire rating, structural support, and control system are specified for full regulatory compliance.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Fire Roller Shutters
1. What are fire roller shutters used for?
1. What are fire roller shutters used for?
Fire roller shutters are used to contain fire within specific areas of a building, helping to maintain compartmentation, protect escape routes, and reduce the spread of fire.
2. How do fire roller shutters operate in an emergency?
2. How do fire roller shutters operate in an emergency?
In the event of a fire, fire roller shutters are designed to close automatically, usually via a gravity fail safe system or activation from a fire alarm, ensuring reliable operation even during a power failure.
3. How long can fire roller shutters provide fire protection?
3. How long can fire roller shutters provide fire protection?
Fire roller shutters are available with different fire resistance ratings, typically ranging from 60 minutes up to 240 minutes, depending on the system specification and certification.
4. Where are fire roller shutters commonly installed?
4. Where are fire roller shutters commonly installed?
They are commonly installed in warehouses, retail premises, kitchens, server rooms, loading bays, plant rooms, and compartment walls where fire separation is required.
5. Do fire roller shutters require regular maintenance?
5. Do fire roller shutters require regular maintenance?
Yes. Regular inspection, testing, and maintenance are essential to ensure fire roller shutters operate correctly and remain compliant with UK fire safety regulations.

