News & Events

Peace of Mind Guaranteed: Fire Rated Shutters and Compliance

20th May 2024

Importance of Fire Rated Shutters

As a business operating in a public-facing environment such as a village hall, bar, hotel, or club, it is pivotal to consider fire safety, particularly in areas such as the kitchen servery. One critical aspect of fire safety is the inclusion of fire rated shutters. These are not just ordinary shutters; they are rigorously tested and certified to withstand intense heat and flames for a specific duration, helping to prevent the spread of flames and smoke within buildings.

Fire Safety Regulations

Fire safety regulations require establishments to have preventative measures in place to minimise the risk of fire spreading. This includes the installation of fire containment systems such as fire rated window shutters, fire rated roller doors, and fire resistant roller shutters. These shutters are certified by Exova to Fire Standards BS476 and BS EN 1634 for durations of 1 hour, 2 hours, or 4 hours, depending on specific fire strategies. Compliance with these regulations is not just a legal requirement, it also plays a vital role in protecting lives and properties. For detailed information about these regulations, visit our page on fire rated shutters regulations.

Benefits of Fire Shutters

Beyond compliance, fire shutters offer a multitude of benefits. Their primary function is fire containment. By preventing the spread of fire, they provide crucial extra time for occupants to evacuate and for emergency services to arrive. This can significantly enhance life safety, a benefit that cannot be overstated.

Property protection is another key benefit. By containing fire, these shutters can limit property damage and potentially save a business from devastating losses. Furthermore, their installation may lead to potential insurance benefits, as insurers often offer lower premiums to businesses with robust fire prevention measures in place.

Lastly, fire shutters offer reliability in critical fire scenarios. They are designed to perform when it matters most, providing peace of mind for business owners. They can also double up as fire rated security shutters, adding an extra layer of security to your business premises.

Choosing the right fire shutters for your business involves considering various factors, including fire ratings, materials, installation, operation, and maintenance. For more guidance on this, Contact Us today. To understand the potential costs involved, check out our page on fire rated shutters cost.

Understanding the importance of fire rated shutters and their benefits can help you make informed decisions about fire safety. For more information, see our page on fire rated shutters benefits.

Types of Fire Protection Solutions

Proper fire protection is paramount in commercial spaces such as village halls, bars, hotels, and clubs. Among the varied fire protection solutions available, the focus here will be on fire curtains and fire shutters, especially industrial fire shutters.

Fire Curtains vs. Fire Shutters

Fire curtains and fire shutters serve the same essential function – preventing the spread of fire and smoke within a building. However, they differ in their specific applications and features.

Fire curtains are composed of Kevlar fabric and are designed to be up at all times, only descending in a fire situation. They are typically used in areas like reception counters, kitchen serveries, lifts, and open-plan residential spaces. Fire curtains can be activated by an independent heat detector or fire alarm, depending on site requirements. A key benefit of fire curtains is their compact design, making them an ideal option for buildings with limited headroom.

In contrast, fire-rated shutters, typically made from fireproof materials such as steel, are more commonly found in industrial settings. They are rigorously tested and certified to withstand intense heat and flames for a specific period of time. In the event of a fire, these shutters prevent the spread of flames and smoke, providing crucial protection. For detailed information about fire-rated shutters, check out our article on fire rated shutters benefits.

Industrial Fire Shutters

Industrial fire shutters provide both fire protection and security. They are certified by Exova to Fire Standards BS476 and BS EN 1634 for durations of 1 hour, 2 hours, or 4 hours, depending on specific fire strategies.

These shutters are designed for buildings that handle hazardous materials or house expensive equipment. In a fire scenario, they are operated electrically using a motor, which must automatically close, connected to a fire alarm, independent heat detector, or fusible link.

Maintenance of these shutters includes regular cleaning with mild detergent, periodic inspection for damage, and ensuring compliance with local fire codes and regulations by a qualified professional.

In choosing the right fire protection solution, consider factors such as the building's structure, fire safety requirements, and local regulations. For guidance on selecting fire-rated shutters, refer to our article on fire rated shutters regulations. Remember, achieving fire rated shutters compliance is not just a legal requirement but a guarantee of safety for your premises and its occupants.

Features of Industrial Fire Shutters

Industrial fire shutters are a crucial asset for establishments such as Village Halls, Bars, Hotels, and Clubs with kitchen serveries, offering added protection against fire hazards. These shutters are specifically designed for larger openings, are rigorously tested, and showcase high-level fire rated shutters compliance. Let's delve into the design specifications and operational aspects of these essential safety installations.

Design and Specifications

Industrial Fire Shutters are engineered for larger openings, accommodating widths up to 12 meters. They have been tested to halt the spread of fire for a period ranging from 1 to 4 hours, offering invaluable time for evacuation and firefighting efforts. The shutters are equipped with a Fusible Link that automatically closes the shutter at 67 degrees and a Solenoid Release that connects the shutter to the fire alarm system.

These shutters have been independently tested and certified by Exova to Fire Standards BS476 and BS EN 1634, proving their reliability and effectiveness in fire safety. The Industrial Fire Shutters come with Single Phase and 3 Phase Industrial Motors, a chain override for manual operation in the event of power failure, a Solenoid Release for automatic operation in the case of a fire alarm signal, and a Fusible Link.

The maximum width of these shutters is 12000mm (depending on height) and a maximum height of 6000mm (depending on width). For aesthetic consistency, they come with a standard finish of Galvanised box and guides.

Installation and Operation

Industrial fire shutters are electrically operated, ensuring easy and efficient use. They can be connected to a fire alarm for automatic descent in the event of an alarm signal, which is a critical feature for safety compliance. The shutters can be supplied with a basic switch for manually opening and closing the shutter when needed.

Industrial fire shutters provide robust protection, helping to safeguard assets and lives. When considering fire rated shutters cost, it's important to factor in their significant benefits and the peace of mind they offer in terms of fire safety and compliance. Remember, safety should never be compromised.

Compact Fire Shutter Overview

Compact Fire Shutters, known for their neat and compact design, are the ideal solution for smaller openings such as kitchen serveries and reception counters. These shutters are not only sleek in design but also robust in their functionality and adherence to safety regulations.

Design and Functionality

The Compact Fire Shutter is meticulously designed to accommodate smaller openings without compromising on the quality of protection. It features a neat and compact box, housing a single-phase tube motor located inside the barrel for smooth operation.

The shutter is supplied with a single skin 76mm (3'') curved steel slat, with a wall thickness varying from 0.7mm, 0.9mm, or 1.2mm depending on the fire rating and size of the opening. The compact design allows for widths up to 6m, providing ample coverage for most standard kitchen and reception areas. It also includes a manual override for emergency situations, ensuring safety even in unforeseen circumstances.

Control options for the Compact Fire Shutter are varied, catering to different requirements. These include a basic switch, automation connected to a Fire Alarm with Battery Backup, Audio Visual Panel, Staged Descent, Emergency Release Switches, and Manual Override. All these features contribute to the robust functionality of these shutters, making them a reliable choice in fire safety.

Certification and Compliance

In terms of compliance, the Compact Fire Shutter stands tall with its certification to fire standards BS EN 16034:2014 and is CE Marked to BS EN 13241-1:2003. It is available in fire ratings of 30mins, 60mins, 120mins, and 240mins, providing a range of options to suit different safety requirements.

Fire Rating Certification
30mins BS EN 16034:2014
60mins BS EN 16034:2014
120mins BS EN 16034:2014
240mins BS EN 16034:2014

In conclusion, the Compact Fire Shutter provides a comprehensive solution for fire safety in smaller areas. Its compact design, robust functionality, and strict adherence to safety standards make it a top choice for establishments seeking fire rated shutters compliance. For more information on different types of fire-rated shutters and their features, visit our pages on fire rated window shutters, fire rated roller doors, and fire resistant roller shutters.

Considerations for Fire Rated Shutters

When selecting fire-rated shutters for your premises, there are several key considerations that will ensure compliance and optimal performance. These include the fire rating of the shutters and the materials used in their construction, as well as their ongoing maintenance.

Choosing the Right Fire Rating

Fire-rated shutters are essential safety features designed to withstand intense heat and flames for a specific duration. They are rigorously tested and certified to fire standards BS476 and BS EN 1634 for durations of 1 hour, 2 hours, or 4 hours, depending on specific fire strategies. These shutters are not only key for fire safety, but they also offer other benefits like property protection, compliance with building codes, potential insurance benefits, and reliability in critical fire scenarios.

To comply with local building codes and regulations, we recommend consulting with a qualified professional. This expert can help determine the appropriate fire rating required for your specific scenario, considering factors like the type of building, its use, and the materials stored or handled within it.

Materials and Maintenance

Fire-rated roller shutters are typically made from fireproof materials such as steel and can be customised to suit the specific needs of each building. The choice of materials is crucial as it directly impacts the shutter's durability, performance, and maintenance and servicing requirements.

Maintenance of fire-rated shutters includes regular cleaning with mild detergents and periodic inspections for damage. Additionally, to ensure continued compliance with local fire codes and regulations, maintenance should be carried out by a qualified professional.

It's worth noting that fire-rated roller shutters are operated electrically using a motor, which must automatically close in a fire situation, connected to a fire alarm, independent heat detector, or fusible link. The ongoing operational checks of these systems form part of the shutter's maintenance routine.

By taking into account these considerations when choosing fire-rated shutters, you can ensure your premises are adequately protected and compliant. For further information on fire rated shutters, you can explore our resources on fire rated shutters compliance, fire rated shutters benefits, and fire rated shutters cost.

Compliance and Regulations

Navigating the terrain of safety regulations and compliance can seem daunting, but it's an essential step towards ensuring your establishment is secure and meets all necessary legal standards. This is especially true when it comes to installing fire rated shutters.

CE Marking Requirements

In light of new government legislation introduced on November 1st, 2019, it's required by law that all fire shutters must be CE marked. CE marking signifies that the product satisfies all EU health, safety, and environmental protection standards. Products tested to 2008 certification are now prohibited, signalling a firm commitment to the highest possible safety standards.

Fire-rated roller shutters, such as our fire rated window shutters or fire rated roller doors, have been independently tested and certified by Exova to the fire standards BS EN 16034:2014. They must be CE Marked to BS EN 13241-1:2003, certified for 30mins, 60mins, 120mins, and 240mins depending on the fire strategy.

These shutters not only provide a crucial layer of fire protection but can also be used daily as security shutters. Understanding the CE marking requirements is key to ensuring your establishment's fire protection measures are up to standard.

Maintenance and Inspections

Beyond installation, ongoing maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of your fire rated shutters. Maintenance includes regular cleaning with a mild detergent and periodic inspection for any signs of damage.

To comply with local building codes and regulations, we advise consulting with a qualified professional to determine the appropriate fire rating required for your fire-rated shutters. Additionally, ensuring compliance with local fire codes and regulations should be checked by a qualified professional.

Remember, a well-maintained fire shutter is not only a regulatory requirement but also a crucial aspect of your building's security system. Ensuring your shutters are well maintained and regularly inspected helps to keep your establishment, and those within it, safe. For more information on fire rated shutters, explore our range of fire resistant roller shutters and fire rated security shutters.

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