Who Can Install Fire Rated Steel Doors, Fire Curtains, and Fire Rated Roller Shutters?

When it comes to fire safety, the quality of your products is only half the story. The other half is who installs them. Fire rated steel doors, fire curtains, and fire rated roller shutters are designed to save lives and protect property—but only if they are fitted correctly. Poor installation can compromise fire resistance, invalidate certifications, and leave you legally exposed.

So, who is actually allowed—and qualified—to install these specialist fire protection systems? Let’s break it down.

Why Professional Installation Matters

Fire rated products are rigorously tested to meet strict British and European fire safety standards such as BS 476, BS EN 1634, and BS EN 16034. These standards ensure the product can withstand fire for a specified period (e.g., 30, 60, 120 minutes).

However, correct installation is just as important as the product itself:

• Gaps, poor sealing, or wrong fixings can allow fire and smoke to spread.
• Incorrect wiring of roller shutters or curtains may stop them from closing in an emergency.
• Using unqualified installers can invalidate the manufacturer’s certification.

In short: the right installer ensures the fire protection system works as intended when it matters most.

Who Can Install Fire Rated Steel Doors?

Fire rated steel doors must be installed by qualified professionals trained in passive fire protection. Typically, this means:

• Manufacturer-approved installers – Many steel door manufacturers run approved installer schemes to guarantee correct fitting.
• FIRAS-accredited installers – FIRAS (Fire Industry Association Registration Scheme) is a UK certification scheme for companies installing fire protection products.
• Third-party certified contractors – Certifications like BM TRADA Q-Mark demonstrate compliance with fire safety installation standards.
   

For businesses, using a certified installer is also critical for insurance purposes and compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Who Can Install Fire Curtains?

Fire curtains are more complex than standard fire doors because they involve mechanical, electrical, and fire protection expertise.

Installers should be:

• Specialist fire curtain contractors trained by the manufacturer.
• Competent electricians (for wiring into fire alarm and building management systems).
• Accredited by third-party schemes such as FIRAS or IFC Certification for active fire protection.
   

Because fire curtains often integrate with alarm systems, installers must also comply with BS 8524-1 and BS 8524-2, the UK standards governing fire curtain performance and installation.

Who Can Install Fire Rated Roller Shutters?

Fire rated roller shutters combine structural fire resistance with mechanical operation, so installation requires both shutter expertise and fire safety knowledge.

Approved installers should:

• Be trained by the shutter manufacturer on fitting and testing.
• Hold fire protection installation accreditations such as FIRAS or DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) certifications.
• Ensure compliance with BS EN 16034 for fire-resisting doors and shutters.
• Be able to integrate shutters with fire alarms and emergency power systems.
   

Many insurers and building control officers require evidence of competence and certification before approving roller shutter installations.

Can You Install Fire Rated Products Yourself?
 

The short answer: No.

Fire rated doors, curtains, and shutters are not DIY products. Attempting self-installation (or hiring general builders without fire training) can:

• Compromise fire resistance.
• Breach building regulations.
• Invalidate product certification.
• Leave you liable if a fire spreads due to improper installation.
   

Always use a qualified and certified installer—it’s a legal, safety, and insurance requirement.

How to Choose the Right Installer

When selecting an installer, look for:

• Third-party certification (FIRAS, BM TRADA, IFC).
• Manufacturer approval (are they trained by the product supplier?).
• Experience in fire door, curtain, or shutter installation.
• Proof of compliance with British Standards.
• Maintenance services – Fire protection products require regular inspections.
   

Conclusion

Fire rated steel doors, fire curtains, and fire rated roller shutters are only as effective as their installation. By using certified professionals, you not only meet legal obligations but also protect lives, property, and business continuity.

At Security Direct, we supply high-quality, certified fire protection products and work with approved installers to ensure every system performs as designed.

Looking to protect your building with fire rated doors, curtains, or shutters?   Browse our Fire Rated Products  Contact our team for expert advice and approved installation services.

FAQs on Installing Fire Rated Products

1. Do fire rated doors need to be installed by a specialist?

Yes. Only qualified and certified installers can ensure compliance with fire safety standards.

2. Can electricians install fire curtains?

They can assist with wiring, but full installation must be carried out by fire curtain specialists.

3. How do I know if my installer is qualified?

Check for third-party certifications such as FIRAS, BM TRADA, or IFC.

4. What happens if fire shutters are installed incorrectly?

They may fail to close in a fire, allowing flames and smoke to spread. This can also invalidate insurance.

5. Do installers provide certificates after fitting?

Yes. Certified installers provide completion certificates for compliance and insurance records.