Whenever we are thinking about roller shutter doors, the ‘security’ and ‘strength’ always come to mind first. Roller Shutter Doors are tough, reliable, and perfect for keeping your business safe from break-ins. But here is a question many UK business owners ask us all the time: can a roller shutter door be a fire exit?
Well, a shutter is a door, so why can’t it be a fire exit? However, when we think about fire safety, things get a bit more complicated. Moreover, a fire exists not just about having a way out. They are about having a fast, safe, and reliable escape route when every second counts. And not every roller shutter is built to do that.
That’s where we step in. At Roller Shutter Installers, we have seen the confusion, the myths, and the mistakes. Let’s clear it up and answer this once and for all.
Fire Exits: More Than Just a Door
A fire exit is not just about a way out. It’s a lifeline. However, it has one main purpose: to let people escape quickly and safely during an emergency.
And for a door to be classed as a fire exit, it needs to be:
- Easy to open.
- Accessible without keys or codes.
- Quick to operate, even in a panic.
That’s where traditional doors often shine. But roller shutters? They bring in a different set of features.
Standard Roller Shutters and Fire Exits Don’t Mix
Let’s get this clear. A standard manual roller shutter is not designed to be a fire exit. Why? Because it takes time to lift. And in an emergency, seconds matter.
Imagine smoke filling a shop floor. Staff are rushing to get out. Nobody wants to fumble with a chain or crank to open a shutter. That’s a safety risk. And that’s why standard roller shutters cannot legally be considered fire exits.
Fire-Rated Roller Shutters: A Different Story
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Not all shutters are the same. Fire-rated roller shutters are built to perform under extreme heat. They help contain fire. They can block flames and smoke for 1, 2, or even 4 hours, depending on the design.
But here’s the twist: fire-rated shutters are usually designed to stay closed during a fire, not to serve as an exit. Their job is to contain the fire, not provide an escape route.
So if you’re thinking about using one as a fire escape, the answer is still no.
The Right Solution: Emergency Roller Shutters
Now, before you lose hope, there’s good news. Technology has advanced. There are shutters designed with emergency exit features.
These are equipped with:
- Push bars or panic latches.
- Fail-safe motors that automatically open during a power cut.
- Battery backups to make sure the shutter lifts when you need it most.
That means yes, with the right design, a roller shutter can double up as a fire exit. But only if it’s specified, installed, and maintained for that purpose.
Why Businesses Ask for Fire Exit Roller Shutters
We have seen a huge demand for this across the UK. Why? Because space is tight. Not every shopfront or warehouse has room for separate doors and shutters. Combining security with safety is a practical choice. Think about it:
- Your shopfront stays secure after hours.
- Your staff has a fast, reliable escape route during an emergency.
- You stay compliant with safety regulations.
Don’t Cut Corners: Safety Is the Priority
Here’s a reality check. Not every shutter you find online can do the job. Some companies will try to sell you “cheap” solutions. But when safety is at stake, you can’t cut corners. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a professional team always. After all, if you choose the wrong shutter, it can fail any time or at the most inconvenient moment. So, always choose a qualified team that understands the rules and designs shutters with fire exits in mind.
How We Can Help
At Roller Shutter Installers, we don’t just fit shutters, but we solve problems as well. We listen to your needs, like security, safety, and compliance. After that, we provide the right system for your property. However, our services include:
Our services include:
- Fire-rated shutters.
- Emergency escape roller shutters.
- Customised designs for shops, offices, and industrial sites.
- Regular maintenance to keep everything working.
However, at Roller Shutter Installers, our team knows very well that every site is different. Due to this, we offer free advice and site surveys to help you find the perfect balance between safety and security.
Key Takeaway
So, can a roller shutter door be a fire exit?
- A standard one: No.
- A fire-rated one: Not really, they are for containment.
- A purpose-built emergency exit shutter: Yes.
Overall, with the right design and expert installation, you can have a roller shutter to keep your properties safe. In addition to this, it provides a fast exit during a fire.
Final Word
All in all, when it comes to fire exits, compliance and safety come first. And everyone, whether your staff, customers, or business, deserves them. So, if you are not sure whether your current shutters meet fire exit standards, let’s talk. Our team at Roller Shutter Installers is here to guide you. We will help you stay safe, stay legal, and stay secure. Contact us!