Roller shutter doors are a vital component for many commercial and industrial premises, offering security, insulation, and convenience. However, they also fall under stringent legal and safety requirements in the UK. At Nova Industrial, we prioritise not just the quality of our installations but also full compliance with all relevant legislation. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the legal requirements for roller shutter doors.
Compliance with the Machinery Directive
Under UK law, all powered roller shutter doors are considered machinery and must comply with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations. These regulations ensure that the doors are safe to operate, and they must be CE or UKCA marked to demonstrate compliance. Key points include:
Safety mechanisms: All doors must have appropriate safety devices, such as anti-fall devices and sensors to prevent injury if someone or something obstructs the door’s path.
User instructions: The door must come with a comprehensive user manual detailing its operation, maintenance, and emergency procedures.
Risk assessment: Manufacturers and installers must assess potential risks and address them through design and installation.
Regular Maintenance and Servicing
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 state that workplace equipment, including roller shutter doors, must be kept in safe working condition. This places an obligation on business owners to ensure regular inspections and servicing are carried out.
Inspection frequency: Roller shutter doors should be inspected at least once a year, but for doors with high usage, more frequent checks may be necessary.
Record-keeping: Maintain a log of all inspections, servicing, and repairs as evidence of compliance and due diligence.
Fire Safety Regulations
For businesses using roller shutter doors in fire-sensitive areas, compliance with fire safety regulations is essential. Fire-rated roller shutter doors are often required, particularly in factories, warehouses, or premises storing hazardous materials.
Fire resistance: Doors should meet BS 476 or EN 1634 standards for fire resistance, ensuring they can contain fire and smoke for a specified duration.
Integration with fire alarms: Fire-rated doors must integrate with the building’s fire alarm system to automatically close in the event of an emergency.
Manual Handling and Accessibility
Manual roller shutters must comply with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 to ensure they are easy and safe to operate. Meanwhile, the Equality Act 2010 stipulates that premises must be accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities. This can affect the design and functionality of your doors.
Ease of use: Powered mechanisms or alternative access solutions may be required to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Emergency access: Doors should be designed to allow quick and safe access or egress during emergencies.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
Failure to comply with legal requirements can lead to voided insurance policies or liability issues in the event of an accident. Ensuring your roller shutter doors are legally compliant protects both your staff and your business.
How Nova Industrial Can Help
At Nova Industrial, we provide expert advice, installation, and ongoing support to ensure your roller shutter doors comply with all UK legal and safety requirements. From fire-rated doors to high-speed industrial solutions, we deliver bespoke systems tailored to your needs.
Consultation: We assess your premises to recommend the most suitable products.
Professional installation: Our skilled team ensures your doors meet all regulatory standards.
Maintenance packages: Stay compliant with our regular inspection and servicing plans.
Contact us today to discuss your roller shutter door requirements and ensure your business remains compliant and secure.