Blake Fire and Security Systems

Commercial Roller Shutters, Fire Roller Shutters & Fire Curtains that drop into place...

When your Responsible Person needs to be certain your building can prevent the spread of smoke and fire... choose Blake's.

Fully compliant. Fully maintained. And fully protected!


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    When your FRA says your Fire Roller Shutters & Curtains need to be integrated...

    Roller shutter
    Most people are familiar with commercial roller shutters. You regularly see them being opened and closed to reveal the shop windows on the High Street. They protect the glass from being attacked by thieves and vandals.

    But, inside a commercial property, there can be another use for them... When your Fire Risk Assessment says you need fire-rated roller shutters.

    When your FRA specifies integrated Fire Roller Shutters or Fire Curtains


    The Fire Safety Order requires the appointment of a Responsible Person to ensure there is adequate fire protection in every non-domestic premises in the UK.

    This Responsible Person is usually the business owner or, for schools, the head teacher. They must ensure that there is an up to date Fire Risk Assessment. And that everything highlighted has been addressed completely. If not, they could be prosecuted, fined and even imprisoned!

    When people think of Fire Doors, they usually think of solid doors that open on a hinge. But Fire Roller Shutters and Fire Curtains can also be a vital part of the Fire Stopping process. They prevent the spread of smoke and fire in a building. By blocking off doorways and windows where a hinged Fire Door is not an option.

    Often, your FRA will say that Fire Roller Shutters or Fire Curtains need to be integrated with your Fire Alarm System to shut automatically in the event of a fire

    Regulations change over the years, but one thing remains the same. A serious fire can have real implications - both emotional and financial.

    Blake Fire & Security Systems have a long and distinguished track record of installing, commissioning and maintaining Fire Roller Shutters and Fire Curtains. From our HQ in Southend, we're proud to keep businesses safe across Essex, London and the South East.
    It’s critical you use an established, competent company to install your Roller Shutters, Fire Roller Shutters and Fire Curtains. And that’s where Blake’s come in...
    fire roller shutters for businesses in Essex

    Fire Roller Shutters

    Confines fire to aid evacuation
    When triggerd by the fire alarm, Fire roller shutters are designed to confine a fire to where it starts.

    This buys time for the occupants of a building to escape. And time for the emergency services to tackle the blaze before it spreads further.

    There are three rating levels: 1, 2 or 4 hours (usually expressed as 60, 120 and 240 minutes)
    Speak to us about fire roller shutters
    commercial roller shutters

    Commercial Roller Shutters

    Protection from thieves & vandals
    A roller shutter is great for physical security within a busy working environment.

    Like protecting glass shopfronts or loading bay entrances.

    But it isn't designed to hold back flames or prevent their spread.

    That type of heat will threaten their structural integrity.
    Speak to an expert about roller shutters
    fire curtains

    Fire Curtains for larger openings

    Prevents the spread of smoke
    Fire curtains are typically made from a woven fibreglass material.

    They can be used to cover much wider openings. For example, between floors.

    And they take up much less space.

    Plus no slats means it's much harder for toxic smoke to reach other areas.
    Speak to an expert about fire curtains
    Still researching? Click here to get advice from the experts on how to ensure your Fire Safety is compliant with legislation.

    Audited & Approved

    ...compliant AND in safe hands with Blake's
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    Fire roller shutter

    What is a Roller Shutter or Roller Door?

    Roller Shutters are a protective shield for windows or doors. They are formed from a series of hinged horizontal aluminium or steel slats. The slats are rolled around a barrel and can be lifted up and down with a spring and/or electric motor.

    Roller Doors are formed from a single piece of curtain.

    Most often you will see them protecting the doors and windows of retail shops or factories from vandalism or burglary. Roller Shutters also work well for garage doors.

    What is a Fire Roller Shutter?

    Fire Roller Shutters are a low-cost solution to secure an opening AND limit the spread of flames and smoke if a fire breaks out in your building.

    Like regular Roller Shutters, they are made of slatted steel. BUT...

    The design has been altered so that the integrity of the fire shutter is not compromised when there is a fire.

    They have a specified fire resistance level (FLR) of 1-4 hours according to the most recent British Standard. And are designed to close so that the fire is contained or to fully open so they can become an emergency exit.

    Fire Roller Shutters are frequently linked to the building's Fire Alarm system. When they are activated, Fire-rated Roller Shutters close automatically, to compartmentalise the building. This stops flames and smoke from spreading into the different sections of the building and so can minimise damage.

    By stopping the speed of the spread of the fire, the occupants of the building also have a few extra minutes to evacuate. And there is more time for the Fire Service to arrive.

    Fire shutters can be used in:
    • industrial buildings like warehouses and factories; and
    • commercial buildings like retail shops.

    What is a Fire Curtain?

    A Fire Curtain is made from flexible glass fibre. Properly-fitted Fire Curtains can prevent the spread of fire and protect escape routes by compartmentalising the building.

    Like their sturdier sister, the Fire Roller Shutter, Fire Curtains can be linked to a Fire Alarm System and roll down automatically in the event of a fire.

    What is the difference between a Fire Roller Shutter and a Fire Curtain?

    Fire Roller Shutters are structural steel barriers.

    While Fire Curtains are foldable and made of a flexible, fire-resistant, woven-fibreglass material that is reinforced with steel guides and head boxes.

    Both can provide a fire resistance level (FRL) ranging from 1 to 4 hours - so long as the Fire Curtain is properly-fitted.

    A Fire Shutter also provides a high level of physical security due to its construction.

    Fire Brigades often prefer Fire Curtains because they can rip them down more easily to get to the main fire.

    Ian Blake

    MD of Blake Fire & Security
    Roller shutters can be:

    moved with a chain;
    moved manually;
    powered by a motor;
    regular metal or fire-rated.

    They can also pivot or swing or roll or move up and down.

    We recommend getting a full safety check on your roller shutters every year... because it is a moving part.

    We are happy to take over existing roller shutters and fire roller shutters that are in situ.

    For service and repairs or emergency repairs.
    I want to book a maintenance visit
    Ian Blake Roller Shutters
    Still researching? Click here to get advice from the experts on how to ensure your Fire Safety is compliant with legislation.
    Fire Roller Shutters

    Are all Roller Shutters fire rated?

    No. Only some shutters are constructed from fire-resistant materials.

    If your Fire Risk Assessment specifies Fire Roller Shutters, you should ensure that you choose a DHF accredited installer who will supply and fit the correct equipment.

    Do Fire Roller Shutters come in different ratings?

    The Fire Roller Shutters that Blake's supply are rated for 1, 2 and 4 hours. They meet the British Standard for fire resistance characteristics and for non-fire performance.

    Do Roller Shutters and Fire Roller Shutters need servicing?

    The simple answer is yes. Anything important to reducing the spread of fire and the welfare of the people using that building has to be regularly tested.

    Roller Shutters and Fire Roller Shutters are no exception. They don’t need a lot of maintenance but they do need to be checked to comply with Health and Safety regulations.

    The real question here is: How often to have your Roller Shutters serviced?

    The Health & Safety Act requires mechanical doors and any corresponding parts to be checked at least once every 12 months.

    Proof needs to be provided by signed paperwork from an authorised professional who has carried out the servicing checks.

    Will you offer maintenance of existing Roller Shutters as well as installation?

    Yes. We are happy to take over any existing Roller Shutters, Fire Roller Shutters or Fire Cutrains on your site.

    Has Your Responsible Person Read This Guide?

    Ensure your Fire Safety is compliant with legislation. Get help from the experts!
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    Dedication to Accreditation

    Why you should choose Blake Fire & Security to design, install and maintain your Fire and/or Security system, including Fire Doors.
    Long track record - our family-run firm has been installing fire and security protection across four decades. We're not going anywhere. Your guarantee will be honoured!
    Dedication to Accreditation - if we're not qualified to provide a service we won't offer it to you! Simple.
    Experience & Expertise - we're professional and fully qualified so you get the Fire and/or Security system that is perfect for your specific circumstances.
    Who is in your home or premises? - your engineer is always trustworthy, polite and fully qualified,. We have regular checks to ensure this.
    Quality workmanship and service - we're passionate about your Fire and/or Security system, our standard of work and the way we deliver it to you.
    Blake Fire & Security Systems have BAFE, NSI Gold, SSAIB and BM Trada approval! This means you get:
    Bespoke systems - designed to perfectly fit your family's requirements or the needs of your business.
    Highest quality systems and equipment - we only use the best quality, industry-approved equipment to provide Fire and/or Security protection that lasts and looks good.
    Police and Insurance recognition - our work is guaranteed to be of the highest standard and both Police and Insurance companies acknowledge this.
    Regular and reliable monitoring and maintenance - ensure your Fire and/or Security protection is working in your time of need AND someone is always watching over your home or business!

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      Accreditations and Memberships

      Domestic and commercial clients trust Blake's dedication to accreditation. We always meet or exceed the latest quality standards.

      The latest blog posts about Fire Roller Shutter & Curtains

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      29 January 2023
      When and where are Fire Roller Shutters required?

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      23 January 2023
      Are all Roller Shutters fire rated?

      Are all Roller Shutters fire rated? An ordinary roller shutter isn't designed to withstand fire. Yes, it can provide some additional physical security alongside regular use within a busy working environment. But it can't hold back flames or prevent their spread.

      For that, you need a Fire Roller Shutter.

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