Fire rated roller shutters are crucial components of fire safety systems in Malaysian buildings.
Designed to control and slow down the spread of fire, these specialised shutters protect lives and property.
This comprehensive guide explores the features, benefits, types, regulations, and maintenance of fire rated roller shutters in Malaysia.
Why are Fire Rated Roller Shutters Important?
1. Compartmentation and Fire Containment
Fire rated roller shutters create fire-resistant barriers between different areas of a building. They avoid the rapid burning and smoke from one compartment to another.
These shutters help localise the fire, making it easier for firefighters to control and extinguish.
2. Buying Time for Safe Evacuation
The ability of fire rated roller shutters to slow the spread of fire and smoke is invaluable.
They buy precious extra time, allowing building occupants to evacuate safely before the fire becomes uncontrollable.
Furthermore, these shutters enable firefighters to respond quickly and rescue anyone who may be trapped.
3. Meeting Building Code Requirements
To meet compartmentation requirements set by Malaysian building codes, such as UBBL 1984, fire rated roller shutters are essential.
Their importance is especially evident in large commercial and industrial spaces. By ensuring compliance, these shutters significantly mitigate fire safety risks.
4. Protecting Property and Assets
The containment provided by fire rated roller shutters minimises property damage by limiting the fire to a specific area. This restriction of the destruction caused by flames and smoke is crucial.
As a result, these shutters can significantly reduce the financial impact of a fire on a business or organisation.
Read More: Passive Fire Protection Malaysia: Why is It Essential?
When are Fire Roller Shutters Required?
1. High Fire Risk Premises
Fire rated roller shutters are required when a premises has a high fire risk due to its operations or materials handled.
For example, industrial facilities that work with flammable liquids, gases, or combustible materials, such as:
- oil refineries
- chemical plants
- woodworking factories
In such cases, fire rated roller shutters help contain potential fires, minimising the risk of them spreading to other parts of the facility or adjacent buildings.
2. Large Open Spaces
Fire roller shutters are necessary when large open spaces need to be divided into smaller fire compartments. This safety measure prevents rapid fire spread and makes it easier to control the fire.
3. Protection of Critical Areas
Critical escape routes or high-occupancy areas require additional fire and smoke protection, which fire rated roller shutters provide.
For example, they can protect main evacuation corridors in shopping malls, patient wards in hospitals, and auditoriums where large numbers of people gather.
Where are Fire Roller Shutters Commonly Used?
1. Factories and Manufacturing Plants
Fire roller shutters are commonly installed in factories and manufacturing plants. These facilities often have a higher fire risk due to their operations and materials used.
2. Warehouses and Storage Facilities
Warehouses and storage facilities use fire rated roller shutters to contain potential fires and protect stored goods.
3. Shopping Malls and Retail Stores
Shopping malls and retail stores use fire rated roller shutters to compartmentalise the space and protect shoppers and merchandise from fire.
Read More: Fire Extinguisher Location in Malaysia: Where, When & Why
Features and Benefits of Fire Rated Roller Shutters
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1. Automatic Closure
Fire rated roller shutters automatically close when triggered by a fire alarm or fusible link. This quick response forms a protective barrier that prevents the spread of fire and smoke.
Automatic closure guarantees a timely response, even if no one is present to manually close the shutters.
2. Fire Resistance Ratings
Shutters are rated for integrity and insulation, which prevent fire penetration and limit heat transfer, respectively.
These ratings range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the specific product and its application. Higher ratings provide greater protection and are required for certain high-risk areas within a building.
3. Smooth Operation and Reliability
Motor-driven or gravity failsafe operation guarantees that fire rated roller shutters close reliably during a fire.
Regular maintenance and testing help to maintain proper function over time, making sure that performance is at its best when necessary.
Types of Fire Rated Roller Shutters
1. Insulated Fire Rated Roller Shutters
Insulated fire rated roller shutters have both integrity and insulation ratings. This provides enhanced protection against fire and heat transfer.
These shutters are used in wall and floor openings where limiting heat transfer is crucial. They are ideal for compartmentation between high-risk areas and escape routes.
2. Uninsulated Fire Rated Roller Shutters
Uninsulated fire rated roller shutters have only integrity ratings. They prevent fire penetration but do not limit heat transfer.
These shutters are suitable for applications where insulation is not a critical requirement. They are commonly used in atriums, escalator voids, and basement driveways.
Maintenance and Selection Tips
1. Regular Inspection and Testing
Regularly inspecting and testing fire-rated roller shutters is crucial to maintain them in good working order. Shutters should be inspected monthly for physical damage, corrosion, or obstructions that could impede operation.
They should also be tested regularly to ensure they close properly when activated by the fire alarm system.
2. Proper Selection Criteria
When selecting fire rated roller shutters, first choose shutters with appropriate fire resistance ratings for the specific application.
Additionally, verify that the ratings comply with building code requirements. Next, evaluate the size and configuration of the opening to guarantee proper fit and operation.
By following these steps, you will enhance overall fire safety in your building.
3. JBPM Certification and Reputable Suppliers
To secure quality and compliance, select fire rated roller shutters tested and certified by JBPM. Always make sure that qualified professionals install and maintain the shutters for optimal performance and safety.
Read More: Common Fire Code Violations in Malaysia & How to Avoid Them
Palcon’s Certified Fire Rated Roller Shutters for Optimal Safety
Palcon specialises in supplying, installing, and maintaining fire rated roller shutters and other fire protection systems.
We also provide fire safety products such as:
Contact us today for a consultation, and protect lives and property with the highest-quality fire safety equipment and expertise.
