According to government guidelines, responsible persons must ensure that a “suitable and sufficient risk assessment is in place” for the use and operation of all roller shutters in the building. When taken care of correctly, these industrial doors can bring heightened levels of safety and security to any premises.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a detailed risk assessment – based on the current government guidelines
Roller shutter design and construction
- Your roller shutters must be UKCA and CE marked to the latest BSI and EU standards
- They must be constructed to relevant British Standard, as indicated on the fitted data-plate
- They must be safe for manual operation – e.g. is excessive force required to operate?
- Shutters controlled by gravity or those fitted with a self-closing mechanism must work smoothly
- Is mechanical protection in place to prevent unintentional movement?
Consider the main purpose of your roller shutter
- Will pedestrians be able to pass through safely?
- Will vehicles be able to move through safely?
- If there will be a mix of pedestrians and vehicles, do you have the industrial doors to cater for this? Will there be an alternative access point available?
- Who will be in charge of shutter operation?
- How often will the shutter be used?
- How fast do you need the shutter to operate?
- Are there adequate safety measures in place to protect those operating the shutter?
- Will others in the area be kept safe when the shutter is in operation?
Providing training
- Issue training to those operating the roller shutters to ensure their safety
- Are there set procedures in place to ensure safe operation?
- Will operators and users know how to act in an emergency situation?
Highlighting hazardous area
- Is there signage or a hazardous area line in place to protect people and vehicles in the area when the roller shutter is in use?
- Are these clear to read?
- Are they in good condition?
Are your roller shutters close to traffic areas?
- If yes, are there any controls in place to ensure that roller shutter operation is safe for all those surrounding the area?
Pass doors
A pass door is situated on a vertical door opening, allowing pedestrian traffic to step through.
- If these are installed, have they been fitted safely?
- If not, evaluate whether you require them to optimise the safety of the building
The above are just some of the recommended factors that building owners should consider when ensuring the safe operation of roller shutters. However, additional factors may be added to this list if changes are made to industrial doors and shutters, or to the structure of the building. Your risk assessment must be reviewed regularly and adapted accordingly.
Here at SSS Industrial Doors, you can rely on our team of trained professionals to ensure that your roller shutters – or any other industrial door for that matter – is installed safely. In the rare instance that you do notice any signs of damage, we can offer an industrial door repair service and 24-hour call-outs. In doing this, we’ll ensure that your door is back up and running in no time, so that your business can continue to operate as it normally should. Contact us today to find out how we can enhance the safety and security of your premises.
