Ensuring your roller shutters and automatic doors comply with UK regulations is not just a legal requirement—it’s essential for safety, security, and operational efficiency. At Otero Doors, we help businesses and property owners stay compliant by supplying and maintaining doors that meet all necessary UK standards.
Key Legal Requirements for Roller Shutters & Automatic Doors
1. Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992
Employers must ensure that doors and shutters used in workplaces are safe, well-maintained, and do not pose a hazard to employees or visitors. This includes:
Ensuring shutters and automatic doors are in good working order.
Keeping access points unobstructed for emergency situations.
Maintaining doors to prevent risks such as entrapment or mechanical failure.
2. The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
This legislation applies to the installation of new automatic and electric roller shutters. It mandates:
Compliance with BS EN 13241-1, the British Standard for industrial and commercial doors.
Proper safety features, such as emergency stop functions, force limitation, and obstruction detection.
Clear CE or UKCA marking to confirm compliance with UK product safety laws.
3. PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) 1998
If roller shutters and automatic doors are used within a business, they must meet PUWER requirements, which include:
Routine maintenance and servicing to ensure safe operation.
Conducting risk assessments to identify potential hazards.
Ensuring employees are properly trained to use the doors safely.
4. LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) 1998
Where roller shutters or automatic doors incorporate a lifting mechanism, LOLER may apply. This means:
Equipment must be inspected and tested at regular intervals by a competent person.
Inspection reports must be maintained as proof of compliance.
5. Fire Safety & Emergency Exit Regulations
For fire-rated roller shutters and doors, compliance with BS 476-22 or BS EN 16034 is required. This ensures:
Correct fire resistance levels for shutters installed in fire-prone areas.
Automatic doors do not obstruct emergency exits and allow safe egress during power failures.
Proper integration with fire alarm systems where required.
6. Regular Servicing & Maintenance (Legal Obligation for Business Owners)
Under PUWER and the Workplace Regulations, businesses must ensure automatic doors and roller shutters are regularly inspected. Failure to maintain them could result in legal liability in the event of an accident. Best practices include:
Annual servicing for commercial doors (recommended every 6-12 months).
Daily operational checks to identify faults before they escalate.
Emergency repair services to resolve safety issues immediately.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the above regulations can result in:
Fines or prosecution under Health & Safety law.
Enforcement action from the HSE (Health and Safety Executive).
Invalidation of insurance in the event of an accident.
Need a Compliance Check?
Book a legal compliance service with our expert team today!