Remote Control Roller Shutters: Effortless Security with Built-In Safety

Remote control roller shutters are powered by an electric motor, allowing you to open or close your shutter at the press of a button—no manual winding or heavy lifting required.

Operation via a Handheld Fob
The most popular way to operate remote control shutters is with a handheld key fob. Here’s how it works:
Wireless Convenience: The fob communicates with the shutter’s control unit using secure radio frequency signals.
Simple Controls: Most fobs feature straightforward UP, DOWN, and STOP buttons, making them easy to use for all ages and abilities.

Multiple Shutters, One Fob: Advanced systems can be programmed to control multiple shutters from a single device, ideal for homes or businesses with several entrances.

This system eliminates the need for wall switches, providing flexibility and ease of use—especially useful for garage doors, shopfronts, and hard-to-reach installations.

Essential Safety Devices for Remote Control Shutters
While remote operation is convenient, safety remains a top priority. Electric shutters are heavy and powerful, so it’s crucial that they’re equipped with safety devices to prevent accidents or damage. The main safety features we recommend are:

1. Safety Edges (Bottom Rail Safety Edge)
A safety edge is a pressure-sensitive strip fitted along the bottom edge of the shutter curtain. Its purpose:
Automatic Stop & Reverse: If the shutter is closing and the safety edge detects an obstruction—such as a person, pet, or object—it immediately stops and reverses direction.
Injury & Damage Prevention: This prevents the shutter from crushing or trapping anything in its path, providing essential protection for users and property.

2. Photo Cells (Infrared Safety Sensors)
Photo cells, sometimes called safety beams, are fitted to either side of the shutter opening. They use invisible infrared beams to detect obstructions in the path of the shutter.
Continuous Monitoring: If something breaks the beam while the shutter is closing, the system instantly stops or reverses the shutter.
Enhanced Safety: This is particularly useful in busy environments or where children and pets may be present.

3. Anti-Drop Safety Mechanisms
All electric roller shutters should be fitted with an anti-drop device. This mechanical safety feature prevents the shutter from falling uncontrollably in the event of a motor or gearbox failure, protecting anyone nearby from injury.

4. Manual Override
In case of a power failure, remote control shutters can be supplied with a manual override system (such as a crank handle or chain). This allows you to operate the shutter safely, even if the remote or motor is temporarily unavailable.
Why Are These Safety Devices Important?

Legal Compliance: UK and European safety standards require powered shutters to be fitted with suitable safety devices to protect users.

Peace of Mind: Knowing your shutter will automatically stop for any obstruction means you don’t have to worry about accidental injury or damage.

Insurance & Warranty: Properly installed safety devices help ensure your shutter installation remains compliant with insurance and warranty conditions.

The HVP Security Shutters Commitment
At HVP Security Shutters, all our remote control shutter systems are supplied and installed to the highest safety standards. We offer a full range of safety features—including safety edges and photo cells—so you can choose the right level of protection for your property.

Looking for advice on upgrading to remote control shutters, or want to know more about safety options?

Contact our team for expert guidance, technical support, or to arrange a free site survey.