Roman blinds are a popular choice in care homes, hotels, and residential developments. They’re stylish, compact, and versatile, but in regulated environments, they must also be safe and compliant. The right lining not only enhances the look and feel of a Roman blind but also plays a vital role in fire safety.

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO), blinds must be included in a building’s fire risk assessment. Choosing fire retardant (FR) linings ensures compliance with BS 5867 Part 2 while also delivering benefits such as blackout, thermal insulation, and acoustic comfort.

Types of Linings for Fire Retardant Roman Blinds

1. Standard FR Lining (Sateen)

Purpose: Provides a neat finish, protects the face fabric, and improves drape.

Fire Safety: Manufactured or treated to meet BS 5867 Part 2.

Best For: Communal areas, lounges, or offices where blackout or thermal performance isn’t required.

2. Blackout FR Lining

Purpose: Blocks all light penetration, ensuring complete darkness when blinds are closed.

Fire Safety: Complies with BS 5867, making it suitable for regulated environments.

Best For: Bedrooms in care homes, hotels, and student accommodation.

Extra Benefit: Enhances privacy and reduces external light disturbance.

3. Thermal FR Lining

Purpose: Improves insulation by reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Fire Safety: Inherently flame retardant or treated to meet BS 5867.

Best For: Energy-conscious care facilities and hotels aiming to reduce running costs.

Extra Benefit: Creates a more comfortable living environment for residents and guests.

Choosing the Right Lining

The choice of lining depends on the specific needs of the environment:

Care Homes: Blackout or dimout linings in resident rooms, thermal linings in lounges.

Hotels: Blackout linings for bedrooms; bonded linings for premium suites.

Student Accommodation: Durable FR blackout linings for heavy use.

Communal Areas: Dimout or thermal linings to balance comfort and compliance.

Maintenance & Compliance

Always confirm that both face fabric and lining are certified to BS 5867 Part 2.

Keep certificates on file for inspections.

Follow care instructions closely, improper cleaning can reduce fire retardant performance.

Conclusion

Linings are the unsung heroes of fire retardant Roman blinds. From blackout to bonded options, they enhance not only the safety but also the performance and appearance of blinds in commercial and care environments. By selecting the right FR lining, facilities managers, designers, and purchasers can achieve the perfect balance of style, comfort, and compliance.