Since its establishment in 1993, Window Techs India Pvt. Ltd. has emerged as a leader in the home furnishings sector. With over thirty years of industry expertise, the company has consistently delivered innovative curtain solutions for homes and diverse sectors, including hospitals. In 2010, Window Techs expanded its offerings by introducing fire curtains, combining safety and style seamlessly.
Committed to enhancing the customer experience, Window Techs also leverages cutting-edge technology, curates an extensive range of collections, and provides unique options tailored to client needs.
In an exclusive dialogue with The Interview World, Vishal Khandelwal, Managing Director and CEO of Window Techs, discusses the vital role of fire curtains in protecting against fire hazards. He further elaborates on the materials used in their production and emphasizes the importance of adherence to fire safety norms within the construction industry. Below are the key insights from his thought-provoking conversation.
Q: Could you provide more details about the fire safety products you manufacture and their key features?
A: We specialize in manufacturing fire and smoke curtains designed for effective compartmentation. According to the National Building Code 2016, we must compartmentalize sub-areas for safety. Fire compartmentation can be achieved through fire doors, fire-glazed doors, fiberglass, or brick walls. However, in larger spaces where installing traditional fire doors or glass is impractical, fire curtains serve as an ideal solution. Notably, in projects like Yashobomi, our fire curtains prominently enhance safety.
We began manufacturing fire curtains nearly fifteen years ago and have established ourselves as pioneers in this field. Currently, India lacks standardized regulations for fire curtains, as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is still developing these guidelines. To ensure our products meet international safety standards, we have conducted tests in European laboratories, specifically under EN standards. We are proud to be the only company to achieve testing certifications for EN 1634 and EN 12101.
Our fire curtains are now integral to various government and private projects, including hotels, hospitals, and auditoriums, demonstrating our commitment to advancing fire safety in India.
Q: Can you explain how these curtains help protect against fire hazards?
A: Our automated fire curtains feature an innovative mechanism that ensures optimal safety. It utilizes a fail-safe gravity motor, which keeps the curtain in a retracted position until activated. When the fire alarm system is triggered, the curtain descends effortlessly due to this fail-safe design. The brake releases, allowing the curtain to fall and create effective compartmentation, preventing smoke and fire from spreading to other areas.
Our fire curtains undergo rigorous testing, certified to withstand temperatures up to 1100 degrees for four hours. This critical timeframe provides sufficient opportunity to evacuate individuals safely, ensuring their well-being. This is the essence of our fire curtain—a reliable solution for maximum safety in emergencies.
Q: What materials do you use in the construction of these fire curtains?
A: We use an innovative textile crafted from stainless steel and fiberglass fabric, enhanced with a durable polyurethane coating. Furthermore, we manufacture these fire curtains in our Faridabad factory, embodying the spirit of Indian ingenuity. It’s a true testament to quality and craftsmanship, representing a fully Indian-made product.
Q: Do you also export these products to international markets?
A: We have secured CE certification from a European notified body, enabling us to export our products to Gulf countries. Currently, we are the sole exporter of this product in India. While we can enter the European market, we have not yet commenced exports there.
Q: What advice would you give to the construction industry regarding fire safety and the use of fire curtains?
A: I won’t dictate whether you should choose a fire curtain, fire door, or any other solution. However, as a responsible citizen, I urge my fellow industrialists and construction companies to adhere to the National Building Code guidelines. Fire safety is critical; we should prioritize our safety, much like wearing a helmet, not just for compliance.
Let’s move away from the outdated practice of bribing fire officers to obtain an NOC without proper measures. Instead, follow the National Building Code, implement all necessary safety measures, and secure your NOC to ensure public safety remains paramount. The fire curtain is just one component of the broader fire safety framework. Please act ethically in all your endeavors; that is my earnest request.
