FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems
The British standards associated with sprinkler systems are as follows.
BS 9251 is the main British Standard covering fire sprinklers in this country. BS 9251 gives guidance for the design, installation, components, water supplies and backflow protection, commissioning, maintenance and testing of fire sprinkler systems installed for life safety purposes with additional benefits for property protection in residential and domestic occupancies.
Sprinkler systems are the most effective way to ensure that fires are suppressed or even extinguished before the fire rescue service can attend the site. Sprinkler systems save lives and can reduce injuries, the additional benefit of protecting firefighters who attend incidents and contribute to reducing the amount of damage to both property and the environment from fire. BS 9251: 2014, British Standard for Fire sprinkler Systems for Domestic and Residential Occupancies. Specifically for domestic and residential fire sprinkler installations. This standard sets the minimum requirements for the design, installation, and commission of a fire sprinkler system.
Specific requirements for a sprinkler systems are shown below:
- Minimum flow rates: 60 litres per minute (lpm) through a single nozzle or 42lpm for multiple nozzles.
- Minimum design: 2 nozzles for domestic and 4 nozzles for residential properties.
- Minimum duration: 10 minutes for domestic properties, 30 minutes for residential properties.
- Minimum nozzle spacings: no more than 2m from any wall or corner, no closer apart than 4m.
The National Fire Sprinkler Network Report 2017 stated the following, reducing average property loss by up to 70% . In the UK there has never been a fire death in a building with a fully maintained sprinkler system. Fires are extinguished or controlled in 99% of sprinkler protected properties.
Weekly Testing & Servicing of Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Testing alarms, Pump/engine test.
- Test air compressors if installed, Check isolating valve positions, Heating systems/frost protection Monthly: Battery level checks, Water Storage tank security
Routine Servicing of Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Quarterly: Review of hazard, Inspection of pipework/supports, Water supply flow tests, Exercise stop valves, Test flow switches.
- Six Monthly: Alternate pipe system – change over from air to water/ water to air, Check electrical signal to Fire brigade Annually: Pump service, Check tank ball float valves, Engine service, Valve service/inspection.
- 3 Yearly: Inspect tanks, All valves & non return valves, Inspection, service and overhaul as necessary.
- Other Intervals: Tank drain down & clean – 10 yearly, Sprinkler head performance testing to suit rules.
In the UK residential and domestic fire sprinklers need to be serviced at least every 12 months. This is a legal requirement, so you do need to ensure that you get these systems serviced if they’re in your premises and it’s your responsibility to do so. The legal requirement is set out by the British Standard BS 9251:2014 which covers the regulations for all types of fire sprinkler systems.
Considerations When Choosing A Commercial CCTV System & Partner
Commercial CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) systems are video-surveillance solutions used by businesses to monitor activities across their premises. They help enhance security, deter crime, support operations, and provide evidence when needed.
Benefits Of Integrating Your Fire & Security Systems
Integrating fire and security systems creates a more efficient, coordinated safety infrastructure. During emergencies, connected systems can automate responses such as unlocking exits, directing cameras, and guiding first responders with real-time data. Centralised monitoring improves situational awareness by allowing staff to view alarms, CCTV, and access control from a single dashboard.
Fire Safety Training & Fire Safety Wardens For My Organisation
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 it is a legal requirement that all employers / responsible persons ensure that all employees are provided with adequate fire safety training. There is no difference between Marshal & Warden, both are frequently used to describe the same role they undertake, it's the same meaning, different word. You should have a fire warden in your workplace for every 50 people. Other spaces may be found to be at a much higher risk of a fire. In such a case, you may require one warden for every 15 to 20 people but review your FRA to help determine the quantity required.
Externally Monitored to Ensure that we meet a High Standard of Service.
As members of the SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board), We maintain service records and monitor our success. The SSAIB, is a leading certification body for organisations providing security systems and services, fire detection alarm systems, and monitoring services. So, you can be confident that we strive to provide our clients with a reliable and professional level of service.
