Automatic fire sprinkler systems: A good practice guide

BRE is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries. Its activities include; consultancy, research and innovation, testing, certification, approvals, training, events and accreditation.

Automatic fire sprinkler systems: A good practice guide was published by BRE on 10 June 2009. It was written by C Williams.

Sprinkler systems distribute water to sprinklers which spray water into spaces, providing active fire protection. They are a well-established technology and have demonstrated their reliability and effectiveness in protecting life and property. Traditionally they have mainly been used in commercial and industrial properties, but they are now available for a wide range of applications, including domestic buildings.

They are designed and installed:

• To meet building control or other statutory requirements.
• To meet insurers’ requirements.
• To meet the risk management requirements of a business or property.

The 48 page guide provides good practice guidance on designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining sprinkler systems so they fulfil their purpose in the event of a fire.

It covers a range of issues related to automatic sprinkler systems, including; UK standards, design, installation and maintenance of existing and novel products. Appendices provide statistics about the incidence of real fires and the role of sprinklers in controlling them.

The contents of the guide include:

• 1 Introduction.
• 2 Background.
• 3 What is an automatic sprinkler system?
• 4 Benefits of automatic sprinkler systems.
• 5 Standards.
• 6 Stages in the lifecycle of automatic sprinkler systems.
• 7 Limitations of automatic sprinkler systems.
• 8 Potential problems with automatic sprinkler systems.
• 9 How to avoid potential problems with automatic sprinkler systems.
• 10 Conclusions and recommendations.

See also: Sprinkler systems explained: A guide to sprinkler installation standards and rules.

--BRE Group

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