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News Release from: British Fire Consortium | Subject: BS 9251
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 13 October 2004
Sprinklers Set To Relax Fire Rules
Members of the British Fire Consortium anticipate an increase in the installation of domestic sprinkler systems following the imminent publication of a new British Standard.
Members of the British Fire Consortium anticipate an increase in the installation of domestic sprinkler systems following the imminent publication of a new British Standard BS 9251 will finally set out formal guidelines for domestic sprinkler systems which offer increased design scope to architects over property siting and internal layouts
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 7 Apr 2006 at 8.00am (UK)
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The new Code of Practice (BS 9251 - Sprinkler systems for residential and domestic occupancies) contains guidelines over the design, installation and maintenance of domestic and residential systems including detailed technical information on the components, hydraulics and control of the system.
The Standard recognises that the provision of a sprinkler system does not negate the need for precautions such as structural fire resistance and smoke detectors.
However it is anticipated by the technical committee behind the document that there will be a significant reduction of existing fire safety restrictions in schemes where a sprinkler system is specified.
For example, requirements for fire barriers between stairways and open plan areas may be relaxed, whilst travelling distances between fire separation points could be doubled.
Specification of a sprinkler system will also now make possible the siting of properties where fire brigade access is difficult and may have restricted previous planning opportunities.
The Standard also states that "the design and installation of any system should be entrusted to a suitably qualified and experienced sprinkler contractor".
A list of suitable contractors is available from the British Fire Consortium (BFC) which has formed an association of members who specialise in domestic sprinkler system installation.
The BFC is a trade association of more than 200 independent UK companies primarily involved in the installation and maintenance of fire protection equipment including fire extinguishers, fire alarm systems, fire blankets and safety signage.
Members are based all over the UK.
For more information please call the BFC Secretary on 01273 297274 or visit the BFC website at www.tbfc.org.uk or, if your interest is specifically in domestic or residential sprinklers, please visit www.bfcsa.org.uk.
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