BS 9251:2014 - The British Standard of Safety

BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems believes in codes of practice. For us, it has always been important to demonstrate engineering and installation to the highest global standards and codes, as CPVC has always been and continues to be, an innovation in non-metal fire sprinkler systems.

One such code of practice, which is so crucial to our continued success and the success of the fire safety professionals and the communities they serve, is BS 9251:2014 (2021 version currently under review.) 

Read on for an introduction to the British code of practice that encourages the best standards in fire sprinkler system design, installation and maintenance, and how together with BlazeMaster CPVC, architects can design future-proof fire safety into every build.

What is BS 9251?

BS 9251 is a code of practice established by a network of fire safety institutions. It first came into effect in 2014 and is currently in the process of receiving an update. Given the modern approach to fire safety is changing and the public are thankfully seeking further education on the subject, Now is a suitable time to remind construction professionals of this code of practice.

The standard was created by a committee consisting of the following fire industry organisations:

• British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)
• Building Research Establishment (BRE)
• Fire Rescue Service
• Other industry organizations

It was established as a guide for the design, installation and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems in domestic and residential occupancies. 

Who Should Read BS9251?

BS 9251 is intended for architects, system designers, engineers, surveyors, contractors, installers and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and indeed anyone with an investment in the design, construction and maintenance of residential buildings at any professional level.

Is BS 9251 Law?

BS 9251 is a best practices document. Its codes of practice and professional guidance are just that; guidance for those involved in fire safety in residential construction. While it is not law, it is a clear indicator of the standards required to meet regulations in modern construction, although not all conceivable circumstances can be included.

For example, when a system design requires any deviation from the standards set out by BS 9251, permission can still be obtained, provided designers seek approval from the necessary Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ.)

How Does BS 9251 Help?

Here are just a few examples of guidance provided by BS 9251 to system designers, installers and building owners:

Design

Designing a sprinkler system should be completed by a competent professional with third-party accreditation for sprinkler design, following BS9251 and sprinkler manufacturer’s instructions. 

Section 5 of BS 9251 sets out the minimum design parameters of a sprinkler system in accordance with the category of the system. These parameters include:

• Discharge density
• Number of sprinkler heads
• Duration of water supply
  
  

Design considerations also include:

• The extent of sprinkler protection
• Residential pattern sprinkler heads
• Sprinkler coverage and positioning
• Water supply
• Pumps
• Alarm systems

Installation

BS 9251 includes the following important guidelines for installers:

A sprinkler system is to be installed by a competent professional with third-party accreditation for sprinkler design. 

To ensure the system is operational, it must complete and pass a series of tests following a full visual inspection, including:

• Leakage test
• Hydraulic test 
• Alarm test

Maintenance

In accordance with BS 9251, once installed and as part of a regular maintenance regime, the sprinkler system should undergo an annual inspection and test by a competent person. This is recorded along with any reinstatement of the system in the associated logbook.

Good practices in fire safety affect everyone. That is why BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems wants to give system designers the best possible start to each project, with guidance on best practices that are simple to access and share.

This is why The Orange Book is now available. Download your ultimate specification guide for more information on the standards, codes and practices that BlazeMaster CPVC uses to keep residents safe. 

Click here for your copy.

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