Fire Sprinkler Systems for Domestic Premises, Residential Houses and Hotels
In 2008, there were 49,600 dwelling fires in the UK resulting in over 350 deaths and 10,100 casualties. (Source: Annual Fire Statistics ODPM 2008). This frightening statistic should not be ignored by home owners and residential developers when considering the best way to protect property and life from the affects of fire.
Fire Protection Sprinkler Systems have long been used in factories, warehouses and shopping centres but there is now a valid recognition that they are as equally effective in saving lives and property in residential dwellings, domestic premises and hotels of all sizes..
A report commissioned by the Building Regulations Division, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM), and is quoted by BAFSA details the following:
- Homes with only smoke alarms fitted reduced deaths by 53% and injuries by 70%.
- Homes with a smoke alarm and a fire sprinkler system fitted reduced deaths by 83%, injuries by 45-85% and in addition to the above property loss by 40-50%. (These statistics are taken from other country's experiences).
Proof if ever needed that Fire Sprinkler Systems in Domestic and Residential properties save life injury and property.
Fire protection sprinkler systems are cost effective in, domestic, residential premises and tall blocks of flats. In dwellings such as family homes the cost benefits perceived are lower. However, at Fire Defence we can install a Fire Sprinkler System that are low cost to install and maintain and further trade-offs can be realised to reduce the cost of the systems. In fact the cost of installing a residential sprinkler system into a new build house can be as low as 1% of the capital cost.
Further Guidance
Approved Document B of the Building Regulations (in England and Wales) details the guidance on Sprinkler Systems in dwelling homes BAFSA produce various guides on the Trade Offs. Residential and domestic systems should comply with BS 9251: 2005 Sprinkler systems for residential and domestic occupancies - Code of practice. British standard for residential sprinklers 9251
Domestic and Residential
Some domestic properties can be required to install sprinkler systems to BS9251, if the Fire Officers feel that: The fire escape routes are not acceptable Fire doors cannot be fitted or are not acceptable, such as in listed buildings.
Hotels
Sprinkler systems within hotels are covered by a variety of hazard groups, but most will come under Light or Ordinary Hazard of BS 5306:part 2. The sprinkler heads could be either standard closed head sprinklers or concealed sprinklers. Larger hotels may also require a zone check at each floor level.
Smaller hotels may be protected under Code of Practice DD 251 'Sprinkler Systems for Residential and Domestic Occupancies' instead of BS 5306: Part 2.
Domestic Premises, Residential Houses and Hotels
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