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Writer's pictureMark Gordon

What is the BS9251 standard, and how do you ensure compliance?

Updated: Jul 31




The BS9251 Standard refers to the British Standard for Fire Sprinklers. These guidelines and requirements outline the necessary steps for designing, installing, and maintaining fire sprinkler systems in buildings. Fire safety systems are essential in preventing the spread of fires and reducing the risk of harm to people and property. These systems can promptly suppress fires, ensuring that they don't have a chance to spread.

The BS9251 was originally introduced back in 2001, the Standard has undergone several changes, the most significant of which were in 2021 in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The BS9251 covers various areas, such as system design, testing, installation and maintenance. It also specifies the necessary sprinkler heads and other components required in a fire sprinkler system, along with the water flow and pressure that the system must deliver.


What were the most recent changes to the BS9251 Standard?


A number of new topics were added that specifically apply to taller buildings. These Category 4 Sprinkler System regulations must be implemented in all residential buildings that have an occupied storey height of 18m or higher. Recommendations were also made for duplicate sprinkler pumps and increased sprinkler head spacing.


Furthermore, the minimum water supply capacity for taller buildings and other high-risk situations was increased. The minimum water supply duration is now 60 minutes, and two or more tanks capable of providing 50% or more of the required limit to the supply system are necessary to satisfy the regulations.


The sprinkler system should also be fed with a backup power supply and automatic change over functionality.


The importance of fire safety and water-based fire suppression systems


Fire sprinkler systems can save lives, homes, and businesses by providing protection against fire damage.


The main benefit is to increase the chances of people getting out safely in case of a fire, by reducing the speed, scale and severity of a fire. Fire Sprinkler Systems have been shown to work as intended 94% of the time, and control the fire 99% reliable. Installing this equipment in commercial areas could prevent the spread of fires, reducing the likelihood of fatalities.


Fire sprinklers also help to protect your property by limiting the damage a fire can cause. Sprinklers will activate and suppress the flames, preventing them from spreading further and causing more damage to your property.


Fire Sprinklers not only safeguard your property but also preserve your company's reputation. In the unfortunate event of a fire, if the system effectively prevents any damage and helps you return to normal business operations, it reflects positively on your company's efficiency. On the other hand, if you don't have such systems in place and your property is destroyed, it can have a devastating impact on your business.


In certain circumstances installing a fire sprinkler system may reduce the cost of your insurance premium. However, if sprinklers are required by law it is unlikely that you’ll be offered a discount. If a building does not meet the required standards of fire safety, it is unlikely that an insurance claim would be successful. Water damage caused by sprinklers discharging when a fire is detected is usually covered by insurance, but it is important to check the details of your policy.


The BS9251 Standard imposes stricter safety regulations on landlords, business owners, managers, who may be held accountable for any harm or loss that results from breaking these rules.


The Grenfell Tower disaster proved that changes were needed to prevent this from happening again, not only in high rise buildings but other high density buildings too.

For example:


● Schools and nurseries

● Care homes with vulnerable people

● Hospitals

● Hotels

● Office buildings

● Warehouses


Why is it important to have fire safety standards in different industries?


Fire safety standards play a crucial role in safeguarding lives, protecting property, complying with regulations, mitigating risks, ensuring insurance coverage, and maintaining a positive reputation. They provide a framework for best practices and help industries establish effective fire prevention, detection, and response measures. Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, customers and employees is crucial for all businesses and can greatly affect all areas of an operation. Fire safety standards are essential in different industries for several important reasons:

  • Protection of life

  • Protection of property

  • Legal and regulatory compliance

  • Risk management

  • Insurance and liability

  • Public trust and reputation


Contact Base Fire Sprinklers Today


Moving into a more stringent regulatory environment, the industry is taking measures to provide suitable guidance and regulations, from the design and installation to the maintenance of these systems.


The latest update to BS9251 in 2021, is part of a series of measures implemented since the Grenfell Tower tragedy to prevent such a catastrophe from ever occurring again. The BS9251:2021 provides a clearer and more comprehensive guide to fire safety requirements and can be used for buildings of any height, including those 18m+ high.


It is essential to abide by these changes, as not only is it a regulation, but it is also the ethical thing to do to avoid any potential disasters that could result in loss of life.


At Base Fire Sprinklers, being one of the leading UK fire sprinkler companies, we understand the utmost importance of the recent BS9251 Standard changes and why it was crucial for this to be implemented.


With over 20 years of industry experience, our team is fully equipped to deliver the best fire sprinkler solution for you and your project. We cover residential and commercial properties including Apartment Sprinkler Systems, Student Flats & Accommodation Sprinkler Systems and even Care Home Sprinkler Systems.


We typically work with:


● Residential Property Developers

● Building Surveying Companies

● Mechanical Engineering Companies

● Care Home Providers

● Block Management Companies

● Facilities Management Companies

● Maintenance Companies

● Building Services Consultants

● Home Owners

● M&E Contractors


To discuss the fire sprinkler system requirements for your building or project, Contact Base Fire Sprinklers today..




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