Sprinklers and Building Regulations - Fire Suppression Systems

Sprinklers and Building Regulations – Fire Suppression Systems

Approved Document B (ADB) covers the requirements with respect to fire safety in dwellings.

If the usual building regulations requirements cannot be met, an Automist® fire suppression system can often help meet the requirements of ADB.

The following are examples of types of applications that are often accepted by building control officers:

Fire Brigade Access Limitations

Infill developments where it is not feasible for fire brigade vehicles to access and enter dwellings and apartment blocks. Access roads must be wide enough and have sufficient turning circles so that fire brigade appliances can be placed within 45m of the furthest point within the residential property.

Development on land, not meeting these requirements, may still be permitted if fire suppression protection is provided as a compensatory measure.

Alternative Means of Escape.

A secondary means of escape will be required when there is an occupied space over 7.5m. There is an alternative to this requirement by installing fire suppression throughout.

Open Stairways

The installation of a fire suppression system may allow for the creation of staircases that open onto ground floor living areas from second-floor apartments. When there is an existing open plan ground floor in a property requiring a loft conversion, this strategy is particularly beneficial. However, a cut off door may be required to separate the ground floor from the upper floors.

Travel Distance

If a fire suppression system is installed in a bedsit or open plan apartment, travel distances can be extended.

Inner Rooms

ADB does not allow inner rooms that open onto an open floor plan, but such rooms will be allowed if a fire suppression system is installed.

Internal Protected Corridors or Hallways

It is possible to extend these to areas where a fire suppression system has been installed.

Heat Detectors

The installation of fire suppression may permit the relaxation of the requirement for heat detectors in bedrooms/bedsits with cooking facilities and in kitchens. A fire suppression system will actuate at the same temperature as a heat detector, which will cause the alarm to sound simultaneously.

If you are interested in knowing more about Automist®, get in touch with Firemist on 0116 3400516.