BS 9251:2005

BRITISH STANDARD

Sprinkler sysrerns for

residential and
domest ic

occupanCIes
Code of practice

CONTROLLED COpy

--

I/'-I-Io~~

lCS 13.220.20

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

BS 9251:2005

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by Technical
Committee FSH/18, Fixed firefighting systems, to Subcommittee FSH/18/2,
Sprinkler systems, upon which the following bodies were represented:
ABI - Association of British Insurers
Association of Building Engineers
BASA - British Automatic Sprinkler Association
BRE/LPC

Laboratories

British Fire Consortium

British Plastics Federation
British Pump Manufacturers' Association
British Fire Protection Systems Association
Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers' Association
Copper Development Association
District Surveyors' Association
Fire Sprinkler Association
Home Office
IFS - Institute of Fire Safety
London District Surveyors' Association
London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority
National Fire Sprinkler Network
ODPM - represented by BRE
ODPM - Construction Directorate
Powder Actuated Systems Association
WaterUK
Co-opted member

This British Standard was

published under the authority
of the Standards Policy and
Strategy Committee on
31 January 2005
BSI 31 January 2005

First published as DD 251

April 2000
First edition as BS 9251
January 2005

AInendments issued since publication

Amd. No.

'Jihefollowing BSI references

relate to the work on this
British Standard:
Committee reference FSHI1S/2

ISBN 0 580 44816 9

Date

Comments

BS 9251:2005

Contents
Committees responsible
Foreword

Page
Inside front cover

Introduction
1
Scope
2
Normative references
3
Terms and definitions
4
Consultation
5
Design
6
Installation, commissioning and documentation
7
Maintenance

11

8
8
8
10
11

16
18

Annex A (normative) Hydraulic calculation

Annex B (normative) Pipework support

19
22

Bibliography

23

Figure la) - Typical mains fed sprinkler system installation control details
(unmetered supply)
2
Figure 1b) - Typical mains fed sprinkler system installation control
details - For new buildings (metered domestic supply)
3
Figure 2a) - Typical in line fire pump fed sprinkler system installation
control details (unmetered supply)
4
Figure 2b) - Typical in line fire pump fed sprinkler system installation
control details (metered domestic supply)
5
Figure 3a) - Typical stored water and fire pump fed sprinkler system
installation control details (unmetered supply)
6
Figure 3b) - Typical stored water and fire pump fed sprinkler system
installation control details (metered domestic supply)
7
Figure 4 - Typical sprinkler connection, installation control and
monitoring details
15
Table Al - Pressure loss in 1 m of copper pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 IImin
Table A2 - Pressure loss in 1 m of CPVC pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 llmin
Table A.3 - Pressure loss in 1 m of steel pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 llmin
Table A4 - Values of C for steel, copper and CPVC
Table A5 - The equivalent length of copper pipe for the pressure loss
due to the bend for a water flow rate of 60 IImin
Table A6 - Copper: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres
of pipe)
Table A.7 - Steel: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Table A.8 - CPVC: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres
of pipe)
Table B.1 - Maxim urn spacing of fixings for copper and stainless steel
pipework
Table B.2 - Maximum spacing of fixings for steel pipework
Table B.3 - Maximum spacing of fixings for CPVC pipework

---

BSI 31 January 2005

19
19
20
20
20
21
21
21
22
22
22

BS 9251:2005

Foreword
This British Standard has been prepared by a Task Group from Technical
Committee FSH/18/2. It supersedes DD 251:2000, which is withdrawn.
It gives recommendations for the design, installation, components, water
supplies, commissioning and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems for use
specifically in residential and domestic occupancies. It is intended for the use of
designers, engineers, architects, surveyors, contractors, installers and
authorities having jurisdiction. Sprinkler protection for other buildings and
industrial plant is specified in BS 5306-2 and BS EN 12845.
Fire sprinkler systems for domestic and residential application are designed to
provide an additional degree of protection oflife and property, above that already
achieved by the installation of smoke and/or fire detectors and systems. This
British Standard presumes that the sprinkler protection will form part of an
integrated fire safety system as part of the building design.

Product certification/inspection/testing.

Users of this British Standard are

advised to consider the desirability of third-party certification/inspection/testing
of product conformity with this British Standard. Appropriate conformity
attestation arrangements
are described in BS EN ISO 9001. Users seeking
assistance in identifying appropriate conformity assessment bodies or schemes
may ask BSI to forward their enquiries to the relevant association.

The recommendations contained in this British Standard result from the best
technical information available to the committee at the time of writing.
Firefighting and life protection encompasses a wide field of endeavour and as
such it is impracticable to cover every possible factor or circumstance that might
affect implementation of this British Standard. Therefore the design and
installation of any system should be entrusted to a suitably qualified and
experienced sprinkler contractor.
Attention is drawn to the requirements of BS 6700 with special regard to
back-flow prevention and to BS 1710 for guidance on identification and marking
of pipework.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance
with a British
from legal obligations.
Attention
[3].

is drawn

Summary

of pages

Standard

to the requirements

does not of itself confer

of the Water

immunity

Regulations

[1], [2],

This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 23 to and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.

11

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

Introduction
Sprinkler systems have demonstrated their value in protecting life and property in industrial and
commercial applications for many years. The advent of sprinklers that operate at an earlier stage in the
development of a fire, plus the recognition that the largest numbers of deaths from fire occur in the home,
have led to the introduction of sprinkler systems specifically designed for residential and domestic
occupancies.
A correctly designed and installed sprinkler system can detect and control a fire at an early stage of
development and activate an alarm. Operation of the system will rapidly reduce the rate of production of
heat and smoke, allowing more time for the occupants to escape to safety or be rescued.
This British Standard accordingly covers design, installation, components, water supplies, maintenance
and testing of residential and domestic sprinkler systems installed for life safety purposes.
Residential and domestic fire sprinkler systems are systems in accordance with this standard and consist
of a water supply, backflow prevention valve (check valve), stop valve, priority demand valve (where
required), automatic alarm system (both internal and external) and pipe work to quick response sprinklers.
The sprinklers are fitted at specified locations, the appropriate sprinkler type being used for each location.
The main elements of a typical domestic fire sprinkler system are shown in Figure la) and Figure Lb),
Figure 2a) and Figure 2b) and Figure 3a) and Figure 3b).
Sprinklers operate at a pre-determined temperature to discharge water over a known area below. The flow
of water thus initiated causes the sounding of an alarm. Only those sprinklers operate which are
individually heated above their operating temperature by the heat from the fire.
The provision of a sprinkler system does not negate the need for other fire precautions or practical
measures, which may include structural fire resistance, escape routes, smoke or fire detectors and safe
housekeeping practices. Even with the installation of a sprinkler system, normal actions on the discovery
of a fire should be taken, such as immediate evacuation and the calling of the fire service. The sprinkler
system should be turned off by the fire service when it is deemed safe to do so.
Sprinkler system maintenance is not complex but is essential (see Clause 7). It is important that owners
and occupiers pay particular attention to precautions issued by the sprinkler contractor, such as the
avoidance of obstructions to the sprinkler, or the painting of the sprinkler head.

BSI 31 January 2005

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NOTE 2 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives .
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Booster pump
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Water undertaker's stop
valve
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Pressure switch
Drain valve
Water meter
Above ground water supply
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supply
18 Sprinkler specialist
19 Water undertaker
20 Back edge of the kerb

NOTE 1 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.

NOTE 2

Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.

Figure 2a) - Typical in line fire pump fed sprinkler system installation control details (unmetered supply)

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supply
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20 Back edge of the kerb

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Booster pump
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Water undertaker's stop
valve
Isolation valve
Pressure switch
Drain valve
Water meter
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supply
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supply
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Pressure switch
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BS 9251:2005

1 Scope
This British Standard gives recommendations for the design, installation, components, water supplies and
backflow protection, commissioning, maintenance and testing of fire sprinkler systems installed for life
safety purposes with additional benefits for property protection in residential and domestic occupancies.
Residential occupancies, for multiple occupation, not exceeding 20 m in height, include apartments,
residential homes, houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs), blocks of flats, boarding houses, aged persons
homes, nursing homes, residential rehabilitation accommodation and dormitories.
Domestic occupancies include individual dwelling houses, individual flats, maisonettes and transportable
homes.
NOTE Care should be taken particularly when specifying residential sprinkler systems that the fire/fuel loading in any given
occupancy does not exceed that which would normally be found in a residential living room, kitchen and bedrooms. If the fire/fuel
loading is greater than that of a conventional residential occupancy then consideration should be given to installing a sprinkler
installation in accordance with BS 5306-2/BS EN 12845. Key indicators of high fire loading include significant volumes of video tapes,
books, paper and institutional catering facilities.

2 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this British Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any
of these publications do not apply. For undated references, the latest edition of the publication referred to
applies.
BS 21, Specification for pipe threads for tubes and fittings where pressure-tight
threads (metric dimensions).

joints are made on the

BS 476, Fire tests on building materials and structures.

BS 5839-6, Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings - Part 6: Code of practice for the design and
installation of fire detection and alarm systems in dwellings.
BS 6700, Specification for design, installation, testing and maintenance
domestic use within buildings and their curtilages.
DD 252, Components for residential sprinkler systems sprinklers.
BS EN 1057, Copper and copper alloys heating applications.

of services supplying water for

Test methods and specification for residential

Seamless round copper tubes for water and gas in sanitary and

BS EN 12259-1, Fixed firefighting systems Part 1: Sprinklers.

BS EN 29453 (ISO 9453), Soft solder alloys -

Components for sprinkler and water spray systems Chemical compositions and forms.

ISO 7-1, Pipe threads where pressure-tight joints are made on the threads - Part 1: Dimensions, tolerances
and designation.
ISO 65, Carbon steel tubes suitable for screwing in accordance with ISO 7-1.

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this British Standard the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1

alarm device
electrical or mechanical device for detecting water flow into the system and sounding an alarm
3.2

alarm system
elect~ical or mechanical system audible internally and externally, with a built-in precaution to avoid
SPUrlOUS alarms
NOTE

An electrical system should be mains powered and have a back up battery of adequate capacity.

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

3.3
alarm test valve
valve through which water may be discharged to test the operation of alarm system
3.4
backflow prevention device
type EA verifiable single check valve which permits water to flow from upstream but not in the reverse
direction
3.5
cistern
stored water supply with cover
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Water Regulations [1], [2], [3] which cover requirements for cisterns.

3.6
concealed sprinkler
recessed sprinkler with a cover plate that disengages when heat is applied
3.7
domestic occupancy
individual dwelling for occupation as a single family unit used or constructed or adapted to be used wholly
or principally for human habitation, such as individual dwelling houses, individual flats, maisonettes and
transportable homes, with a maximum individual room size of 40 m2
NOTE In the preparation of this standard it was thought necessary to reconsider areas of sprinkler operation and this will be subject
to further investigation.

3.8
experienced sprinkler contractor
contractor who is suitably qualified and experienced and has independent documentation providing
evidence of this
3.9
fire pump
pump that is automatically operated in the event of a fire which supplies water to a sprinkler system from
a water storage facility or from a mains supply
3.10
fusible link sprinkler
sprinkler which opens when an element provided for that purpose melts
3.11
glass bulb sprinkler
sprinkler which opens when a liquid-filled glass bulb bursts
3_12
pendent sprinkler
sprinkler in which the nozzle directs the water downwards
3.13
priority demand valve
valve for isolating the supply to the domestic service in the event of sprinkler operation
3.14
quick response sprinkler
sprinkler with quick response temperature sensing element which operates to allow water to discharge in
accordance with BS EN 12259-1
3.15
recessed sprinkler
sprinkler in which all or part of the heat sensing element is above the lower plane of the ceiling

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

3.16

residential pattern sprinkler

sprinkler which gives an outward
residential occupancy

and downward

water discharge,

suitable

for use in domestic and

3.17

residential occupancy
occupancy for multiple occupation not exceeding 20 m in height, with a maximum individual room size
of 180 m2, such as apartments,
residential homes, houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs), blocks of flats,
boarding houses, aged persons homes, nursing homes, residential rehabilitation
accommodation and
dormitories
NOTE 1 Where multiple occupation buildings exceed 20 m in height, special circumstances need to be considered and the authority
having jurisdiction should be consulted. This matter is receiving the attention of the relevant BSI committee with a view to issuing
an amendment.
NOTE 2 This occupancy classification is not suitable for secure accommodation, asylum centres and large, open, communal
dormitories or equivalent hazards.

3.18

room
area, enclosed by walls and a ceiling, which may have openings to an adjoining room or adjoining rooms
provided such openings have a lintel depth of at least 200 mm
3.19

service pipe
pipe supplying
water supply

water from a water supply to any premises

that are subject to water pressure

from that

3.20

sidewall pattern sprinkler

sprinkler

which gives an outward

half paraboloid

pattern

of water discharge

3.21

stop valve
manually operated valve for controlling
in the open position

the flow of water into the system pipework which is normally kept

3.22

subsidiary alternate system

portion of a sprinkler

system which is capable of being charged with air or water

3.23

upright sprinkler
sprinkler

in which the nozzle directs the water upwards

3.24

wet pipe system

sprinkler

system which is designed to be permanently

charged with water

4 Consultation
Where a sprinkler system or an extension or alteration
or existing buildings, the following should be consulted
early stage:

(see Guidelines for the supply of water to fire sprinkler systems [4]);

a) the water undertaker

b) the fire authority;

to a sprinkler system is being considered for new

and, where necessary, their approval sought at an

c) the building control body;

d) the insurer(s)

10

of the dwelling and dwelling contents.

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

5 Design
5.1Water supplies
5.1.1 Types of supply
Sprinkler systems should be connected to one of the following water supplies:
a) a mains water supply;
b) pressure tank or vessel;
c) automatic fire pump drawing from a stored water facility;
d) automatic fire pump drawing water from a mains water supply or an elevated storage cistern;
e) gravity fed stored water system.
5.1.2 Supply characteristics
r

0.

When planning to use a mains water supply to feed a sprinkler system, prior to installation the minimum
mains pressure and capacity should be ascertained in conjunction with the water undertaker.
When using an existing service pipe the pressure should be checked and flow rate ascertained at the point
of entry to the building.
5.2 Design and installation criteria
5.2.1 System design and installation
The system should be designed and installed by an experienced sprinkler contractor.
5.2.2 System type
A sprinkler system should be a wet pipe system, i.e. one that is permanently charged with water>
Precautions should be taken to prevent the water freezing (see 6.1.4).
5.2.3 Extent of sprinkler protection
Sprinkler protection should be provided in all parts of the dwelling, with the permitted exception.ofs

-./ t").

- bathrooms with a floor area of less than 5 m2;

- cupboards and pantries with a floor area of less than 2 m2 and where the least dimension does not
exceed 1 m and the walls and ceilings are covered with non-combustible or limited-combustible=
materials;
- non communicating, attached buildings such as garages, boiler houses, etc.;
- crawl spaces.
NOTE 1 "Non communicating" means separated from the protected premises by a 30 min fire resisting construction inaceordance
with BS 476 or equivalent European Standard.
NOTE 2

Certain authorities may require 60 min fire resisting construction.

NOTE 3

Lift shafts are not excluded from protection.

5.2.4 Hydraulic calculations

Calculation of pressure losses in pipework should be carried out in accordance with Annex A to determine
the recommended pipe sizes to meet the performance recommendations in 5.2.5 with the water pressure
and flow rate at the lowest flow/pressure characteristics anticipated. Where systems are to be directly
mains fed, the size of service pipe to the premises that will feed the sprinkler system should be agreed with
the water supplier.

BSI 31 January 2005

11

BS 9251:2005

5.2.5 System flow rate

5.2.5.1 Sprinkler flow rates
A sprinkler system should be capable of providing flow rates at the sprinklers of not less than:
a) for domestic occupancies:
1) 60 l/min through any single sprinkler; or

2) 42 lImin through each of two sprinklers operating simultaneously in a single room;

b) for residential occupancies:
1) 60 lImin through any single sprinkler; or

2) 42 lImin for each sprinkler operating simultaneously up to a maximum of four sprinklers in a single
room.
5.2.5.2 Residential pattern sprinklers
Where residential pattern sprinklers are used in domestic occupancies, the system should be capable of
providing flow rates to permit one or two sprinklers to operate simultaneously at not less than the flow
rates given in 5.2.5.1a) or their approval listed discharge performance, whichever is the greater, plus
any flow for alarm purposes (see 5.3.3).

Where residential pattern sprinklers are used in residential occupancies, the system should be capable of
providing flow rates to permit up to four sprinklers to operate simultaneously at not less than the flow rates
given in 5.2.5.1b) or their approval listed discharge requirements, whichever is the greater, plus any
flow for alarm purposes (see 5.3.3).
5.2.5.3 Minimum

operating pressure

The minimum operating pressure at any sprinkler should not be less than 0.5 bar.
5.2.6 Flow rate requirements for mains water supply connections
Where the mains water supply connection serves only the sprinkler system, the system should be capable
of providing flow rates at the sprinkler heads in accordance with the recommendations of 5.2.5.
Where the mains water supply connection serves both the sprinkler system and the domestic or residential
occupancy supply, the sprinkler system should be capable of providing flow rates at the sprinkler heads in
accordance with the recommendations of 5.2.5 by:
a) the operation of an automatic priority demand valve; or
b) for domestic occupancies, the flow rate recommended in 5.2.5 plus at least 2511min;

c) for residential occupancies, the flow rate recommended in 5.2.5 plus the design demand for the
residency but not less than 50 lImin.
When relying only on a direct mains water supply only 85 % of the water pressure and flow rates at the
lowest flow/pressure characteristics anticipated should be allowed in the calculations.
Where the connection to the mains water supply serves more than one dwelling, the system should be
capable of providing the flow rates at the sprinkler heads in accordance with the recommendations of 5.2.5
at times of simultaneous peak demand from all of the dwellings concerned.

12

BSI 31 January 2005

.-

BS 9251:2005

5.2.7 Stored water capacity

Where a water storage cistern is used for both sprinkler and domestic purposes, the stored volume should
be at least 110 % of that recommended for the sprinkler system and the domestic connection should be
taken above the level of stored water calculated for the sprinkler system and for:
a) domestic occupancies should be calculated on the basis of maintaining actual pressures and flows
for 10 min to whichever is the greater of:
1) single operating sprinkler situated in the hydraulically most favourable position;
2) a pair of operating sprinklers in a single room situated in the hydraulically most favourable position;

b) residential occupancies should be calculated on the basis of maintaining actual pressures and flows
for 30 min to whichever is the greatest of:
- any combination of up to the maximum design number of sprinklers (not greater than four in
number), operating in a single room, situated in the hydraulically most favourable position.
Where the cistern provides a totally dedicated water supply for sprinklers, a low level alatm should be
provided and the amount of stored water can be calculated allowing for the proven rate of infill from the
water main providing the reduced amount of stored water, should be at least 60 % of the amount calculated
without infill.
5.2.8 Fire pump
Where a pump is used to ensure the recommendations of 5.2.5 are met it should be:
a) located such that it is unlikely to be affected by a fire;
b) located where the temperature will be maintained above freezing;
c) protected electrically by suitable fusing;
d) protected against the effects of fire;
e) of sufficient capacity to ensure the recommendations of 5.2.5 are met;
f) suitably designed and manufactured

such that testing is needed at not more than annual intervals;

g) operated automatically on demand and require manual shut down.

5.2.9 Sprinkler coverage and location
5.2.9.1 General
Sprinklers should be installed in accordance with the supplier's instructions but not contravene the
recommendations of this standard.
5.2.9.2 Sprinkler spacing
The maximum area protected by each sprinkler should be in accordance with its approved listing
performance or 15 m2, whichever is the lesser, and sprinklers should not be more than 4 m apart nor more
than 2 m from any wall or partition. The distance between sprinklers within a room should not be less
than 2 m.
5.2.9.3 Sprinkler positioning
Sprinklers should be positioned in accordance with the following recommendations.
a) Pendent and upright, residential and domestic sprinklers should have heat sensitive elements below
the ceiling but not more than 100 mm below the ceiling.
b) Sidewall sprinklers should have heat sensitive elements within 100 mm to 150 mm below the ceiling.
c) The heat sensitive elements of recessed and concealed residential sprinklers should be positioned in
accordance with the supplier's instructions.
d) The whole of the floor area and the-walls from the floor up to 0.7 m below the ceiling should be wetted
when the sprinklers are operated.
e) For sloping ceilings sprinklers should be positioned in accordance with the supplier's instructions.

BSI 31 January 2005

13

BS 9251:2005

f) The sensitivity and discharge pattern of sprinklers should not be adversely affected by obstructions

such as constructional beams or light fittings or other sprinkler heads.

g) The potential for a shielded fire to develop should be taken into account.
h) Sprinklers are not less than 50 mm from any wall or partition.
NOTE

Concealed and recessed sprinklers may be used with the approval of the authority having jurisdiction.

5.3 Components
5.3.1 Sprinklers
5.3.1.1 General
Sprinklers should be of pendent, upright, sidewall, recessed or concealed types, suitable for service in
residential and domestic application.
Sprinklers should have a quick response thermal sensitivity rating and be in accordance with DD 252. Only
new equipment should be used. Any sprinkler head removed from a system should be discarded.
5.3.1.2 Size of sprinklers
Sprinklers should be threaded suitable for use with fittings threaded in accordance with ISO 71 and
ISO 65, and BS 21.
5.3.1.3 Temperature rating of sprinklers
Fusible link sprinklers should be colour coded on the frame or sprinkler body; glass bulb sprinklers should
be colour coded by the bulb liquid in accordance with BS EN 12259-l.
The temperature rating of the sprinklers should be:
a) the closest to but at least 20 QCgreater than the highest anticipated ambient temperature of the
location;
b) within the range of 79 QCto 100 QCwhen installed under glazed roofs.
NOTE

For normal conditions in the United Kingdom, the sprinkler temperature ratings will be 57C or 68 -c.

5.3.2 Pipes and fittings

All pipes and fittings should be supplied and installed in accordance with the relevant British Standards.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Water Regulations for requirements for pipes and fittings.

Capillary fittings should be jointed by soldering or brazing with alloys with a melting point of not less
than 230 QCas specified in BS EN 29453.
Copper tube conforming to BS EN 1057 used in underground locations should be R220'(annealed), thick
walled, factory plastic coated tube. In this case, fittings should be manipulative Type B. Brass fittings in
underground locations should be immune to de-zincification.
Plastics and other pipes and fittings should be in accordance with a standard as recognized by the authority
having jurisdiction and suitable for residential and domestic sprinkler systems and should be installed in
accordance with the supplier's instructions.
5.3.3 Valves and alarm devices
5.3.3.1 General
Valves and alarm devices suitable for residential and domestic systems should be installed in accordance
with the supplier's instructions.
5.3.3.2 Alarm devices
The system should have one of the following alarm devices which should be triggered by the flow of water
to at least one sprinkler:
- an electrically operated flow switch connected to an audible alarm;
- a mechanically driven alarm taking the flow into account in the hydraulic calculations. or

14

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

The system should have:

a) at least one internal audible alarm which can be easily heard in all parts of the building or dwelling,
as appropriate; and
b) an audio-visual alarm positioned externally in a prominent position and clearly labelled "FIRE
ALARM".
NOTE Means of escape criteria in flats and maisonettes is normally based on a defend in situ criteria and the alarm
arrangements should be in accordance with the authority having jurisdiction.

5.3.3.3 Valves
The system should have the following (see Figure 4):
a) an appropriate back-flow prevention device to prevent mains water contamination;
b) a stop valve, of the full bore lever type to isolate sprinkler pipework from mains water supply;
NOTE 1 The valve should be locked in the open position to prevent accidental interruption of the water supply to the sprinkler
system.

c) where appropriate, a priority demand valve;

d) an alarm test valve;
NOTE 2 A test facility should be provided at the end of the hydraulically most remote range pipe on the system consisting of not
less than a 22 mm nominal diameter pipe and quick acting test valve with an outlet nozzle equivalent in size to the smallest
sprinkler in the system.

e) a quick-acting drain and test valve facility fitted at the lowest point of the sprinkler pipework to allow
functional testing and the complete draining of the sprinkler system, suitably sized to check the
appropriate maximum flow rate specified in 5.2.5, but not less than a 22 mm nominal diameter pipe size.

2
f---f)o-

13

-4
11

3-

7Key
1 Pressure gauge
2 To domestic drop off points
3 Priority demand valve (optional)
4 Drain valve
5 Backflow prevention device
6 Stop valve
7 Incoming cold water main
a

Alarm device with

Can be separate.

12+55

I8 Lever operated

fullway stop valve

9 Alarm device"
10 To sprinklers
11 Sprinkler heads
12 Lever operated full way alarm test valve
13 Plug
14 Combined drain and alarm test valve"

s delay to prevent false alarms due to surge.

Figure 4 - Typical sprinkler connection, installation control and morrito rfng details

BSI 31 January 2005

15

BS 9251:2005

5.3.4 Electrically

operated devices

The electrical supply to the fire pumps should be installed in such a way as to minimize the risk of electric 1
supply failure by having a separately fused connection taken after the meter and from the supply side 0
the domestic fuse box, using fire-resisting cable.
In all other instances the electrically operated devices should be capable of carrying out their function i
the event of a complete failure of the mains electrical power supply in accordance with BS 5839-6.

6 Installation, commissioning and documentation

6.1 Installation
6.1.1 General
Sprinkler systems should be installed in accordance with BS 6700.
Bending of copper piping should only be carried out by an approved method in accordance with BS 6700.
NOTE

See also Water Research Centre (WRc)Guides [5].

6.1.2 Feasibility
Before installation begins, the service pipe water supply should be tested to ensure that, when at its lowest
hydraulic characteristic, the recommended flow rate and pressure can be achieved. If the recommended
pressure and flow rate is not achieved the installation should not proceed and the designer should be
consulted.
6.1.3 Pipework
6.1.3.1 Pipe sizes
Pipe sizes should be determined by hydraulic calculations (see Annex A).
6.1.3.2 Pipework support (see Annex B)
Only metallic pipe fixings should be used. Batons and lock type clips should be fitted in close proximity to
the sprinkler heads to ensure no movement occurs which would recoil heads into the ceiling or loft voids.
6.1.3.3 Pipework through structural timbers
Structural timbers should not be notched or bored in such a way that the integrity of the structure is
compromised [see Building Regulations 2000 (applicable to England and Wales)] [6], the Technical
Standards Scotland 1990 [7] and the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 [8] and BS 6700].
6.1.4 Frost protection

(see 5.2.2)

It is essential that any water filled pipework which may be subjected to low temperatures should be
protected against freezing at all times.
NOTE 1 Electrical trace heating and/or lagging or antifreeze solutions may be used.
NOTE 2 Water Regulations [1], [2], [3] forbid the employment of anti-freeze solutions where the system is directly connected to a
mains water supply.
NOTE 3 Plastics pipe and fittings may be protected using glycerin based anti-freeze solutions. Glycolbased anti-freeze solutions
should not be used in plastic systems.

6.2 Commissioning
6.2.1 Leakage testing
The sprinkler system should be tested for leakage by filling with water at the normal working pressure and
checking visually for leaks at each joint. Any leaks found should be repaired.
The water supply to the system should be isolated and the system should be tested to a minimum of 1.5
times working pressure or 12 bar, whichever is the lesser, for 1 h. If the system fails to maintain pressure
the leak should be found and corrected and this test repeated.

16

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

6.2.2 Hydraulic

test

The sprinkler system should be tested to ensure that at least the flow rate specified in 5.2.5 can be achieved
at the required pressure at the alarm test valve [see 5.3.3.3d)]. If this flow rate at the required pressure
cannot be achieved, the system should not be approved for use until the system has been corrected and the
test given in this clause has been passed. The installer and the designer should correct the system.
6.2.3 Alarm test
The alarm (and/or repeaters) should be heard in all habitable rooms in the premises protected by sprinklers
coupled to the alarm device being tested, subject to the recommendations of 5.3.3.2. The stated audibility
should be achieved when there is a water flow of not more than 60 lImin through the alarm device under
test.
6.2.4 Compliance
On satisfactory completion of the commissioning tests by the experienced sprinkler contractor a certificate
should be issued in accordance with 6.3.2b).
6.3 Documentation
6.3.1 Presentation
For new and extended systems all drawings and documents should bear as a minimum details of the system
which should include:
a) the address and location ofthe premises or, in the case of transportable homes, the chassis or reference
number;
b) the name and address of the approved contractor;
c) the name of the designer;
d) the date of installation.
6.3.2 Documents
The following information should be provided by the approved contractor to the owner or occupier:
a) details of the authorities consulted and any response to consultation;
b) a general description of the system and a statement of compliance with this British Standard in the
form of a signed Compliance Certificate, together with any deviations agreed with the authority having
jurisdiction and justification for the deviation;
c) a layout drawing of the premises, which includes as-fitted details, showing the extent of the
installation together with a set of the hydraulic calculations;
d) details of the water supplies which, if a town main, should include pressure and flow rate data at a
specified location for the commissioned installation, with the time and date of the test;
e) an inspection and routine checking programme for the system;
NOTE

The programme should include instructions on the actions to be taken in respect of operation of the system, faults, etc.

f) a list of components used, identifying supplier's name and parts reference number;

g) a 24 h emergency telephone number which can be used to obtain assistance;

h) a Log Book containing inspection, checking and maintenance documents, detailing a regular
programme to be undertaken by an approved contractor;
i) essential information for the user e.g. "do not paint, cover or in any way impede the operation of a
sprinkler head", "no modification should be made to any sprinkler equipment except in accordance with
this British Standard".
The owner or occupier should also be supplied with spare sprinkler heads of the same design as those used
in the system together with an appropriate tool for fitting them. In the event that replacement of a head is
required these spare heads should not be fitted by the owner or occupier but should be fitted by a suitably
qualified and experienced sprinkler contractor.

BSI 31 January 2005

17

BS 9251:2005

7 Maintenance
7.1 Responsibility
The system should be inspected and tested in accordance with 7.2.
7.2 Inspecting and testing
The sprinkler system should be subject to an annual inspection and test by a suitably qualified and
experienced sprinkler contractor to ensure the following:
a) the sprinklers' heat sensing capacity and their spray pattern is not impeded;
b) the minimum flow rate recommended in this British Standard is achieved at the drain and test valve;
c) the alarm is effective and can be heard in all parts of the building;
d) the system has not been modified except in accordance with this British Standard.
The system should be tested as follows.
- The system should be visually inspected wherever possible for leaks. Should a leak be suspected the
pipework should be pressure tested to 1.5 times working pressure for 1 h.
- Both internal and external alarms should be left active so that their satisfactory operation can be
audibly verified.
- The sprinkler system should be flow tested for 1min at the drain and test valve or the highest test
point of the installation pipework and ensure that the conditions of 5.2.5 are met.
- Stop valves should be exercised to ensure free movement.
- Where trace heating is installed check operation.
- The person carrying out the inspection should complete and sign the Log Book as recommended in 7.3.
7.3 LogBook
The Log Book referred to in 6.3.2h) should be completed giving details of:
a) the date of inspection;
b) details of all tests conducted and their results;
c) confirmation or otherwise of the sprinkler systems operational status;
d) confirmation or otherwise of the alarm systems operational status;
e) details of any recommendations or comments.

18

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

Annex A (normative)
Hydraulic calculation
All pipework downstream of the alarm valve should be sized by hydraulic calculation.
a) The difference in static pressure between two connected points in a sprinkler system is given by the
following formula:
static pressure difference, p = 0.1 h (bar)

(AI)

where
h is the vertical distance between the two points in metres (m).
b) The pressure loss due to pipe friction should be calculated from the Hazen-Williams formula (A2) or
taken from the appropriate tables, Table AI, Table A2 and Table A3.
5

6,05 xl0

C 1,85 X d 4,87

Q185
'

(A 2)

where
p

=
=

C
L

=
=

pressure loss in pipe in bar;

flow rate through pipe in litres per minute (lfmin);
mean bore of pipe in millimetres (mm);
a constant for pipe material (see Table A.4);
equivalent length of straight pipe, bends and fittings in metres (m).

Table A.1 - Pressure loss in 1 m of copper pipe for a water flow rate of 60 l/rnirr=Tube size
mm

22
28
35
42
54

Mean size
mm

20.2
26.2
32.6
39.6
51.6

Pressure loss
bar

0.0554
0.0156
0.0054
0.0021
0.0006

Table A.2 - Pressure loss in 1 m of CPVC pipe for a water flow rate of 60 l/mins
Nominal tube size

I.D.

mm

mm

20
25
32
40
50
65
80

BSI 31 January 2005

22.20
27.97
35.41
40.59
50.88
61.54
74.93

Pressure loss
bar

0.0314
0.0102
0.0032
0.0017
0.0005
0.0002
0.0001

19

BS 9251:2005

Table A.3 - Pressure loss in 1 m of steel pipe for a water flow rate of 60 lImin
Nominal tube size

Pressure loss
bar

I.D.

mm

mm

21.63

20
25
32
40
50
65
80

0.0529
0.0170
0.0044
0.0021
0.0007
0.0002
0.0001

27.31
35.97
41.86
52.98
68.67
80.68

The values of C shown in Table A.4 should be used in sprinkler system calculations.
Table AA - Values of C for steel, copper and CPVC
Material

Steel
Copper
CPVC

120
140
150

c) Equivalent lengths of pipe for pulled bends in copper tube (in metres of pipe)
Frictional pressure loss in copper pipework bends where the direction of water flow is changed
through 45 or more should be calculated using (A.3).
Equivalent length

= 7.65 x 1O-3QO.15do.

(A.3)

87

where
Q = the water flow rate in litres per minute (limin);
d

= the tube

bore in millimetres (mm).

The equivalent length of pipe for the pressure loss due to the bend for a water flow rate of 60 lImin is as
given in Table A.5.
Table A.5 - The equivalent length of copper pipe for the pressure loss due to the bend for a
water flow rate of 60 lImin

22
28
35
42
54

20

Tube size

Mean size

mm

mm

20.2
26.2
32.6
39.6
51.6

Equivalent length
m

0.1932
0.2423
0.2930
0.3470
0.4369

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

d) Pressure loss equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Equivalent lengths of copper, steel and CPVC pipe for fittings are given in Table A6, Table A 7
and Table A8.
Table A.6 -

Copper: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)

Nominal diameter

Fittings

mm

22

Tee run
Tee branch
90 capillary elbow
90 compression elbow

35

28

0.068
1.00
0.49
0.74

0.10
1.40

0.13
1.80

0.68
1.00

0.91
1.30

42

54

0.16
2.30
1.10
1.50

0.22
3.10
1.70
2.10

Table A.7 - Steel: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Nominal diameter

Fittings

mm

20

90 screwed elbow
90 welded elbow
45 screwed elbow
Standard screwed tee or cross
Table A.8 -

0.63
0.30
0.34
1.25

25

0.77
0.36
0.40
1.54

32

40

1.04
0.49
0.55
2.13

50

65

1.22

1.46

1.89

0.56
0.66
2.44

0.69
0.76
2.91

0.88
1.02
3~81

CPVC: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of"prgQ)~.

Fittings

Nominal diameter
mm

20

Tee run
Tee branch
90 elbow
45 elbow
Coupling

BSI 31 January 2005

0.30
0.90
2.10
0.30
0.30

32

25

0.30
1.50
2.10
0.30
0.30

0.30
1.80
2.40
0.60
0.30

40

0.30
2.40
2.70
0.60
0.30

50

0.30
3.00
3.30
0.60
0.30

65

0.60
3.60
3.60
0.90
0.60

80

0.6.0
4.50
3.;90
1.20
0;60

21

BS 9251:2005

Annex B (normative)
Pipework support
Sprinkler system pipework should be supported at the intervals given in Table B.1, Table B.2
and Table B.3.
Table B.l- Maximum spacing offixings for copper and stainless steel pipework
Nominal diameter
mm

Horizontal run
m

1.8
1.8
2.4
2.4

22
28
35
42
54

Vertical run
m

2.4
2.4
3.0
3.0
3.0

2.7

Table B.2 - Maximum spacing of fixings for steel pipe work

Nominal diameter
mm

Horizontal run

Vertical run

1.8
2.4
2.4

15
20
25
32
40
50
80

2.4
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.6
3.6
4.5

2.7
3.0
3.0
3.6

Table B.3 - Maximum spacing of fixings for CPVC pipework

Nominal diameter

Vertical run

Horizontal run
m

mm

12
15
22
28
32
40
50
65
80

0.6
0.8
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.05
1.2
1.35
1.5

-,

-:

1.2
1.6
1.6
1.8
2.0
2.1
2.4

I
I

2.7
3.0

CaQJ2-\ c..~,jJ\
~

22

~Q~

BSI 31 January 2005

BS 9251:2005

Bibliography
Standards publications
BS 1710:1984, Specification for and identification
BS 5306-2:1990, Fire extinguishing
sprinkler systems.

installations

BS EN 12845:2003, Fixed firefighting

maintenance.

of pipeline and services.

and equipment on premises - Part 2: Specification for

systems - Automatic

BS EN ISO 9001:2000, Quality management

sprinkler systems - Design, installation

and

systems - Requirements.

Other documents
[1] GREAT BRITAIN. Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2000. London: The Stationery Office.
[2] GREAT BRITAIN. Water Supply (Water Quality) (Scotland) Regulations 2001. Edinburgh:
The Stationery Office.
[3] NORTHERN IRELAND. Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002. Belfast:
The Stationery Office.
[4] FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION. Guidelines for the supply of water to fire sprinkler systems.
Fire Protection Association.
I
[5] WATER RESEARCH CENTRE (WRc plc), WRc Guides. Marlow [Bucks]:

re

plc.

[6] GREAT BRITAIN. Building Regulations 2000. London: The Stationery Office.
[7] GREAT BRITAIN. Building Standards Scotland 1990. Edinburgh: The Stationery Office.
[8] NORTHERN IRELAND. Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000. Belfast: The Stationery Office.
Further reading
BS 1864-2:1983,Cap!illary and compression tube fittings of copper and copper alloy - Part 2: Specification
for capillary and co[preSSion fittings for copper tubes.
'
BS EN 54 (all parts, , Fire detection and fire alarm systems.
BS EN 1254 (all pa I ts), Copper and copper alloys - Plumbing fittings.
LPC Technical Bulletin TB: 1997: 201The Fire Protection Association, 2003.
NFPA 13, Standard for the installation
Association.

Suitable sprinkler components and services. London:

of sprinkler systems. Quincy [MA]:National Fire Protection

NFPA 13D, Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems for one and two family dwellings and mobile
homes. Quincy [MA]:National Fire Protection Association.
NFPA 13R, Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems in residential occupancies up to and including
four stories in height. ~uincy [MA]:National Fire Protection Association.
SHARPE, C., ed. Kempe's Engineers Year-Book, Volumes 1 and 2. 97th Edition. Tonbridge [Kent]: Benn
Business Information Services Limited. 1992.
THE LOSS PREVENTION CERTIFICATION BOARD, List of Approved Fire and Security Products and
Services -A specifier's guide. Watford [Hertfordshire]: BRE Certification Limited.
UL 199, Automatic
UL 1626, Residential

BSI 31 January 2005

sprinklers for fire-protection service. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. 1997.

sprinklers for fire-protection service. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. 1994.

23

BS 9251:2004

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..
~-'
..
--.--.
E
Document:

Our Ref:

Date:

FSH/18/2.0011/05

BS 9251
8th June 2005

Technical Committee FSH/18/2

- Sprinkler Systems

Dear Member
BS 9251 :2005 Potential

error in table B.3

The information overleaf has been received at BSI from International Plastic Systems
Ltd. If the comment is correct, an immediate corrigendum is proposed to address the
errors.
Your comments please by Friday 1st July 2005.
Absence of a response will be taken as your approval to proceed with the corrigendum.
If any member of FSH/18/2 is aware of other errors in the text of BS 9251, please inform
me before the above date, so that they can be considered at the meeting of FSH/18/2 on
iz" July 2005 for addition to the corrigendum if it is progressed.

Yours sincerely

M J Hodson
Secretary to FSH/18/2

(1 )

FSH/18/20011/05

"We have recently checked some of the details contained in BS9251 and regret to
advise that the information contained in "Table B.3 - Maximum spacing of fixings for
CPVC pipework" is incorrect.
The corrected table is as follows:Nominal
Diameter
mm
~

#
22
28
32
40
50
65
80

Horizontal
run m
(existing)

M
M
{hg
Q.,.g

+.tt
+.G-
+.2
~

-ha

Horizontal
run m
(corrected)

Vertical run
m
(existing)

Vertical run
m
(corrected)

+.2

*
1.7
1.8
2.0
2.1
2.4

ffl

2.7
3.0

2.7
3

1.6
1.8
2
2.1
2.4

max.3.0
max.3.0
max.3.0
max.3.0
max.3.0
max.3.0
max.3.0

* Note: CPVC piping is not made

in sizes 12mm or 15mm

The corrected figures are those that are published by all manufacturers of the systems,
and are also the figures that have been adopted during LPCB, UL and FM testing."

(2)

FSH/18/2.0011/05