If you manage, own, or develop properties in the UK, you will likely know about your responsibilities towards fire safety.
The Fire Sprinkler Installation Process may seem daunting, but when you work alongside expert contractors, you will only need to go through a few simple steps, and let us deal with the technicalities.
At Base, we recognise that installing fire sprinkler systems goes beyond technical expertise; it’s about safeguarding lives, protecting valuable assets, and providing reassurance to our clients.
Our comprehensive fire sprinkler installation process is designed to meet the unique needs of each building, whether it’s a modern structure or a cherished historic site.
Key Takeaways for Fire Sprinkler Installation Process
The basic steps of the process to install fire sprinklers are:
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Consultation & Assessment
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System Planning
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Installation
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Testing & Commissioning
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Annual Inspections & Maintenance
At every step, the support of a specialist Fire Sprinkler Company is crucial to ensure the safety of both the building and the occupants.
From the initial assessment to the final inspection, our team of experts employs industry-leading practices and innovative solutions to deliver a seamless installation experience.
We prioritise compliance with all relevant regulations while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. Our approach is tailored to your specific requirements, ensuring that your fire protection system is both effective and unobtrusive.
In this guide, we take a closer look at the fire sprinkler system installation process and what you can expect when engaging professional fire sprinkler installation contractors like Base Fire Sprinklers.
For new projects, we recommend you submit your plans or drawings to us when you get in touch.
This will allow our first survey to be much more efficient, and speed up the sprinkler installation process.
1
Consultation & Assessment
The process begins with a thorough consultation where we assess your property’s layout, occupancy type, and specific fire risks. Our team will evaluate existing systems and infrastructure to determine the best approach for your fire sprinkler installation. They will also inspect the water supply requirements for the system, the wall and ceiling structure and any other structural elements that could obstruct or delay the installation process.
Following this, the contractor will decide the best placement for sprinkler heads and pipe runs, ensuring the system provides the protection needed for the space.
2
System Planning
After the assessment, the contractor will work together with you to design a sprinkler system that meets your unique requirements. This involves determining the optimum placement for sprinkler heads, choosing the correct piping and materials, offering guidance on the system’s water supply and ensuring the system complies with building control and the existing fire strategy.
Software such as AutoCAD will enable a contractor to demonstrate the positioning of the sprinkler heads in each room to ensure they align with the lighting design where required, following design drawings for a smooth and straightforward installation process. You will then receive the completed sprinkler designs for final approval before any installation work on the project begins.
3
Installation
Once you have given final approval, the installation of your sprinkler system can begin. You should receive pre-installation health and safety documentation at this stage, including risk assessments and method statements. The contractor should carry out the installation process to the highest standard, ensuring minimal disruptions to the property's day-to-day operations if it is in use.
It is crucial to understand that whether the space is commercial or residential, your fire sprinkler system should only be installed by a contractor certified by a reputable body, using only third-party-tested components and software. The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association outlines the standards by which sprinklers should be installed.
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Testing & Commissioning
Following the installation stage, the contractor will thoroughly test all sprinkler components. You will receive all the certifications required by building control, the operating manuals and as-installed drawings of your sprinkler system. In doing so, you can ensure future maintenance will be completed correctly.
Whilst exact testing procedures will depend on the specific builder and type of system installed, thorough fire sprinkler analysis examines the whole system from the water mains to the sprinkler heads and everything between. During testing, you can expect the following to be investigated:
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Alarms: To make sure electrodes, sensors and notification devices function and can alert building occupants of emergencies.
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Pipes: For signs of corrosion or leaks that could undermine integrity.
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Valves: To verify full range of motion and ensure proper activation.
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Pressure: To determine that the system pressure meets the calculated design rates for firefighting capacity.
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Heads: To ensure they have not faced accidental damage or blockage during fitting in a way that would inhibit spray dispersion geometry.
Addressing these issues early on will guarantee the optimum performance of your fire sprinkler system until the next mandatory routine test takes place.
5
Annual Inspections & Maintenance
Routine maintenance is vital to get the maximum longevity and efficacy out of your fire sprinkler system. Following installation, you should receive exhaustive maintenance instructions and schedules to keep your system in top working order and guarantee it always offers the protection required.
About us
The fire sprinkler installation process is a collaborative effort between you and a professional contractor. Choosing a reputable company ensures that your system is installed safely and efficiently, from the initial assessment of your property's layout and fire risks to the design, installation and testing of a customised solution. This partnership guarantees compliance with safety codes and optimisation for your specific needs.
By engaging with experienced fire sprinkler installation contractors, you gain the assurance that your property is well-protected against fire risks. This investment not only enhances the security of your property but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your fire sprinkler system is reliable and effective. With a properly installed and maintained system, you can confidently focus on other important aspects of property management.