Protecting life and property
A Dry Riser installation is a vertical pipe system that allows the Fire & Rescue Service to access a reliable water supply for firefighting purposes on each floor of multi-story buildings. The system plays a critical role in enhancing fire safety and providing effective response capabilities in emergencies by allowing Fire & Rescue Service to quickly connect hoses and access water on upper floors.
A typical installation consists of an Inlet Valve located at ground level on the external wall of the building, this valve is where the Fire & Rescue Service connect a hose to supply water to the installation from a fire engine. It connects to a vertical pipe, usually made of galvanized steel, that runs vertically through the building supplying landing Valves located on each floor, these valves allow firefighters to connect hoses directly to the riser on any floor required.
Regular 6 monthly inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the system remains operational. This includes checking valves, ensuring there are no blockages, and testing the pressure to ensure there are no leaks and that all components function properly. To ensure your system's effectiveness and legal compliance, it must be designed, installed, and routinely tested according to British Standards, specifically BS9990:2015, BS9991, BS9999, and Approved Document B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations (England & Wales).
In the event of a fire, the individual responsible for the building, such as the property owner, landlord, or facilities manager, must provide evidence that the dry riser system has been tested and that a valid certificate of compliance is in place.
BS9990 recommends a visual inspection of the dry riser every six months, and annual testing is a legal requirement.
