Protecting life and property
A Wet Riser installation is an integral fire protection system designed to comply with local fire safety regulations and British Standard BS990:2015.
They are installed in high-rise residential buildings and commercial buildings typically over 50m, and other large structures where immediate access to water is crucial for firefighting efforts and where water pressure can be a concern. They are designed to provide the same flow and pressure of all floors of the building. Unlike dry risers, which remain empty until filled with water, wet risers are continuously charged with water via dedicated pumps and tanks, providing immediate access for firefighters during an emergency. By providing a constant supply of water, wet riser systems enhance fire safety and improve response times, ultimately protecting both occupants and property in emergency situations.
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 wet riser landing valves and tank inlet connections every six months and annual flow testing of the system. The pumps and tanks are also tested and inspected to ensure that sufficient water capacity is always available.
By implementing a comprehensive maintenance plan, building owners can ensure that their wet riser systems are always ready for action when needed.
