Fire Sprinkler Systems

Energy Management Systems are now undertaking the installation of Fire Sprinkler Systems.

To comply with the new 2004 building regulations we are able to design, install & commission these systems.

The current British Standard that is available for guidance is a "Draft for Developement" (DD) namely BS : DD: 251: 2000, Sprinkler Systems for Domestic Occupancies.

Domestic Sprinklers are an advantageous method to compliment smoke detectors not to replace them. Domestic sprinklers are not intended as a replacement for structural fire precautions e.g. fire doors, or internal domestic layouts.

The Building Regulations 2003 requires that sprinklers are fitted to (amongst others) new build: multi-occupancy dwellings: Buildings containing flats: Open plan dwellings ; also to premises undergoing a change of use to a dwelling: flat etc. Consultation with the planning control in conjunction with the " Building regulations" is essential in these areas.

In flats / apartments where the layout is not in accordance with the " Fire Precautions (Flats) Regulations 1966". There may be occasions where a residential sprinkler system can be used as an alternative to the layout requirements; this will be as a last resort and only at the Senior Fire Officers discretion. Flats fitted with residential sprinklers need not fit heat detectors in the kitchens, as required under the " Fire Precautions (Flats) Regulations 1996".

DEFINITIONS

THE BUILDING CONTROL ACT 1991
THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 2003

 

Approved by Tynwald 9th December 2003

Coming into operation 1st March 2004

PART B - FIRE SAFETY

Sprinklers

B7. The buildings shall be fitted with such sprinklers as are reasonably required, having regard to the use to which the building is to be put, to facilitate escape from the building in case of fire.

Requirements B7 applies only to -

(a) multi-occupancy dwelings;

(b) buildings containing flats;

(c) buildings to be used for sheltered housing;

(d) hospitals and nursing homes;

(e) schools;

(f) open-plan dwellings; and

(g) other buildings with compartments over 5,000 cubic metres