BRITISH STANDARD BS 9251:2005

Sprinkler systems for

residential and
domestic
occupancies —
Code of practice

ICS 13.220.20

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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
Water UK
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
Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

The following BSI references
relate to the work on this
British Standard:
Committee reference FSH/18/2

ISBN 0 580 44816 9

 BS 9251:2005

Contents
Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
Introduction 1
1 Scope 8
2 Normative references 8
3 Terms and definitions 8
4 Consultation 10
5 Design 11
6 Installation, commissioning and documentation 16
7 Maintenance 18
Annex A (normative) Hydraulic calculation 19
Annex B (normative) Pipework support 22
Bibliography 23
Figure 1a) — 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 A.1 — Pressure loss in 1 m of copper pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 l/min 19
Table A.2 — Pressure loss in 1 m of CPVC pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 l/min 19
Table A.3 — Pressure loss in 1 m of steel pipe for a water flow rate
of 60 l/min 20
Table A.4 — Values of C for steel, copper and CPVC 20
Table A.5 — The equivalent length of copper pipe for the pressure loss
due to the bend for a water flow rate of 60 l/min 20
Table A.6 — Copper: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres
of pipe) 21
Table A.7 — Steel: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe) 21
Table A.8 — CPVC: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres
of pipe) 21
Table B.1 — Maximum spacing of fixings for copper and stainless steel
pipework 22
Table B.2 — Maximum spacing of fixings for steel pipework 22
Table B.3 — Maximum spacing of fixings for CPVC pipework 22

© BSI 31 January 2005 i

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 of life 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 Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
Attention is drawn to the requirements of the Water Regulations [1], [2],
[3].

Summary of pages
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.

ii © 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 pipework 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 1a) and Figure 1b),
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 1

2

BS 9251:2005
10

1 Key
1 Sprinkler head
2 Alarm device
3 Check valve
4 Householder’s isolation valve
5 Domestic isolation valve
6 Pressure gauge
7 Drain/test valve (plugged)
20 8 Priority demand valve
9 Booster pump
10 Inspector’s test point (plugged)
16
7 11 Water undertaker’s stop valve
2 14 12 Isolation valve
8 17 13 P Pressure switch
3 14 Drain valve
3 5 15 Water meter
6 Above ground water supply
11 16 Underground mains water
4 17 supply
18 Sprinkler specialist
19 Water undertaker
18 20 Back edge of the kerb

19
© BSI 31 January 2005

NOTE 1 Employing one combined system for drinking water and sprinkler water.
NOTE 2 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.
NOTE 3 Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.
Figure 1a) — Typical mains fed sprinkler system installation control details (unmetered supply)
© BSI 31 January 2005

10

1
Key
1 Sprinkler head
2 Alarm device
3 Check valve
4 Householder’s isolation valve
5 Domestic isolation valve
6 Pressure gauge
7 Drain/test valve (plugged)
8 Priority demand valve
20 Booster pump
9
10 Inspector’s test point (plugged)
7
16 11 Water undertaker’s stop valve
2 Isolation valve
14 12
17 13 P Pressure switch
8 14 Drain valve
3 5 Water meter
15
6 15 Above ground water supply
4 11 16 Underground mains water
17 supply
3 18 Sprinkler specialist
11 19 Water undertaker
20 Back edge of the kerb

18
19

BS 9251:2005
NOTE 1 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.
NOTE 2 Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.
Figure 1b) — Typical mains fed sprinkler system installation control details — For new buildings (metered domestic supply)
3
4

BS 9251:2005
10

1
Key
1 Sprinkler head
2 Alarm device
3 Check valve
Householder’s isolation valve
4
Domestic isolation valve
5
Pressure gauge
6
12 7 Drain/test valve (plugged)
3 20 8
Priority demand valve

13 9
Booster pump
Inspector’s test point
7 10 (plugged)
2 16 11 Water undertaker’s stop
valve
9 3 8 12 Isolation valve
6 13 P
Pressure switch
3 17 14 Drain valve
14 3
6 5 15 Water meter
11 16 Above ground water supply
Underground mains water
17 supply
4 18 Sprinkler specialist
19 Water undertaker

18 20 Back edge of the kerb

19
© BSI 31 January 2005

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)
© BSI 31 January 2005

10

1
Key
1 Sprinkler head
2 Alarm device
3 Check valve
4 Householder’s isolation
valve
5 Domestic isolation valve
6 Pressure gauge
12 7 Drain/test valve (plugged)
3 20 8 Priority demand valve
13
P

9 Booster pump
Inspector’s test point
7 10 (plugged)
2 16 11 Water undertaker’s stop
valve
9 3 14 12 Isolation valve
6 17 13 P

Pressure switch
8 14
14 5 Drain valve
3 15 Water meter
3 15 Above ground water supply
4 11 16
6 Underground mains water
17 supply
3 18 Sprinkler specialist
11
19 Water undertaker
20 Back edge of the kerb

18

19

BS 9251:2005
NOTE 1 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.
NOTE 2 Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.
Figure 2b) — Typical in line fire pump fed sprinkler system installation control details (metered domestic supply)
5
6

BS 9251:2005
10

1
Key
Sprinkler head
1 Alarm device
6 2 Check valve
Householder’s isolation
3
7 valve
4 Domestic isolation valve
13 5
2 Pressure gauge
6 Drain/test valve (plugged)
14 7 Priority demand valve
1 20 8
3 2
Booster pump
3 9 Inspector’s test point
10 (plugged)
12 9 16
4
5 Water undertaker’s stop
6 11 valve
7
12 14 8
12 Isolation valve
13 P Pressure switch
9
23 3 10 14
Drain valve
3 5 11 Water meter
12 17 15 Above ground water
13 supply
14
P

11 14 16
4 15 Underground mains water
16
17 supply
18 Sprinkler specialist
17
19 Water undertaker
20 Back edge of the kerb
23 Sprinkler system stored
18 water

19
© BSI 31 January 2005

NOTE 1 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.

NOTE 2 Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.
Figure 3a) — Typical stored water and fire pump fed sprinkler system installation control details (unmetered supply)
© BSI 31 January 2005

10
1 Key
Sprinkler head
1 Alarm device
2 Check valve
Householder’s isolation
3 valve
4 Domestic isolation valve
5 Pressure gauge

7 6 6 Drain/test valve (plugged)

13 7
Priority demand valve
Booster pump
2 8
Inspector’s test point
9 (plugged)
14 20 10 Water undertaker’s stop
valve
3 11 Isolation valve
12 Pressure switch
12 9 16 13 P
Drain valve
14 Water meter
14 15 Above ground water
12 supply
16 Underground mains water
23 5 supply
3 15 17 18 Sprinkler specialist
3 19 Water undertaker
4 17
14 11 20 Back edge of the kerb
23 Sprinkler system
3 stored water

4
18 19

BS 9251:2005
NOTE 1 Fluid category 2 water supply no additives.
NOTE 2 Check valve to comply with fluid category 2 no additives.
Figure 3b) — Typical stored water and fire pump fed sprinkler system installation control details (metered domestic supply)
7
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 joints are made on the
threads (metric dimensions).
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 of services supplying water for
domestic use within buildings and their curtilages.
DD 252, Components for residential sprinkler systems — Test methods and specification for residential
sprinklers.
BS EN 1057, Copper and copper alloys — Seamless round copper tubes for water and gas in sanitary and
heating applications.
BS EN 12259-1, Fixed firefighting systems — Components for sprinkler and water spray systems —
Part 1: Sprinklers.
BS EN 29453 (ISO 9453), Soft solder alloys — 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
electrical or mechanical system audible internally and externally, with a built-in precaution to avoid
spurious alarms
NOTE An electrical system should be mains powered and have a back up battery of adequate capacity.

8 © 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 9

BS 9251:2005

3.16
residential pattern sprinkler
sprinkler which gives an outward and downward water discharge, suitable for use in domestic and
residential occupancy
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 from a water supply to any premises that are subject to water pressure from that
water supply
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 the flow of water into the system pipework which is normally kept
in the open position
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 to a sprinkler system is being considered for new
or existing buildings, the following should be consulted and, where necessary, their approval sought at an
early stage:
a) the water undertaker (see Guidelines for the supply of water to fire sprinkler systems [4]);
b) the fire authority;
c) the building control body;
d) the insurer(s) of the dwelling and dwelling contents.

10 © BSI 31 January 2005

 BS 9251:2005

5 Design
5.1 Water 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
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 of:
— 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 in accordance
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 l/min through each of two sprinklers operating simultaneously in a single room;
b) for residential occupancies:
1) 60 l/min through any single sprinkler; or
2) 42 l/min 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 25 l/min;
c) for residential occupancies, the flow rate recommended in 5.2.5 plus the design demand for the
residency but not less than 50 l/min.
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 alarm 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 7-1 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 12259-1.
The temperature rating of the sprinklers should be:
a) the closest to but at least 20 °C greater than the highest anticipated ambient temperature of the
location;
b) within the range of 79 °C to 100 °C when installed under glazed roofs.
NOTE For normal conditions in the United Kingdom, the sprinkler temperature ratings will be 57 °C 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 °C as 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 13

4 12
11
9
3 1 5
10
6

14
7 8

Key
1 Pressure gauge 8 Lever operated fullway stop valve
2 To domestic drop off points 9 Alarm devicea
3 Priority demand valve (optional) 10 To sprinklers
4 Drain valve 11 Sprinkler heads
5 Backflow prevention device 12 Lever operated fullway alarm test valve
6 Stop valve 13 Plug
7 Incoming cold water main 14 Combined drain and alarm test valveb
a
Alarm device with 12 +25
0 s delay to prevent false alarms due to surge.
b
Can be separate.
Figure 4 — Typical sprinkler connection, installation control and monitoring 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 electrical
supply failure by having a separately fused connection taken after the meter and from the supply side of
the domestic fuse box, using fire-resisting cable.
In all other instances the electrically operated devices should be capable of carrying out their function in
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. Glycol based 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 l/min 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 of the 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 1 min 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 Log Book
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) (A.1)

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 (A.2) or
taken from the appropriate tables, Table A.1, Table A.2 and Table A.3.

6,05 × 10 5
p = × L × Q 1,85
C ×d
1,85 4 ,87
(A.2)

where
p = pressure loss in pipe in bar;
Q = flow rate through pipe in litres per minute (l/min);
d = mean bore of pipe in millimetres (mm);
C = a constant for pipe material (see Table A.4);
L = 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/min
Tube size Mean size Pressure loss
mm mm bar
22 20.2 0.055 4
28 26.2 0.015 6
35 32.6 0.005 4
42 39.6 0.002 1
54 51.6 0.000 6

Table A.2 — Pressure loss in 1 m of CPVC pipe for a water flow rate of 60 l/min
Nominal tube size I.D. Pressure loss
mm mm bar
20 22.20 0.031 4
25 27.97 0.010 2
32 35.41 0.003 2
40 40.59 0.001 7
50 50.88 0.000 5
65 61.54 0.000 2
80 74.93 0.000 1

© BSI 31 January 2005 19

BS 9251:2005

Table A.3 — Pressure loss in 1 m of steel pipe for a water flow rate of 60 l/min
Nominal tube size I.D. Pressure loss
mm mm bar
20 21.63 0.052 9
25 27.31 0.017 0
32 35.97 0.004 4
40 41.86 0.002 1
50 52.98 0.000 7
65 68.67 0.000 2
80 80.68 0.000 1
The values of C shown in Table A.4 should be used in sprinkler system calculations.

Table A.4 — Values of C for steel, copper and CPVC

Material C
Steel 120
Copper 140
CPVC 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 × 10p3Q0.15d0.87 (A.3)
where
Q = the water flow rate in litres per minute (l/min);
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 l/min 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 l/min
Tube size Mean size Equivalent length
mm mm m
22 20.2 0.193 2
28 26.2 0.242 3
35 32.6 0.293 0
42 39.6 0.347 0
54 51.6 0.436 9

20 © 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 A.6, Table A.7
and Table A.8.

Table A.6 — Copper: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Fittings Nominal diameter
mm
22 28 35 42 54
Tee run 0.068 0.10 0.13 0.16 0.22
Tee branch 1.00 1.40 1.80 2.30 3.10
90° capillary elbow 0.49 0.68 0.91 1.10 1.70
90° compression elbow 0.74 1.00 1.30 1.50 2.10

Table A.7 — Steel: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Fittings Nominal diameter
mm
20 25 32 40 50 65
90° screwed elbow 0.63 0.77 1.04 1.22 1.46 1.89
90° welded elbow 0.30 0.36 0.49 0.56 0.69 0.88
45° screwed elbow 0.34 0.40 0.55 0.66 0.76 1.02
Standard screwed tee or cross 1.25 1.54 2.13 2.44 2.91 3.81

Table A.8 — CPVC: equivalent lengths of pipe for fittings (in metres of pipe)
Fittings Nominal diameter
mm
20 25 32 40 50 65 80
Tee run 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.60 0.60
Tee branch 0.90 1.50 1.80 2.40 3.00 3.60 4.50
90° elbow 2.10 2.10 2.40 2.70 3.30 3.60 3.90
45° elbow 0.30 0.30 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.90 1.20
Coupling 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.60 0.60

© BSI 31 January 2005 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.1 — Maximum spacing of fixings for copper and stainless steel pipework
Nominal diameter Horizontal run Vertical run
mm m m
22 1.8 2.4
28 1.8 2.4
35 2.4 3.0
42 2.4 3.0
54 2.7 3.0

Table B.2 — Maximum spacing of fixings for steel pipework

Nominal diameter Horizontal run Vertical run
mm m m
15 1.8 2.4
20 2.4 3.0
25 2.4 3.0
32 2.7 3.0
40 3.0 3.6
50 3.0 3.6
80 3.6 4.5

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

Nominal diameter Horizontal run Vertical run
mm m m
12 0.6 1.2
15 0.8 1.6
22 0.8 1.6
28 0.9 1.8
32 1.0 2.0
40 1.05 2.1
50 1.2 2.4
65 1.35 2.7
80 1.5 3.0

22 © BSI 31 January 2005

 BS 9251:2005

Bibliography

Standards publications
BS 1710:1984, Specification for and identification of pipeline and services.
BS 5306-2:1990, Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises — Part 2: Specification for
sprinkler systems.
BS EN 12845:2003, Fixed firefighting systems — Automatic sprinkler systems — Design, installation and
maintenance.
BS EN ISO 9001:2000, Quality management 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.
[5] WATER RESEARCH CENTRE (WRc plc), WRc Guides. Marlow [Bucks]: WRc 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 864-2:1983, Capillary and compression tube fittings of copper and copper alloy — Part 2: Specification
for capillary and compression fittings for copper tubes.
BS EN 54 (all parts), Fire detection and fire alarm systems.
BS EN 1254 (all parts), Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings.
LPC Technical Bulletin TB: 1997: 201 — Suitable sprinkler components and services. London:
The Fire Protection Association, 2003.
NFPA 13, Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems. Quincy [MA]: National Fire Protection
Association.
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. Quincy [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 sprinklers for fire-protection service. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. 1997.
UL 1626, Residential sprinklers for fire-protection service. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. 1994.

© BSI 31 January 2005 23

BS 9251:2004

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