Frequently Asked Questions
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Why are sprinklers important for life safety?
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How can we be sure sprinklers will work in a fire?
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What about water damage?
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What about smoke?
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What is the life safety record for sprinklers?
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Aren’t sprinklers unsightly?
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Don’t all the heads go off at once? I’m sure I’ve seen this happening on tv!
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Surely sprinklers create more water damage than the fire and rescue service?
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If sprinklers false alarm, won’t they create a lot of damage?
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How do sprinkler heads work?
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I want to install sprinklers in a new building but I have been advised that the water supply from the local mains is inadequate. Can I still install a sprinkler system?
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What standards do I need to comply with when designing or installing sprinkler systems?
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Does the installation of sprinklers permit ‘tradeoffs’ in respect of requirements regarding escape routes and passive fire protection measures?
Does the installation of sprinklers permit ‘tradeoffs’ in respect of requirements regarding escape routes and passive fire protection measures?
‘Trade-offs’ or trade-ups as they should be more correctly termed, are often appropriate when a building is fitted with a full sprinkler system. Examples of the sort of trade-ups that may be possible subject to the Authority Having Jurisdiction include:
- Increased compartment sizes.
- Increased travel distances for escape routes.
- Reduced fire resistant ratings for structural components
- Reductions in the number of smoke doors and lobbies.
- Acceptance of sprinkler system as alternative compliance for access requirements for the fire and rescue service under Approved Document B5 or the Scottish Technical Handbooks
- Acceptance of open plan living rooms / kitchens in dwellings.
- Accepting non-compliance in the provision of means of escape for attic and loft conversions.
- Insurance premium discounts.