When it comes to fire safety in buildings, a dry riser system plays a crucial role in containing and controlling fires in multi-storey structures. It serves as a critical lifeline for fire services, providing access to water at higher levels of a building. However, like any safety system, it requires regular maintenance and checks to ensure optimal performance in an emergency. In this article, we’ll explore the recommended frequency for dry riser testing and the essential role of dry riser servicing to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
What Is a Dry Riser System?
Before delving into testing and servicing, it’s important to understand the basics of a dry riser system. A dry riser is a system of pipes installed in buildings over 18 meters tall, designed to carry water from the ground floor to fire fighting points throughout the building. The system remains dry and is only charged with water by the fire brigade when needed. This makes it a vital component in multi-storey fire safety strategies.
Why Is Dry Riser Testing Crucial?
Dry riser systems must be functional when emergencies arise, which makes dry riser testing a critical aspect of building safety. A failure in the system can have catastrophic consequences, putting lives and property at risk. Regular testing ensures that all components of the dry riser system are operational and ready for immediate use. These tests help identify leaks, blockages, or any degradation in the pipes that might hinder the system’s functionality.
How Often Should Dry Riser Testing Be Conducted?
UK regulations require that dry riser systems undergo regular testing and inspection. The frequency of dry riser testing should be at least every six months, as outlined by British Standards BS 9990:2015. This is the minimum requirement to ensure that the system is functional and meets legal fire safety obligations. During these tests, all components, including valves, pipework, and inlets, are examined for any signs of wear or damage.
What Happens During Dry Riser Servicing?
Dry riser servicing involves a comprehensive examination of the entire system to ensure it functions as intended. It goes beyond simple testing by including checks for corrosion, signs of wear, and potential leaks in the piping network. The system’s inlets and outlets are also inspected for proper sealing and integrity. This servicing process helps extend the lifespan of the system while ensuring that it remains compliant with safety regulations. Without regular servicing, the system could be compromised, potentially rendering it useless when it is most needed.
Why Is Twice-Yearly Dry Riser Testing Important?
Conducting dry riser testing twice a year, as mandated by the BS 9990 standard, ensures that potential issues are caught early. Given the critical role that dry risers play in firefighting efforts, bi-annual testing helps avoid unexpected failures. These checks ensure that all aspects of the system, including connections, pressure, and functionality, are in working order. This proactive approach helps maintain a building’s safety compliance and provides peace of mind that emergency systems will work effectively when needed.
What Are the Consequences of Skipping Dry Riser Testing?
Failing to conduct regular dry riser testing and servicing can have serious consequences. For one, building owners could face legal penalties for non-compliance with fire safety regulations. Beyond the legal ramifications, not maintaining the dry riser system could lead to catastrophic system failures in the event of a fire. This could result in unnecessary damage to property, and most importantly, pose a severe risk to life. Regular testing and servicing, therefore, serve as a vital preventative measure that safeguards both buildings and occupants.
Conclusion
Regular dry riser testing and dry riser servicing are not just legal requirements but also essential components of maintaining a fire-safe building. By adhering to the twice-yearly testing schedule and conducting thorough servicing checks, building owners can ensure their systems remain compliant and ready to perform in an emergency. Durcan Services is dedicated to providing expert testing, servicing, and maintenance of fire safety systems, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your building is prepared for any situation. For more information, visit durcanservices.co.uk.
