Fixed firefighting systems - Automatic residential sprinkler systems - Design, installation and maintenance

This draft European Standard specifies requirements and gives recommendations for the design, installation, water supplies and backflow prevention, commissioning, maintenance and testing of fixed residential fire sprinkler systems in buildings for residential occupancies. This standard is intended for use by those concerned with purchasing, designing, installing, testing, inspecting, approving, operating and maintaining automatic residential sprinkler systems, in order that such equipment will function as intended throughout its life. This standard identifies construction details of buildings which are the minimum necessary for satisfactory performance of residential sprinkler systems complying with this standard. This standard applies to any addition, extension, repair or other modification to the residential sprinkler system. Areas within buildings that contain hazards other than those which are found in a residential occupancy are not covered by this standard. This standard does not cover situations such as arson where fires of a malicious intent may be started in multiple locations simultaneously. Secure accommodation such as correctional or rehabilitation facilities is not covered by this standard. It should not be assumed that the provision of a residential sprinkler system eliminates the need for other means of detecting and fighting fires and it is important to consider the fire precautions in the occupancy as a whole. Structural fire resistance, escape routes, smoke alarms, fire alarm systems, provision of portable extinguishers, training and information all need consideration. National legislation should always be fulfilled and will normally cover the need for other fire precautions in addition to residential sprinkler systems. It is assumed that the building design and construction will be in accordance with local building codes and national requirements. If the residential sprinkler system is to be used to compensate for other fire protection measures, such as walls or doors, building authorities may require the installation of a system with additional measures to enhance performance and/or reliability. Only a competent person should undertake the design, installation, inspection, testing and maintenance of residential sprinkler systems. This standard does not necessarily cover all local or national legislative requirements, which may take precedence over this standard.