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Our systems are fully compliant: Find our more, select Residential or Commercial to learn more
Dear Distributors and Valued Clients,
In light of the recent publication of BS 9991:2024, Fire Safety in the Design, Management, and Use of Residential Buildings, we acknowledge the concerns regarding the omission of explicit references to fire suppression systems other than sprinklers. This development has understandably led to uncertainty within the industry. We want to unequivocally assure you that this does not impede the continued specification and installation of water mist systems in residential projects.
1. Scope of BS 9991:2024: The updated standard focuses exclusively on sprinkler systems, omitting other established fire suppression methods such as water mist, gas, foam, and powder systems. This omission has created ambiguity regarding the applicability of these alternative systems in residential building designs. However, it's important to note that other British Standards, including BS 5306-0:2020 and BS 8458:2015, continue to provide guidance on the selection, design, and installation of various fixed firefighting systems, including water mist systems. Therefore, despite the omissions in BS 9991:2024, these alternative suppression options remain valid and accepted when compliant with the relevant standards.
2. Building Regulations Remain Unchanged: The functional requirements of the Building Regulations 2010 have not been altered. Compliance can be achieved through various means, not solely by adhering to BS 9991:2024
3. Regulatory Confirmation: The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has confirmed that, until further notice, applications for Building Control Approval can reference either BS 9991:2015 or BS 9991:2024 to support their designs. This flexibility ensures that water mist systems remain a viable and compliant option.
Our water mist systems are meticulously designed and installed in strict accordance with BS 8458:2015, ensuring they meet all necessary performance and safety standards. This compliance guarantees that our solutions are both effective and fully aligned with current regulatory requirements.
Implications for Your Projects:
• Uninterrupted Use: You can continue to specify and install SmartMist water mist systems in your residential projects without hesitation.
• Regulatory Assurance: Our systems' compliance with BS 8458:2015, supported by BS 5306-0:2020, ensures they meet the functional requirements of the Building Regulations 2010.
• Design Flexibility: The acknowledgment of multiple standards allows for adaptable design approaches, accommodating the specific needs of each project.
Furthermore, we are actively collaborating with the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to align our products with forthcoming European Norm (EN) standards. A new EN standard, EN 17450-2:2024, titled Fixed Firefighting Systems – Water Mist Systems – Product Characteristics and Test Methods for Nozzles, is scheduled for publication. In anticipation, we have initiated the process to ensure our water mist nozzle components will comply with both EN 17450-2:2024 and selected clauses from BS 8663-1:2019. Notably, SmartMist is among the few residential water mist manufacturers with two systems approved under BS 8458:2015, underscoring our commitment to maintaining the highest safety and performance standards.
We remain steadfast in our dedication to providing top-tier, compliant fire suppression solutions. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact our support team.