British Standards for Fire Sprinkler Systems

Fire sprinkler systems in the UK must comply with British Standards that define how systems are designed, installed, tested and maintained. These standards ensure reliability, performance and long-term safety. At GFS, all systems are installed to the correct BS standard based on building type and risk level.

BS 9251:2021 — Domestic and Residential Properties

BS 9251 covers fire sprinkler systems installed in homes, apartments, HMOs, care homes and residential buildings. It sets requirements for:

  • System design categories based on building height and occupancy

  • Water supply methods, pump options and stored water volumes

  • Pipework materials and installation standards

  • Coverage requirements for rooms and escape routes

  • Testing, commissioning and ongoing maintenance schedules

 

This standard is used for most domestic and residential installations in the UK.

BS EN 12845 — Commercial and High-Risk Buildings

BS EN 12845 applies to commercial, industrial and higher-risk properties. It includes more detailed technical requirements such as:

  • Hazard classifications (LH, OH, HHP, HHS)

  • Pump and tank configurations

  • Hydraulic calculations for higher-risk environments

  • Protection levels for storage and industrial settings

  • System monitoring and fault alarms

 

Systems designed to BS EN 12845 provide increased resilience and are typically required for commercial developments, plant rooms, warehouses and manufacturing facilities.

Why these standards matter

Following the correct BS standard ensures:

  • Full compliance with UK fire regulations

  • Acceptance by building control and insurers

  • Reliable performance in a real fire situation

  • Long-term system safety and easier maintenance

  • Accurate design based on building use and risk category

GFS ensures every fire sprinkler system is designed, installed and maintained to the correct British Standard so clients benefit from a fully compliant and quality-assured installation.

About Us

FAQ's

01427 38 48 70

07503 092 531

T: 01427 38 48 70

M: 07503 092 531

All rights reserved. GFS Doncaster Limited