Current affairs
The Zurich Recognised Technology Methodology (see below) is a tool that can be used to verify all aspects of the proposed or existing watermist systems. Whatever solution is selected for complete building protection, it is vital that only systems using components and equipment approved by a recognised independent testing laboratory, based upon a globally recognised standard or code of practice – based on a suitable independent and robust test protocol installed by trained personnel in accordance with the manufacturer’s system design manual – should be considered as effective for property insurance purposes. It should be noted that, as with other
fixed fire protection systems, insurers may have additional operational criteria to satisfy their requirements for dependability and performance verification, such as power supply connections, water supply stipulations and periodic test facilities, before they accept the complete system for property insurance purposes. Ultimately, whichever system is selected or
chosen for the protection of buildings, it is wise to consult the insurer at the earliest possible stage with details of the proposed system. Most insurers have specialist fire protection engineers, who can be contacted for support and advice about the acceptability of the proposed system for property insurance purposes. The following factors should be verified when assessing proposed or existing watermist systems:
• parameters and limitations of test protocol(s)
•
system design (including hydraulic calculations and cause and effect matrix), installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing requirements
• DIOM • use of appropriate third party listed, approved or certified equipment
• operational requirements (including dedicated low voltage power supply, integrity and route of water supply, battery backup, and periodic test flow)
In conclusion, it is important to remember that, as with all fixed fire protection systems we should always make sure that the watermist system is in service, that it will work, and that it is designed in accordance with the Zurich Recognised Technology Methodology. Importantly, only by being able to answer those three questions with confidence can we trust a fire protection system to be reliable and fit for purpose
Gary Howe is a senior fire protection engineer at Zurich Risk Engineering. For more information, view page 5
Reference
1. LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations 2009 Incorporating BS EN 12845.
FOCUS
www.frmjournal.com DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020
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