FIA signposts new Special Interest Group and system guidance

BS 9994 covers the development, validation, maintenance and lifecycle management of fire strategies alongside competence requirements and guidance on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence.

The Special Interest Group will provide an opportunity for members to discuss the draft, share practical experience and assist in shaping the FIA’s official response to the British Standards Institution. Feedback received will ensure the views of the fire industry are represented during the national consultation.

The Special Interest Group review session takes place on 6 August at 10.00 am and will be conducted online through the Zoom platform. This session is open to FIA members only. Those who wish to register their interest and receive the meeting link need to send an e-mail to [email protected]

Guidance on pipework

The FIA’s guidance to support the safe and professional installation of pipework used in gaseous fixed firefighting systems outlines industry Best Practice for installers and brings together pipework specification information previously contained in BS 5306-4 following the transition to ISO 6183 and BS EN 17966, which don’t include the same level of detail.

In addition, the new guidance complements the BS EN 15004 Series by providing practical guidance on pipework installation.

Pipework plays a critical role in delivering the extinguishing agent from storage containers to discharge nozzles within the protected area. Any failure of the pipework or fittings can have serious consequences, including projectile hazards, the unintended release of extinguishing agents, structural damage caused by pressure effects and reduced system performance during a fire.

Minimising the risks

In order to minimise these risks, the guidance emphasises that installation should only be carried out by trained and competent personnel with experience in gaseous fixed firefighting systems. Installers should also follow manufacturers’ requirements to ensure pipework remains secure and performs as intended during system discharge.

The new guidance provides a valuable reference for contractors and installers, helping to promote consistent and high-quality installations that support the reliability and safety of gaseous fixed firefighting systems.

*Download the guidance online at www.fia.uk.com