What is BS9990?
When researching fire protection systems for your property, you may have noticed that leading providers like
Eversafe Fire Protection specify that their installations comply with BS9990.
But what exactly does this mean, and why is it so important when selecting a trusted fire safety contractor?
The British Standard of Excellence
BS9990
is the British Standard for Non-Automatic Firefighting Systems in Buildings.
It’s an official code of practice that sets out detailed requirements for the design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of
non-automatic fire protection systems.
Unlike standards for automatic systems (such as sprinkler installations), BS9990 focuses specifically on equipment like
dry risers and wet risers. These systems are complex, require specialist design, and must be regularly inspected
to ensure they operate reliably in the event of a fire. The current version of the standard, BS9990:2015,
supersedes the earlier BS9990:2006 version.
What’s Included in BS9990?
BS9990:2015 provides clear guidance for both building owners and fire protection contractors.
For Building Owners:
- Carry out a visual inspection every 6 months — checking all equipment, pipework, and access cupboards.
- Arrange a full annual pressure test — the system must operate at 12 bar for at least 15 minutes to prove functionality.
For Fire Protection Providers (like Eversafe):
The standard specifies how systems must be designed, installed, and protected.
Key requirements include:
- Design systems to operate safely at 1.5× the required operating pressure.
- Secure all pipework using approved methods (e.g. screwed or socketed fittings).
- Install dry risers with a two-way inlet breeching for 100mm mains.
- Fit every inlet breeching with a 25mm drain valve.
- Include air release valves in all vertical mains to allow proper drainage.
- Ensure wet riser mains are insulated when located near external walls.
- Install valves on every floor, including ground level.
- Protect all system components from damage during unloading and installation.
Why is BS9990 Important?
Compliance with BS9990 ensures that your wet and dry riser systems
are designed and maintained to the highest safety and performance standards.
It gives building owners and managers peace of mind that their equipment meets all industry best practices and
will function correctly in an emergency.
At Eversafe Fire Protection, we proudly incorporate BS9990 — and the
BS EN 12845 Standard for Fixed Firefighting Systems — into every project we deliver.
Our installations are designed to safeguard your property, protect lives, and ensure long-term compliance.
Get in touch today to learn more about our
BS9990-compliant systems and how we can help protect your building with industry-leading fire safety solutions.