Watermist fire protection systems are being considered for and installed as fire protection measures in domestic and residential buildings in the UK. They are seen as a novel technology in the market but are sensitive to small design changes. Therefore, for successful implementation, watermist suppliers and approving bodies require an indepth knowledge of the system and its intended application. They are being offered as a ’green’ alternative to sprinkler systems because of their potential to reduce water consumption.
This Digest introduces the subject of watermist systems in domestic and residential building types to designers, specifiers, authorities having jurisdiction (building control practitioners, fire safety officers and insurers), end clients, developers, fire safety managers and non-specialists. It briefly covers: - background- reasons for choosing watermist systems- current UK standards- how watermist systems work- issues to be considered including specification, design, installation and ongoing maintenance- use of independent third-party approved suppliers and products.