Dry Riser Servicing And Maintenance - All That You May Need To Know

Dry risers consist of a system of pipes that are used to deliver water at the optimum to the different floors of the building in case of a fire. Since dry risers play a major role in a fire emergency, it is important that they are regularly serviced.

Dry riser service

Risers are primarily of two kinds. A wet riser remains water charged whereas a dry riser is kept empty of water. Wet risers are installed in buildings which are 60 metres in height, whereas dry risers are installed in buildings, which are above 18m metres in height.

Risers are essential equipment and ensure safety in case of a fire. It is important to service them at regular intervals due to the following reasons:

• Risers may be subject to vandalism and neglect.
• Penalties may be imposed in case inappropriate functioning of the risers is detected.
• Riser leaks can damage property.
  

It is also important to ensure that the dry risers are inspected and maintained for age related failures caused by general wear and tear and vandalism.

Hence it is essential that the risers are serviced regularly. According to British Standard Codes BS 9990:2006, it is mandatory to undertake two half yearly visual inspections and one annual pressure test of a dry riser. It is the responsibility of the person entrusted with the responsibility of the building to ensure that the half yearly inspections and annual dry riser service is carried out. Few other factors regarding dry riser service which may be considered include:

• The law mandates proper maintenance and inspection of a dry riser system.
• Since dry risers are an essential part of fire fighting, it is important to ensure that they are maintained and serviced according to the set standards.

The cost of servicing a dry riser can vary according to the nature and complexity of the system. Most dry riser service providers do an inspection of the system before quoting the price for the service.

Yearly Pressure Test Of Dry Risers

The annual pressure test is mandatory for dry risers. They are pressure tested for a minimum time of 15 minutes with a minimum pressure of 10 bar. This is the accepted and the lone way of effectively testing the system of the dry risers. The breeching connector which may be located at the level of fire service access or on the ground floor is checked for faults and leaks.

During the check, the other outlets and landing valves are also inspected. In case any faulty parts are detected, they may be replaced. Post the replacement, a retest is conducted. The certification is given only when the expert gets full satisfaction regarding the working of the system.

Half yearly visual inspection

The visual inspection undertaken by an expert involves faults, missing parts and damages in order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dry risers.

Ensuring that the dry risers remain functional and effective is an important step towards ensuring safety in case of a fire.

A Complete Guide for Dry Riser Installation, Servicing and Testing

While installing fire safety equipment, it is important to ensure that it has adequate supply of water in the absence of which it may not prove to be effective in case of a fire emergency. A dry riser can ensure optimum water supply to the entire building where it is installed.

Dry riser installation

A dry riser consists of a vertical pipe, which may branch into a system of pipes. These pipes ensure water distribution to various building levels. A dry riser helps in fire suppression and is generally fitted in an accessible area of the building like the staircase. Dry risers are installed in enclosures which are fire proof and at a maximum of 18m distance between the fire engine and inlet box.

Dry risers are installed according to the building regulations which mandate their installation with buildings above 18m in height. Opting for a dry riser installer servicing ensures adequate water supply to all levels of the building in case of a fire. In order to ensure this, it is important that the external inlet parts of a dry riser remain accessible during a fire emergency. The pipes in the dry riser consist of compressed air that is released to allow water flow in the situation of a fire emergency.

Dry riser testing

The safety standards for dry risers include the following aspects:

• Dry risers are serviced at six monthly intervals.
• An annual hydraulic pressure testing is done for a minimum time of 15 minutes.
• The building’s managing agent, landlord or owner is responsible for ensuring dry riser testing.
• Failure to inspect and test dry risers can invalidate the building insurance.

Dry riser testing is of the following main types:

Annual wet testing

The wet testing undertaken annually involves the following steps:

• The system is pressurized with water up to 10 bar for a minimum period of 15 minutes, with the help of a special test rig.
• If the riser is unable to hold the pressure, the joints, outlets and inlets are inspected for leaks and faults.
• Faulty items are replaced and another pressure test is undertaken.
• On completion of the testing procedure, the dry riser is drained.
• After being satisfied with the test results, a certification is issued.
  

Visual inspection

Visual inspections of the dry risers are undertaken every six months. Any visible damaged or missing items are noted and replaced. This type of inspection covers the aspects like signage, inlet valve rubbers and springs, glass and doors, inlet cabinets, landing outlets, nuts and wheels, chains and blank caps, outlet washers, locks and straps and valves. This type of comprehensive inspection ensures early detection of faults. In case the pipe work in the dry riser requires alterations, it is advisable to do a complete flow test.
It is important to ensure that inspection and testing is carried out by an expert. This can help to ensure safety in case of a fire emergency and lower the risk of damage to property and loss of life.