Fire Guard Services
Dry Riser Testing
A dry riser is a system of pipe work and valves that runs up through a building. The system allows fire fighters to easily access water from each individual floor of the building. It consists of a vertical pipe with a water inlet on ground level located on an external wall and outlets known as landing valves, which are usually located in a dry riser cabinet on each floor. The dry risers are usually located in the fire-fighting shaft.
Testing and Reporting On Your Dry Riser
Fire Guard Services would provide a visual inspection of the riser every 6 months. We would also provide a more comprehensive test every 12 months including:
Following a dry riser test or a dry riser service, a certificate is issued to record the date of the testing and confirm the equipment passed the test and that it meets the requirements of BS9990:2015
Why Test?
Regular dry riser testing is essential to ensure the equipment is in good working order. Servicing and maintenance of the equipment should also be carried out at this time. The importance of a working dry riser cannot be underestimated. The Fire Service depends on dry risers in taller buildings in their fight against fire. If they cannot quickly and easily access the equipment or if it is faulty it may hamper their attempts to fight the fire and so further endanger lives.
How Often Should You Test?
It is a legal requirement that all dry riser installations undergo and pass an in-depth dry riser test every 12 months. This annual dry riser test involves a physical testing of the dry riser installation.
Book Your Dry Riser Testing Today
Your Dry Riser Questions Answered
Dry riser testing is essential for all commercial properties and must be carried out regularly in order to comply with legal requirements.
We also understand that property managers may have questions about dry riser testing. That’s why we’ve created this short FAQ to answer some of your questions.
A dry riser is a system of pipe work and valves that runs up through a building. The system allows fire fighters to easily access water from each individual floor of the building.
This includes a hydraulic pressure test (or wet pressure test). Using a fire service approved hose and water pump the system is filled with water to a pressure of 12 bar (175psi) for a minimum of 15 minutes. This tests the system for any leaks.
A fully qualified engineer will perform a visual inspection of the dry riser itself. They will then cordon off any areas affected by the testing. The system is then charged with water, and monitored to ensure the pressure is maintained over time and distance.