Using water mist TECHNICAL

GUIDANCE

systems in buildings
and structures
A guide to compliant applications
# 3
ISBN
0-9552628-8-7

BAFSA expresses its appreciation to all those who participated in the drafting
and completion of this document and in particular to the members of the BAFSA
Watermist Working Group and the Joint FIA/BAFSA Watermist Working Group.

Disclaimer: This document is issued for the guidance of BAFSA members and Notes:
should be used in accordance with the contents of the BS EN 14972 series, In earlier drafts of this document, there were significant number of
BS 8458 and the BS 8489 series. references and footnotes. The number of these references has been reduced
In providing this information BAFSA makes no warranties or undertakings to those which is felt are essential and others moved to the end of the guide.
as to its accuracy or completeness and assumes no liabilities in connection Notes on units. This document uses the scientific notation for units, examples
with the way the advice and information is used. Any deviations from BS EN are given below:
14972, BS 8458 and BS 8489 which may be contemplated should be agreed Flow Litres per minute l.min-1
with the Authority Having Jurisdiction and any minor deviations recorded on Density mm (per minute per m2) mm.min-1 or l.min-1.m-2
the Certificate of Compliance detailing the Originator of the Deviation. Size micron metre µm
BAFSA’s advice is that Certificates of Compliance should not be issued where Fire Load mega joules per m2 MJ.m-2
a system has been installed with major departures from the requirements of
BS EN 14972, BS 8458 and BS 8489. In the case of water mist installations Note also that although the pressure measurement ‘Bar’ is not an SI unit and
where there is insurer involvement, approval and guidance should be sought is widely used in fire protection engineering.
from the relevant underwriter. 1 Bar = 1000 kPa 1 Bar = 14.50377 1 Bar = 0.980665 kg/cm2

Scope
Water mist systems are based on proprietary products and mist systems are based on proprietary manufacturers’ technology
designs; they are not harmonized to a common set of properties. and design. The correct use of the design standards for water
The layout and spacing of nozzles, operating pressure and water mist are dependent on an assessment of the application hazard
capacity will differ between manufacturers and technology. and determination of applicability with the relevant fire test
It should be noted that nozzles and components are rarely protocol; proof of independent third-party fire testing to that
interoperable (which means one cannot use a nozzle from protocol; proof of third-party component approval; and limits
one manufacturer on a system installed based on a different of applicability as determined through testing and documented
manufacturer). in the manufacturer design manual. There is a requirement to
This document has been written to provide facts about ensure competence in design for water mist systems that is not
water mist as a firefighting technology. The general perception currently verified through examination, or a LPCB third-party
is that the application of water mist technology is similar or verification scheme, such as LPS1048 or LPS1204 respectively for
equivalent to sprinklers or gas extinguishing systems. This is not sprinkler and gas extinguishing systems.
the case. The use of sprinklers and gas extinguishing systems is The aim of this document is not to replicate information
guided by prescriptive standards, developed from decades of that exists in standards but to explain the context in which they
fire-testing, research and knowledge base of their effectiveness have been drafted, and to detail considerations and limitations
and reliability in real-case fires. Water mist is a performance- of water mist systems, which are not clearly documented in all
based technology. That is, it that requires specific testing to each standards. It should be a useful document for those who may
possible fire scenario. For a limited set of fire scenarios, a set wish to specify fire suppression systems, have a role in approving
of standardised fire test protocols have been developed. Each these or simply want to increase their knowledge of water mist.
manufacturer has developed their own water mist product to The annexes at the end of the document provide technical and
‘pass’ one or more of these fire test protocols. Thus, all water supporting references.

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 Using water mist systems
in buildings and structures
A guide to compliant TECHNICAL
applications GUIDANCE

1.0 Introduction

Over the past 30 years, water mist technology has increasingly 1 .1 D EFINITION OF WATER MIST
been considered a viable method of protecting the occupants Definitions vary between standards in terms of the method of
of buildings and some building equipment and contents. This measurement, but a good working definition is:
document provides a guide to what mist systems can (and “A water spray for which the cumulative volumetric distribution
cannot) do and provides a guide to technology used and the of 90% of water droplets is less than 1,000μm (microns)3 at the
standards that are presently available. nozzle minimum operating pressure”.
This document does not replicate or replace any specific
1 . 2 D EFINITION OF A WATER MIST SYSTEM
standard but summarises the knowledge contained within. It
aims to set the requirements in context so that they can be better A fire suppression distribution system connected to a water
understood by those who wish to procure, specify, or approve supply, that discharges water mist where required, that is fitted
water mist systems. with one or more nozzles intended to extinguish, suppress or
The design of water mist systems is intended to achieve a fire control the fire.
performance objective. This maybe to achieve fire extinguishing, 1 . 3 HISTORY OF D EVELOPMENT OF WATER MIST
suppression, or control.1 Manufacturers use differing technology Early maritime water mist applications were introduced
to develop and maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of following disastrous fires on two large passenger ferries in 1990.
droplet deployment to achieve the performance objective. This In 1993 a series of independent cabin and corridor fire tests
will vary with both the manufacturer and with the application, were undertaken which led to revised International Maritime
both for the nozzle and means of water delivery. For each nozzle Organisation fire safety requirements for passenger ships and the
type there will be a change in nozzle appearance, minimum development of installation guidelines and fire test procedures
operating pressure, k-factor2, spacing, height and activation for alternatives to conventional sprinkler systems.
type; and in different requirements for location, orientation and Early use of land-based water mist technology came at
limitations (for example, use with ventilation). the beginning of the 1990 and was partly linked to the rapid
As discussed in the introduction, water mist, unlike sprinkler or expansion of food processing production plants that were being
gas extinguishing systems, is wholly application and manufacturer constructed to cope with the growing demand for ready-prepared
specific. Each particular hazard or occupancy requires its own meals and other convenience foods. The food industry and their
very specific design which is detailed in the manufacturer’s DIOM insurers recognised the benefits of correctly installed and tested
(Design Installation Operation and Maintenance manual). This water mist systems in extinguishing potentially disastrous fires.
DIOM should include limits of applicability (such as fire hazard, At about the same time, following the prohibition on the use
temperature, height, ventilation, obstructions, etc). It is therefore of the Halon gases for firefighting in 1989, water mist joined
not possible to design a mist system simply by reference to the portfolio of alternative extinguishing media considered and
one of the standards available. This is unlike sprinkler systems developed by the fire industry.
where reference to BS EN 12845 or BS 9251 may suffice, or gas Early applications were limited to very specific occupancies
extinguishing systems where the BS EN 15004 series or BS 5306 requiring full scale fire tests. Over the last 25 years however,
Part 4 apply. For water mist, the DIOM is the fundamental guide much research has been carried out and as experience has grown
to application and manufacturer specific design instructions with the subsequent development of fire test standards.
whilst the standards per se list the performance requirements Water mist systems are a now an alternative for gas extinguishing
of water mist systems independent of manufacturer for the systems for a wider range of hazards including engine rooms,
occupancies where fire test protocols exist. electrical transformers, steam and combustion turbines, and oil

PA G E 2 • NOVEMBER 2023 BAFSA .ORG.UK

 cookers. These types of applications were traditionally protected Water mist removes heat and displaces oxygen and provides a
by carbon dioxide systems, but there is general acceptance by wetting interface between unignited combustibles and the flame
insurers and users that a suitably tested and approved water mist front. The physical difference between water mist and sprinklers
system is both safe and effective. is simply the droplet size. As the droplet size decreases the
Water mist has also been installed in homes, saunas, and following physical changes take place:
heritage buildings. These types of applications (and others such 1. The mass decreases. This permits a more rapid evaporation
as schools, offices, and data centres) require a much higher level of the water. It allows movement of the water within an air
of fire engineering to determine the suitability of water mist. stream (entertainment). It lowers its momentum which can
This will be determined, amongst other factors, on the relevant inhibit the water from penetrating the heat plume.
fire test protocol and the limitations of the design to ensure the 2. Per unit volume there are more droplets which increases the
water mist system provides the fire protection objective. For surface area available for contact with heat.
an independent assessment of suitable applications, reference
should be made to the standard BS 5306 Part 0. The production of small droplets can be achieved through a
The need for coherent guidance for performance-based variety of technologies that include:
water mist technology has led to the production of British, 1. Using high pressure (typically greater than 60 bars) to force
European, US and Maritime Standards for the design, installation, water through very small orifices. The pressure energy is
commissioning, and maintenance of water mist systems. transferred to breaking the water into small droplets that emit
The detail of within each standard differs but the common at high speed but small mass and pressure (droplet diameter
theme is the water mist system must be performance tested in the range of 50 to 200 microns)
for any given application to meet specific criteria (be that 2. Using a deflector that breaks the water into droplets typically
extinguishing, suppression, or control) as defined by a relevant between pressures of 4 to 16 bars (‘low’ pressure). (Droplet
fire test protocol. There are also detailed sections that cover diameter in the range of 150 to 350 microns)
salient matters such as component approval and design 3. Using a propellant gas (such as nitrogen or air) to atomize the
competence. At present in the UK there are both UK and water at a nozzle at pressures typically 6 to 8 bars (droplet
European standards used in parallel, and it is an unfortunate diameter in the range of 10 to 50 microns). These are known
fact that this has led to a ‘pick and mix’ approach from less as twin fluid systems. Note that they differ from water mist
competent designers. systems where the propellant is used simply to pressurize the
water.
1 .4 H OW WAT E R M IST WO RKS
For a fire to spread, it relies on the presence of the three Note that pressure is not the defining property of water mist.
elements: oxygen, heat and combustible material. This is known The performance of the water mist system is all that is relevant.
as the fire triangle. The removal of any one of these elements can To avoid confusion neither the UK or European standards use
suppress or extinguish a fire. the terms high- or low-pressure water mist. There are some
performance and application differences between technologies.
Water has unique thermodynamic properties. The first is its
The fire triangle specific heat capacity, that relative to other materials is very high.
The specific heat capacity is the amount of energy required to
heat one kilogram of substance by one degree kelvin4. The value
for water is 4,200 J.kg-1K-1. This means that 4,200J (joules) of
en

He

energy are required to heat 1kg of water by 1 degree Kelvin (1oC).

yg

at
Ox

Conversely cold water put onto a hot surface will extract the
same amount of energy per unit mass/temperature drop.
The second important property is the latent heat of
Combustible Material vaporisation. Once the water temperature reaches 100oC
it changes phase to vapour (steam) without a change in
temperature. The energy required for this phase change is
known as the latent heat of vaporisation. For water this value
is 2,257kJ.kg-1. This means that 2,257kJ (kilojoules, or 2.257MJ
(megajoules)) of energy is required to change liquid water to
vapour. As for the example for specific heat capacity above, this
property is used to extract heat.
The smaller the droplet size, the greater number of droplets
per unit volume and a greater the surface area with which to
absorb the heat. Therefore, smaller droplets equate to greater
heat extraction and more rapid cooling.
Water as a droplet or vapour contributes to firefighting
through two other mechanisms. The first is dilution of oxygen
Figure 1: The fire triangle and water droplet size in relation to around the flame which removes a second element of the
surface area fire triangle. The second is the attenuation of radiation which

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 Figure 2: Oxygen reduction and temperature drop for water mist discharged on a Class B fire

prevents heat transferring to adjacent combustibles and The application of water mist for Class B or Class F fires is by
structures, such as walls and ceilings. means of a deluge, or open nozzle system, whereby the water
Not all fires are ‘hot’ and therefore the effectiveness of water mist is discharged simultaneously through all nozzles. Actuation
mist depends not only on its droplet size but also the fire class of is via a detection system. The fire test protocols and approval
the material and its burn temperature. procedures for this type of fire hazard have been long established
Let us first consider Class B or Class F fuel types. Class B fuels and it is fair to say, that water mist is probably the de facto choice
are flammable hydrocarbon liquids or solids that include heptane, for these applications.
oil, paraffin wax, and alcohols. Class F fuels are vegetable or Test data proves that the smaller droplet sizes are more
animal fats used in commercial or industrial cooking. Both Class efficient in terms of water quantities, see is shown in Figure 3.
B and Class F fires are characterised by a high temperature burn. The design of water mist systems for Class B and Class F
The water removes heat energy first through the mechanism applications is of two forms – total flood or local application.
of specific heat capacity and then through latent heat of In total flood the entire volume is filled with water mist (for
vaporisation. The production of large amounts of steam as the example a generator enclosure). Water mist nozzles are required
water changes phase depletes the oxygen around the flame to be installed across uncloseable openings to prevent ingress of
front. The fire is extinguished when the oxygen level falls below external air (oxygen) during the extinguishing process. For local
15% by volume. The cooling by water mist post extinguishment applications water mist nozzles are directed on or around the
is equally as important as it will lower the fuel below the ignition object to be protected (for example industrial deep fat fryers).
temperature, preventing re-ignition. Note that twin fluid systems rely on providing extinguishment
to a greater degree through use of the atomising gas. The
Water Consumption 1MW Fire Extinguishment residual oxygen level is between 10-12% and the water mist
provides additional cooling.
180
If we now consider Class A fuel types, the application of water
160
160 ltr. mist now is more challenging. Class A fuels include combustibles
144 ltr.
140
such as wood, paper, and cloth, etc. Also within Class A fire
120
class are plastics, which have unique burn characteristics.
100
Class A fires are also deep-seated. This means that even if the
Litres of water

80
surface temperature is cooled there is often sufficient thermal
60
energy within the material to allow pyrolysis to continue (it is
42 ltr.
40
the pyrolyzed (material gas) products that ignite). Thus, whilst
20
extinguishment is desirable it cannot be guaranteed and the
0
objective of (all but one published) fire test protocol for Class
A fires is that of suppression, defined by parameters within the
Low High Twin
protocol. Note that the defining parameters differ between fire
Pressure Pressure Fluid
test protocols, and it is important to ascertain the application
requirement prior to deciding the suitability of a particular fire
Figure 3: Relative water quantity required to extinguish a 1MW test protocol.
fire per water mist technology – decreasing droplet size reduces
the water required

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 For Class A applications the water mist system is configured as by the statement “water mist is 10 x more efficient (or uses less
an automatic system (as a sprinkler system). That is, each nozzle water than) sprinklers”.
has a frangible heat sensitive element that acts as both detector As evidenced through fire testing, the water density to
and actuator. Water will only discharge from each nozzle that has suppress Class A fires for water mist is not constant but increases
reached activation temperature. with fire load density. As an example, for light hazard fire loads
The suppression of Class A fires requires more water than (< 150MJ.m-2), the lowest water density for a system approved to
for Class B or F fires, and the larger droplet sizes may produce a light hazard fire test protocol (FM 5560 Appendix G) is 1.5mm
more efficient systems in terms of water quantity used (as and the average across all approvals is 2.5mm. This 50% of a
opposed to Class B and F fires). This is thought to be due to the sprinkler design density of 5mm.
importance of direct impingement and wetting of the material For higher hazard fire loads, the water mist required
over indirect entrainment. density increases to between 3.5 to 4.2mm (based on the BS
The effectiveness of water mist against sprinklers is often EN 14972-3 fire test protocol). Note for this hazard application
erroneously compared. As an example, a sprinkler water density the sprinkler design density is still 5mm. Note that the water
is taken as 5mm (5 litres per minute per m2) for a Class A fire mist values are at optimum (maximum) spacing and minimum
ordinary hazard. This is then compared against a water mist water pressures. In actual designs the water density will be more,
density of 0.5mm for a Class B fire hazard. Often accompanied which is explained below.

1. Definitions in BS 8489-1, see Annex 1 of this document

2. The k-factor is a nozzle constant that is used to calculate the flow rate at a given pressure
3. 1,000µm = 1mm
4. The Kelvin is an absolute unit of temperature whose unit value is the same as o Celsius. Zero kelvin is the lowest possible temperature equivalent
to -273.16oC, sometimes known as ‘absolute zero’.

PA G E 5 • NOVEMBER 2023 BAFSA .ORG.UK

 Using water mist systems
in buildings and structures
A guide to compliant TECHNICAL
applications GUIDANCE

2.0 Water Mist Systems

Water mist systems are based on proprietary product; they are 2 .1. 2 AUTOMATIC NOZZLE SYSTEMS
not harmonized to a common set of properties. The layout and Automatic nozzles contain a thermal element (normally a
spacing of nozzles, operating pressure and water capacity will frangible thermal link or alcohol filled bulb) at a pre-set activation
differ between manufacturers and technology. It should be noted temperature (for most water mist nozzles tested and approved
that nozzles and components are rarely interoperable (which this is 57oC or 68oC). When the ambient temperature surpasses
means one cannot use a nozzle from manufacturer on a system this value, the element fails (for example a thermal link will melt
installed based on different manufacturer). Nozzle and system or the alcohol in the bulb expands breaking the glass). The water
designs are customised to the application, based on successful then flows from the nozzle. All other nozzles remain closed unless
completion of fire testing which result in a variety of nozzle types, the ambient temperature exceeds their opening threshold value.
spacing and activation methods. Example of automatic water mist nozzles are shown in Figure 5.
There are however generic water mist application categories. Note that automatic nozzles do not currently exist for twin-
fluid systems.
2 .1 TYPE S O F SYST E M S
2 .1. 3 ELECTR ONICALLY CONTR OLLED NOZZLE
2 .1 .1 O PE N NOZ Z L E OR DELU G E SYST EMS
Open nozzle (or deluge) systems are dry pipe activated by a A type of nozzle in which the release of water is made by
separate fire detection system. electronic means instead of by mechanical means. An electronic
Examples of open nozzles are shown in Figure 4. control allows for a predetermined number of nozzles to operate
via alternative means, for example a smoke, heat, or flame
detector.

Figure 4: High and low pressure nozzles

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 Figure 5: Automatic Nozzle Examples

For automatic systems, zoning is a means for sectioning the

building to identify where the fire occurs (for example, per floor).
Each zone has a valve that will have a flow switch to indicate
activation of a water mist nozzle within that zone of the system.

2 . 3 WATER SUPPLIES
Water mist can be delivered either through a pre-pressurised
system (stored water and propellant gas in cylinders) or a flow
generating device (a pump) through the system distribution
pipework to the nozzles. In twin-fluid delivery systems there is an
additional pipe for the atomizing gas.

Figure 6: Electronically Controlled Nozzle Example 2 . 3.1 SINGLE FLUID PUMPED

A single fluid system generates water mist by delivering water
Note that at present there are no UK test standards for this through the nozzle under pressure from a pump system. Pumps
type of nozzle. for pressures 16 bars and under are centrifugal type (as for
sprinklers). Pumps for pressures above 50 bar are positive
2 . 2 TYPE S O F A PPL ICAT I O N displacement (or piston) type. Both pump systems require a
storage water tank of sufficient working capacity for the duration
2 . 2 .1 LO CA L A PPL ICAT I O N
of discharge required for the size or design area of the hazard.
A local application (or object protection) system is used to protect Centrifugal pumps are available for any flow likely to be
facilities and equipment only, such as individual diesel driven required for a water mist system. The characteristic pump curve
generator sets, transformers, switchgear and deep fat fryers, has a maximum pressure at zero flow (closed head) and the
by discharging water directly onto the hazard and if required pressure decreases as flow increases.
adjacent risks. Their use is advantageous when a specific risk is Piston pumps have a maximum flow up to ~120 litres.min-1
disproportionately higher than the risk in the rest of the space, or and provide a constant pressure throughout the flow range. The
the object is small compared with the overall volume. The design head pressure is set by an unloader valve which also acts as a
requirements for local application are more stringent as the relief valve for unused flow. For example, if a pump provides 120
extinguishing method relies much more on cooling than oxygen l.min-1 but the nozzle delivery only requires 50 l.min-1, the balance
reduction since the volume is not fully enclosed. (An exception is (70 l.min-1) returns to the storage tank or drain, via the unloader
within the hood of an industrial deep fat fryer). Local application valve.
systems use open nozzle system design.
2 . 3. 2 SINGLE FLUID PR ESSUR IZED
2 . 2 . 2 VO LUM E PR OT ECT I O N
A single fluid pressurized system generates water mist by
Volume protection systems are used to discharge water mist into delivering water through the nozzle under pressure from a
an enclosed volume, compartment, or room. In open nozzle systems pressurised gas container. The gas (usually nitrogen) does not mix
the water flows through all nozzles within the protected volume. In with the water being pressurised; it is only used for pressure/flow
automatic systems one or more nozzles activate as required. generating purposes.
2 . 2 . 3 ZO NE D PR OT ECT I O N
2 . 3. 3 TWIN FLUID PR ESSUR IZED
In open deluge systems, each protected volume is controlled by A twin fluid system generates water mist by mixing an inert
a valve (known as a selector or directional valve). Water mist will gas or air fed from separate pipework to the water mist nozzle.
only discharge into the volume with a fire. If there is sufficient Such systems are normally container based (as single fluid
water supply for the largest protected volume this can be an pressurized).
economical way of protecting more than one volume (assuming
there will not be multiple fires at the same time where additional
water quantities and/or larger piping will be required).

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 2 . 4 SYST E M O PE R AT I O N TYPES 2 .4 .5 ELECTR ONICALLY CONTR OLLED SYSTEM
Electronically controlled systems consist of nozzles which
2 . 4 .1 WE T PIPE SYSTEM (AUTO MAT I C NOZZLES)
incorporate a valve that is operated by a ‘controller’, actuated
This water mist system uses automatic, heat sensitive, nozzles by fire sensors to either allow water to discharge or to shut off
fitted to distribution pipework that is permanently pressurised flow. This permits for a pre-determined number of nozzles to
with water. Wet pipe systems are the most common automatic operate. Which nozzles operate will depend on the location
suppression configuration and are typically used to protect areas of fire identified by the controller. This may be via the use of a
where temperatures are above 4oC and below 95oC and are detection system or other sensing method. There are also stand-
unlikely to fall below freezing point. alone, modular domestic systems that use this principle. Such
2 . 4 . 2 D RY PIPE SYSTEM (AUTO MAT I C NOZZLES)
self-contained applications are known as Personal Protection
This water mist system uses automatic nozzles fitted to Systems and are designed specifically to protect vulnerable
distribution pipework that are permanently pressurised with air, people such as the bed-ridden or immobile. System requirements
nitrogen, or other inert gas. In the event of a fire, when a nozzle are detailed in the Loss Prevention Standard LPS 1655.
operates, the pressure drop in the distribution pipework activates 2 .5 SYSTEM D ESIGN TYPE
the system’s control valve to release water into the pipework
where it is discharged through the nozzle. 2 .5.1 ENGINEER ED
These systems are typically used in the same applications Engineered systems require hydraulic flow calculations to
as wet pipe systems where the key constraint is the need to determine the requirements of pump pressure and flow
prevent freezing of water in the pipes. There is a delay in flow of and the amount of water storage. The core information will
water because of the time it takes to fill the distribution network be determined from the type and number of nozzles within
with water, which increases with the volume of pipe work to the design area. Calculations will be undertaken for the
be filled. Because of this delay, such systems are not normally hydraulically most favourable areas (to determine the maximum
be considered for applications where there is a need for the water quantity and flow required) and the hydraulically most
protection of life. unfavourable areas (to determine pump source pressure and
Note fire test protocols do not test to include the delay in dry pipe sizes such that the most remote nozzles operate above the
pipe systems. Proof will need to be provided in the certification minimum design pressure).
of the maximum delay permitted and that the system will still
2 .5. 2 PR E-ENGINEER ED
perform as tested and prescribed.
These systems have pre-determined flow rates and water
2 . 4 . 3 D E LUGE SYST EM (O PEN NOZZLE) quantities. This results in very little work to be done by the
A deluge system is designed so all open nozzles discharge designer as the pipe diameters can be derived from look-up
simultaneously in the event of a fire. This is achieved when a tables verified by testing and included in the DIOM. These
separate fire detection system is actuated. This in turn operates systems generally are limited to simple deluge systems, for
the pump or container actuator and a valve in the pipe work to example the protection of small enclosures for the protection of
release the water through all the open water mist nozzles. Fire Class B fuel hazards.
detection systems can be electrical, electronic, or pneumatic.
2 .6 WATER MIST PIPEWOR K AND FIT TINGS
The actuation should comply with BS 7273 Part 5. As the
nozzles are open, the water distribution system is kept dry and The material used for the pipework and fittings of a water mist
unpressurised. The activation of the fire detection system is more system should be governed by the operating pressure and other
sensitive than heat detectors or frangible bulbs. A deluge system requirements of the water mist system (such as water purity) and
may be zoned. This allows for several areas to be protected the environment surrounding the installed pipe. This may include
but permits a discharge in only one area (zone) at any given resistance to heat, or chemical corrosion.
time (unless the water supply and pipe diameters are sized for All water mist systems require the use of non-corrosive
simultaneous discharges). materials such as stainless steel, copper, or brass. Twin fluid
systems can use galvanized or steel pipe for the atomising agent
2 . 4 .4 PR E -ACT IO N SYST EM as there is no direct contact with water.
Such systems comprise an automatic water mist installation Further details of pipe types can be found in the FIA-BAFSA
and a fire detection system. The water mist pipe work is dry, Piping Document.
pressurised with air, and monitored for loss of pressure.
On receipt of a signal from two or more detectors, the main
control panel sends a signal to open the pre-action control
valve, allowing water to flow into the distribution pipework in
readiness for the water mist nozzle(s) to operate. These systems
are commonly used for the protection of high value areas such
as data centres, server rooms or communications, or where
sensitive electrical equipment and goods are stored. They provide
warning of system discharge (through the operation of the fire
alarm system) and prevent accidental discharge if a frangible
bulb were inadvertently broken or the pipe work damaged. The Examples of pipe and fittings stainless (L) and copper (R)
actuation should comply with BS 7273 Part 3.

PA G E 8 • NOVEMBER 2023 BAFSA .ORG.UK

 Using water mist systems
in buildings and structures
A guide to compliant TECHNICAL
applications GUIDANCE

3.0 Using Water Mist

Given the performance-based design of water mist systems and to develop a fire protocol where one does not yet exist. An
their proprietary nature, the design of water mist systems does example of a well-established application which only recently has
not follow the prescriptive approach as detailed for other fire had a standard for it is that of data centres. ‘Prisons’ do not yet
suppression systems (i.e. sprinklers, gas extinguishing systems, have such a protocol although water mist was proven by testing
etc). As a result, system component manufacturers have much commissioned by Scottish and English Prisons some years back.
more involvement and responsibility in demonstrating the Clause 8 Method B of BS 5306-0:2020 provides guidance on
suitability and performance of their water mist system and must the how deviations from standards and out of scope systems
show necessary competence in assessing suitable applicability can be assessed for the intended application. Application of
and design. due diligence by examining the proposed installation of a
non-standard solution is essential. As is the by assurance that
3 .1 LEGIS L AT IO N
a proposed standardised system does indeed comply to the
The primary legislation for life safety fire protection is contained standard in the manner it states it does. This is the key reason
in the Building Act 1984, and the building relevant regulation is for the value of third-party certification and the disclosure of
the Building Regulations 2010, Schedule 1. The applicable fire the manufacturer’s DIOM manual to all stakeholders involved.
safety guidance is given in Approved Document B (ADB) Volumes Method B warns that: “Innovative, engineered or otherwise
1 and 2 including the latest date amendments. Codes of practice non-standard solutions can be significantly higher risk in many
for fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings respects. However, they can offer overall benefit where there is a
are detailed in BS 9991 (residential) and BS 9999 (commercial genuine need for such a solution. At least equivalent performance
and industrial). Note that the current requirements of the (to the closest applicable standardised technology) should be
building regulations of 2018 have superseded certain sections sought”. It is often the case that the contracting parties are
of BS 9991 (a 2024 revision is in preparation). ADB does not unaware of the size and type of fire load. Thus, it is not always
include reference to water mist, but BS 9991 (2015 edition) and possible to determine if the water mist system is suitable. As an
BS 9999 do. In Wales, the design and installation of water mist example, BS 8489 Part 1 Table 1 lists two fire test protocols for
systems, where installed as an alternative to sprinkler systems light hazards. The first is FM 5560 Appendix G (most commonly
must comply with Regulation 37A of Building Regulations and the available from water mist manufacturers) which has a maximum
Domestic Fire Safety (Wales) Measure 2011. fire test load of 150 MJ.m-2. The second is BS 8489 Part 7
3 . 2 WAT E R M IST STANDA RDS
that tests for fire loads up to 500 MJ.m-2 (less available from
At the time of publication (November 2023), there are two manufacturers). Thus, if the FM protocol were used for a fire load
British Standards and one suite of European Standards covering of 250 MJ.m-2 (instead of a BS 8489 Part 7 tested system) the
the design and installation of water mist systems in the UK (see performance of the system will be at best unknown, and at worse
Annex 2). ineffective.
As new products and test protocols for applications are in At the time of writing, the published British Standards for
continuing development, there may not necessarily be a standard water mist include for limited application in residential and
to guide manufacturers and buyers to the suitability of every domestic occupancies (BS 8458) and industrial and commercial
solution. This may have to be done on a case-by-case basis with occupancies (BS 8489). The European standards are covered in
the creation of a bespoke fire test protocol and by referring, the BS EN 14972 series.
if relevant, to a similar real-life application. The water mist BS 8489 Part 1 and BS EN 14972 Part 1 set out the design and
standards BS EN 14972 Part 1 Annex A details the methodology installation requirements of water mist systems and subsequent

PA G E 9 • NOVEMBER 2023 BAFSA .ORG.UK

 parts of these standards detail fire test protocols for certain A CEN standard for nozzles, EN 17450 Part 2 is awaiting
applications. BS 8458 is a stand-alone document that includes publication. However, this does not include a high-temperature
design, installation, and the requirements of fire testing. ageing test that BRE have verified is critical for proving the
Note that the UK were active contributors to EN 14972 Part 1. reliability of automatic nozzles that use dynamic polymeric
However, there were certain important technical and fire safety O-rings. It is likely that this test will be an optional (normative)
aspects that were not agreed with CEN prior to publication. test, that would be required for the UK market. This will be
The UK concerns, with additional guidance, are detailed in the confusing to many end users resulting in a two-tier standard.
National Forward and National Annexes of BS EN 14972 Part 1. Some experts believe that the EN standard is technically inferior
It is important that these are fully considered and documented to BS 8663-1.
prior to any use of this standard. Note: The problem of dynamic O-rings is well-documented
See Annex 2 for full details of published BS EN standards with sprinklers and has been observed with water mist nozzles.
relating to water mist systems and components. The O-ring can harden that can cause leaks and/or fail to actuate
The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) also when required.
holds up to date information covering international published
3.5 THIR D -PARTY VER IFICATION
standards for water mist.
Third-party testing and verification of the performance and
3 . 3 F IR E T E ST PR OTO CO LS composition of the system must be proven by certification, often
The design and installation methods of water mist systems are publicly listed (for example LPCB Red Book Live). Although not
based on proprietary information, so systems will vary between mandated by law in the UK, certification provides one element
manufacturer and with each application, so their effectiveness of surety to stakeholders. This is because certification is an
in fighting fires must be verified by standardised tests. This assessment by an independent competent body, and evidence
standardised test is known as a fire test protocol which has a set that the manufacturer is willing to have their manufacturing
of parameters that define the system performance objectives. processes and systems’ performance thoroughly scrutinised.
Fire test protocols have only been published for a selected range Robust certification also performs important functions such
of fire hazards and occupancies. Note that the type and size checking that the supplier has not changed their materials, or
of fire loads used for the fire test may not represent those of design, without obtaining full revalidation. Certification also
the application hazard. In addition, each test protocol will have provides additional routes to problem and dispute resolution.
limiting parameters which will limit the system performance Certification laboratories have, for many years, undertaken
and validation of certification. Such parameters include, but work in testing products to national standards but also (usually
are not limited to, height, ventilation, ceiling slope, activation in the absence of such standards) to their own standards. For
temperature, obstructions, etc. It is these aspects that requires example, as there is no UK standard for personal protection water
suitable competence in fire engineering to determine whether mist systems, the LPCB developed LPS 1655. LPCB have also been
water mist is appropriate for any given hazard/occupancy. published approval documents for fire suppression systems in
The introduction of BS 8489 Part 1 states “The water mist kitchens - including water mist. Such documents are invariably
system is to be…tested in accordance with a recognised test developed by test laboratories in conjunction with stakeholders
protocol”. This means that the system specified for an occupancy who are expected to fund the work. Certification laboratories
not covered in the standard requires the designer and installer to also have the autonomy to extend their testing and assessment
produce evidence that the proposed system is fit for purpose for program to promote confidence of the systems tested beyond
the proposed application. This must include one or more of each the consensus found in national standards.
of the following: Certification laboratories which have experience with water
• Fire testing undertaken in an approved fire laboratory with BS mist components internationally are FM, LPCB, UL and VdS.
EN ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation
3.6 TYPES OF C ERTIFICATIONS
• Reference to third-party verified fire tests already undertaken
elsewhere for such an application 3.6 .1 FIR E TEST PR OTOCOL
A certificate detailing the performance to a specific fire test
Care should be taken by manufacturers and installers to avoid protocol. The certificate will detail factors including as a minimum
claims appearing to fulfil these criteria but which on closer nozzle spacing, height, operating pressure and k-factor and
inspection do not. limitations.
3 . 4 CO M P O NE NT STA NDA RDS
3.6 . 2 SYSTEM C ERTIFICATION
There is a significant amount of accumulated knowledge of the This is certification of the fire performance for the specific
ways in which fire suppression system components can fail over application and is closely linked to the requirements of the
time depending on the material with which they are made, standard in addition to specific test laboratory criteria. The test
method of construction and operation, and the environment laboratories will certify systems which have successfully been
that they are exposed to. Some of the tests and best practices tested either to specific fire test protocols (above) as listed in
embedded in these standards may include ageing tests, over- BS 8489 (parts 4 to 7), BS 8458 or BS EN 14972. Other fire test
pressure tests, and material choices. The only UK national water protocols in standards exist in the standards FM5560, UL2167
mist component standard is for nozzles - BS 8663 Part 1. and VdS 3188.

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 Certification is based upon satisfactory evaluation of the 3.6 .4 C ERTIFICATION OF INSTALLER S
product and the manufacturer in the following major areas: The third essential element of quality requirements for
• Examination and tests on production samples performed to installations is an assurance that the designer/installer of the
evaluate: system is fully competent to undertake this work. It is the only
o The suitability of the product. certain way to ensure that the requirements in BS 8458, BS 8489
o The performance of the product as specified by the and BS EN 14872-1 to design and install the system are ‘entrusted
manufacturer and required by the testing organization; to appropriately qualified and experienced people’. This is
and, as far as practical, typically done using a certification standard which is based on a
o The durability and reliability of the product. national standard as specified above.
• A thorough review of the proposed water mist DIOM manual. Third-party certification is key because it is an external
assessment of competence. However, given the proprietary
There are occasions where a variation of a standardised product nature of water mist, it will not necessarily capture the specific
or a completely different product (which is out of scope of requirements from different manufacturers. Therefore, just as
existing standards) is proposed. Invariably, there will not be a important, is evidence that the installers’ workforce have been
certification scheme for such systems which will rely on a certifier trained by the manufacturer and can demonstrate competence
who is willing to adapt or create a test protocol for that product. for that specific product. This evidence should be available
The certifier may adapt existing test protocols for system and from manufacturers, so stakeholders should ask for sight of
components but might also need to develop custom fire test references and training certificates from system or component
protocols following the guidance in Annex A of BS EN 14972- manufacturers.
1. This can be a lengthy process, but it is the typical path for Note that designer competence requires skills and experience
a product category to then become standardised. Conversely, in fire engineering; determining applicability and suitability
a system which is within the scope of a standard implies that of a fire test protocol to the fire hazard and occupancy; the
certification schemes are readily available and there is therefore ability to determine design areas; and undertake hydraulic
no reason for these systems not to be able to be fully certified. flow calculations. It will also require an understanding of pump
curves; actuation; system interfacing; electrical loads and system
3 .6 . 3 C E RT IF ICAT IO N O F EQ U I PMENT
resiliency. These are just some of the examples. Such an engineer
As with other fire protection equipment, certification of the is likely to be qualified to at least degree level, have many years’
components should be the norm. A certified component provides experience in the fire suppression industry, be registered with the
evidence the component has been third party scrutinised and IFE and be either an Incorporated or Chartered fire engineer or
therefore is reliable, but it is not a guarantee on its own and scientific equivalent.
should not be confused with the system performance validation. As stated, a key part of the regime which ensures that
There should also be a link (through a reference in the DIOM) on water mist systems will be effective and reliable is the correct
what components and what certifications have been achieved for installation of the water mist system, which depends on the
which applications. attestation of the competence of the designer and installing
Therefore, specifiers of water mist systems must ensure that company.
the components that make up a water mist system are listed It is important to note the distinction between accreditation
as approved by a recognised approval body. It is essential that and conformity assessment. Accreditation ensures that those
specifiers are supplied with copies of the relevant listing or who carry out testing, certification and inspection are competent
certificates, which should normally be included in the tender to do so, it therefore applied only to approval and testing bodies
submission or specification document. accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service. (https://
Components which typically undergo certification are: www.gov.uk/guidance/conformity-assessment-and-accreditation)
• Control valves, water pumps, water, and gas pressure ‘Approvals’ by organisations who are not so accredited should be
containers. viewed with care.
• Distribution pipework, couplings, and fittings. Conformity assessment is a service provided by an accredited
• Water mist nozzles. body such as an UKAS accredited (or European Notified Body) to
• Fire detection and alarm control panels, fire detection sensors, providers of products or services. As a result, installers, products,
alarm sounders, indicators, and actuators. and components can only be certified (or conformity assessed),
• Non-electrical equipment such as pneumatic, hydraulic, or they cannot be accredited.
mechanic control valves and equipment. Given the changes necessitated by the withdrawal of the UK
• Manual actuation equipment. from the EU, the government intends to introduce legislation
to extend recognition of goods that meet EU requirements,
In addition to compliance with the minimum test requirements including the CE marking, indefinitely, beyond 31 December 2024
for individual components according to the relevant standards, it for many products. This will mean that certain goods that meet
is essential that the assembly of components is tested together EU requirements can be placed on theGB market. These updates
as a system and as such, the system also carries a system apply to the 18 regulations that fall under the Department for
approval. To ensure the efficacy of a system, an independent Business and Trade (DBT). Manufacturers will have the choice
third-party certification body must examine and test that system to use either theCE marking or other recognised EU markings
to establish its firefighting performance and the compatibility of (where permitted), or the UKCA marking to supply products to
all components. Great Britain.5

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 UKAS accredited certification bodies which are presently • General Information regarding the type of system.
providing third party certification for water mist installers are • Limits of application, for example height, ventilation,
LPCB, IFCC and FIRAS. obstructions, etc.
Note that at present there is no equivalent LPCB third- • Description of components and the standards to which they
party installer scheme in the UK to LPS 1048 for sprinklers. are designed.
FIRAS and IFCC operate third-party schemes for residential and • Testing of the specific system/s and details of the fire test
domestic systems, but these are essentially verifications of tests protocols against which they have been tested and the results
undertaken against selected annexes in BS 8458. TPC is not based of such tests.
on a common, harmonized standard. • Approvals and certifications gained in respect of systems and
components.
3 .7 D IO M – D E S IGN, I NSTA LL AT I O N, O PERAT I O N A N D
• Declaration of conformity to applicable product safety
M AI N T E NA NC E M A NUA L
directives.
The DIOM is the document that contains all the key information • Planning, Design and any specific qualifications or approvals
from the manufacturer of the water mist system. These will vary needed by the designer.
between manufacturers and with different applications even with • Nozzle maximum and minimum spacings, height, working and
the same manufacturer. These documents should be available to standby pressure.
the specifier, and AHJ to review suitability of the proposed water • Minimum design area (AMAO), minimum number of nozzles in
mist system and compliance with the design objectives. design area.
The DIOM should not be used in isolation and must reference • Discharge duration per application.
the standard to which the system has been designed. If the • Water supply requirements including details of acceptable
system is stated to comply with a specific standard, documented water quality.
evidence of compliance to all clauses, or justifications for • Installation process.
variations to clauses, must be provided. Details of the fire test • Testing and placing in service (commissioning).
protocols against which the system has been tested should be • Inspection and audit.
provided with full details of the results obtained and the details • Maintenance.
of the laboratory which undertook testing. National Annex B to • Typical hazards applicable to the fire testing (including fire
BS EN 14972-1 provides the critical list of items to be included in type and maximum fire loads).
the DIOM, such as: • Hazard description.
• Types and sizes of fire loads tested.
• Nozzle k-factor.
• Interaction with other fire systems (detection, alarm, smoke
control).

5. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/placing-manufactured-goods-on-the-market-in-great-britain

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 Using water mist systems
in buildings and structures
A guide to compliant TECHNICAL
applications GUIDANCE

4.0 Choosing a Water Mist System

4 .1 I NT R O D UCT IO N gradient. The same applies to the working tank capacity required,
Before any fire protection system is specified the methodology with often gross tank capacities being used instead.
as detailed in BS 5306 Part 0 clause 4 should be followed. BS Water mist has to date been used mostly used for asset and
5306-0 contains tables that explain the suitability of different fire business continuity purposes.
protection systems for different applications. Consultation with the relevant stakeholders should first take
Standards detail best practice and are for the guidance of place to seek approval where any protection system is being
the wise, not an avenue to ‘pick and choose’. It is not whether considered, regardless of whether the system is an elective
a system simply ‘complies’ to a standard but rather how it install (providing addition protection to an otherwise compliant
conforms to each of the clauses within. This highlights the building), to meet Building Regulations, or for property protection
importance of the DIOM in detailing the design constraints and or for business continuity purposes:
performance limitations of the proposed water mist system with • The building control authority or approved inspector.
respect to the referenced standard, supported by the evidence of • The fire authority.
fire testing and third-party certification. Equally, this is the reason • The water supply undertaker (This is usually essential to
that the system manufacturer must make the full text of the comply with Water Regulations).
DIOM available to specifiers and regulators. • The insurer(s) of the premises and premises’ contents.
One of the principal perceived benefits of water mist is its • The owners and property managers.
ability to solve a water supply or storage constraint. This subject • Residents’ associations.
it is important to clarify. As an example, for light hazard systems
for Class A fires the design is not based on achieving a water Note that the use of water mist is presently not permitted
density, as with sprinklers. It is based on the layout of the nozzles under Building Regulations. A suitable automatic fire suppression
in accordance with the DIOM, the number of nozzles within the system detailed in Regulation B3(3) is defined in Approved
design area, and the respective pressure and k-factor at those Document B as a sprinkler system designed to BS 9251 or
nozzles. Often, contractors quote the minimum water density BS EN 12845.
of the water mist system, which is only achieved at maximum The DIOM should be comprehensive enough to provide
spacing and minimum operating pressure. This is rarely possible answers to all questions from any of these stakeholders. So that
as room layouts are rarely dimensioned to fit an exact number project approvals can been given, whether from building control
of nozzles and there will always be obstructions that require or the insurer, it is essential that the specifier is provided with a
additional nozzles. In addition, the operating pressure will always full, written technical specification from the installer, authorised
be above minimum. As an example, a manufacturer claims a by the manufacturer, on how the system will be designed,
water mist density of 2mm based on 16m2 maximum spacing installed, commissioned, tested, and maintained in accordance
a minimum tested operating pressure. The layout of the room with the DIOM.
and obstructions mean that the spacing is reduced to 12m2 per
4 . 2 EFFECTIVENESS AND R ELIABILITY
nozzle, the water density increases by 2.66mm. If the pressure at
that nozzle is % above minimum, then the flow will increase by As for any fire protection installation, the system must be
square root of the increase. The water supply is based on most able to perform as designed and intended. For that, it needs
favourable hydraulic calculation that could be defined by either to be demonstrated that the system will be effective for the
the most nozzles within the design area and/or the maximum intended application. Effectiveness depends on the suitability
pressure at which they are subjected. A frequent observation of the proposed system for the application and that it has been
during third-party audit of water mist designs is that contractor designed and installed correctly so that it works as intended.
either does not determine the design area (and number of It must also be available to operate, without delay, whenever
nozzles within) correctly or understand the effect of hydraulic required.

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 Once a decision has been made that a water mist system is 4 . 3.5 SMOKE SC R UBBING
appropriate, three conditions must be satisfied: Smoke is made up of mostly solid substances entrained with
a) the system chosen must be suitable for the proposed fire toxic gases. While water mist may not be able to fully ‘scrub out’
hazard and fire load (the application). all the particulates in smoke it has been shown to be capable
b) the system must be designed, installed, and commissioned of capturing some water-soluble gases. Specific fire testing is
correctly by a competent contractor using approved required for verification of applicability and limitations as this is
equipment. not detailed in the published fire test protocols.
c) the system must be maintained so that it is ready to operate
4 . 3.6 R ED UCTION IN VISIBILITY
(available).
Water mist effect visibility that must be considered relevant to
Only when there is evidence that this has been done can the the evacuation of normally occupied areas. These are:
system be expected to perform reliably once installed. • Reduction of visibility through the mist (akin to walking in mist
Note that there is little data on either reliability or or fog).
effectiveness for water mist systems. There is extensive • Light diffraction in various directions and a loss of visual
international data for sprinklers, harmonized standards, and contrast that could lead to people within the area becoming
rigorous component certification. One of the fire engineering disoriented.
decisions in risk analysis and design is that of reliability and • Cooling and mixing with the smoke layer that reduces the
effectiveness. PD 7974 gives detailed quantitative guidance for buoyancy and causes the smoke layer to fall.
sprinklers that does not currently exist for water mist.
With these facts in mind, the system designer should specify
4 . 3 SUITA B IL ITY measures to safeguard occupants. Guidance in BS 9991 and BS
There are several factors that need to be considered before 9999 must be followed.
a water mist system is considered suitable for the building,
4 .4 WATER SUPPLIES
asset or occupant being protected. Ignoring any of these could
be deemed to evidence of negligence and in the case of life It is critical for the operation of the water mist system that the
safety systems in the UK, a breach of fire regulations. Adequate installation can provide the flow and pressure that the system
specification and due diligence should take the following into needs to operate in all scenarios.
consideration. The amount of water (and pressure) required is governed by
the fire hazard, design area, manufacturer details (DIOM), and
4 . 3 .1 F IR E T E ST PR OTO CO L A PPLI CA B I LI TY most favourable (and unfavourable) hydraulic calculations.
The proposed installation must refer to the fire test protocol If an enhanced availability system is required there must be
which has been used to validate the performance of the resilience in water supplies. Guidance is given in the standards
proposed system. This test must be relevant to the application albeit conflicts between the published UK and EN standards
being considered and carried out with the same components and remain unresolved.
systems being specified in the installation.
4 .4 .1 WATER D ISC HAR GE TIMES
4 . 3 . 2 T HIR D PA RTY EVI DENCE The minimum duration for water discharge is prescribed
A declaration of compliance is a first-party declaration but in the relevant standards and is a factor of the type of hazard
verification such as certification is a key demonstrator of long- and occupancy. For domestic dwellings this will be a minimum of
term reliability and compliant performance. This should be 10 minutes; and residential at least 30 minutes. For commercial
sought for systems and components where such schemes are and industrial light hazard occupancies it will be a minimum of
available. 60 minutes.
The water quantity required assumes that all the nozzles in
4 . 3 . 3 T E NA B IL ITY
hydraulically most favourable design areas are operating.
Tenability is governed by exposure to heat (convective, For extinguishing systems which are required for local and
conductive and radiation all have difference threshold values) and total flood applications involving flammable liquid fires, up to
the Fractional Effective Dose (FED). FED is normally determined and including 260m3, and for industrial oil cookers, the duration
by CO2 and CO levels but can also be measured by levels of by- discharge should be at least twice the time taken to extinguish
products of combustion such HCN and HCl. the fire and to prevent reignition, and a minimum of 10 minutes.
Water mist has been shown to provide tenability within For larger volumes (>260m3) this discharge time may need to
protected spaces, but dependent on the fire test protocol this increase to 60 minutes dependent on the certified test results
may be limited to temperature only. Further evidence may be from the fire test protocol.
required if tenability is a core criterium.
4 .5 VENTIL ATION CONSID ER ATIONS
4 . 3 .4 PR OT ECT IO N OF G L A ZI NG
As the mass of the water droplets decreases the droplets will
Water mist system may possibly be used for the protection be more affected by air movement (both natural and forced
of glazing but there are no published fire tests protocols for ventilation). It is essential that where ventilation is above the
verification. Any data presented by the manufacturer must limit prescribed in the fire test protocol that measures are taken
be third-party verified against as set of performance criteria to turn-off or reduce the ventilation to within the tested limit. It
acceptable to the AHJ and user. may be that a judgement must be made as to whether a sprinkler

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 system may be more appropriate (since the heavier droplet beyond those in the standards should be detailed in the DIOM. If
makes sprinklers less vulnerable to air flow). Ventilation may also these are not followed there is a significant risk that the system
delay the activation of heat sensitive nozzles through dispersion will not function as intended.
of the convective heat plume, and conductive cooling at the The water mist contractor must provide the client/specifier
frangible element surface. with a copy of their DIOM that contains the design and
installation rules for the system.
4 .6 EN C LO S UR E INT EG RI TY O F ENCLO SU RE
Particular attention should be given to the condition of the
Water mist systems used for the protection of enclosures distribution pipework. It should be confirmed that prior to
containing Class B fuels are required to have the enclosure installation, the pipework has been cleaned and is completely
sufficiently leak tight that oxygen cannot be drawn into the fire free of any sharp edges, swarf or debris that could impair the
during discharge. Openings will need to be automatically closed functional efficiency of the system.
prior to discharge of the system. Some fire test protocols permit Open and automatic nozzle systems are subject to hydrostatic
the installation of nozzles over openings to exclude oxygen if this pressure tests as required in the standards. Note that these tests
is proven in the testing. only check for pipe integrity at static pressures, not dynamic
These form part of the design and additional nozzles should pressures. Where pipe work is subject to sudden shock, for
be included in case automatic vent closure fails. This will require example an open nozzle system increasing from zero pressure to
that the water supply quantity is increased. 100 bars instantaneously, it is imperative that suitable fittings are
4 .7 NOZ Z L E P O S IT IONI NG
used where there is a change of direction, for example a bend,
Nozzle positioning is a key parameter in water mist system else the pipe may come apart at the fitting.
design. Obstructions will affect the coverage and distribution Where pumps are installed, provision should be made for
of water mist and appropriate variations of nozzle locations, as testing at full flow.
tested, and approved, should be detailed in the DIOM. Water is All valves in the critical water path (for example inlet to tank,
two dimensional (not three dimensional as gas), so is unlikely to pumps, and valves to the hazards) should be ensured as locked
penetration enclosures (such as cabinets) useless there is heat for open and/or monitored.
entrainment, or ventilation. The quality of water and filtration should be verified as within
specification for the system.
4 .7.1 NOZ Z L E HE IGHTS A ND SPACI NG The commissioning engineer must take responsibility for
Installation of nozzles at the heights and spacings which have testing all aspects of:
been validated by the nozzle manufacturer’s tests is a crucial • Electrical detection and signalling.
requirement. The maximum and minimum nozzle height and • Electrical or mechanical actuation.
spacing must be detailed in the DIOM. Installation of nozzles • Pumps and tanks and/or water storage and gas container
above or below the maximum or minimum heights is unproven vessels.
and may result in the failure of the system to perform as tested. • Valves including main control, isolation, zone, deluge and pre-
For Class A fire hazards many fire test protocols have a action as required.
maximum ceiling height of between 2.4m and 5m. Higher heights • Correct calibration of unloader valves and/or regulators as
may be permitted in the fire test protocol if the performance required.
criteria are still met. • Discharge testing and/or pump flow tests (note that for
For Class B fire hazards the height is generally in the range multiple pumps it is important that there is a provision to test
of 5m to 8m. Again, as above larger (or lower) heights must be maximum flow demand from all pumps, not just per individual
proven by testing and detailed in the DIOM. pump).
• Providing the client/specifier with a Completion Certificate
4 .7. 2 NOZ Z L E T E M PERATU RE RAT I NG S O R
stating that the system conforms to all the appropriate
D ET ECT IO N S PEC IF ICAT I O N
recommendations of the relevant British Standard and DIOM.
Where a thermal element (such as a frangible bulb) is used,
All details of deviations from these documents MUST be
the type of application will determine its temperature rating as
notified and recorded. Review by a competent auditor is
certain occupancies may generate unwanted activations if the
essential.
activation temperature is low (for example, in saunas and plant
rooms). The temperature rating selected should be 30oC above 4 .9 AVAIL ABILITY AND MAINTENANC E
the maximum ambient temperature. Higher temperature rated Correct installation of the water mist system is only the start of
elements must have been proven by third-party fire tests and its life in service. For it to be effective, it needs to be “available”
included in the DIOM. during its lifetime. Regular maintenance is required to verify
The specification of systems which are activated by separate that the environment, hazard, or occupancy have not changed
detection systems must be included in the DIOM and be the significantly over time as well as to verify that none of the
same or equivalent as those proven in fire testing. components have been tampered with or damaged.
Note that water mist nozzles are not interoperable, so that
4 . 8 I N STA L L AT IO N A ND CO MMI SSI O NI NG
if nozzles are required to be replaced, only those of the original
The installation and commissioning procedures are critical to
manufacturer can be used. Where nozzles are unavailable (for
ensure that the system is put into service as intended by the
example manufacturer has ceased trading) then it is probable
design and proven by fire testing. Additional requirements
that all the installation may become redundant.

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 The DIOM should include detailed maintenance instructions resulting in, potentially, a more efficient and effective
covering all the individual weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual on-demand maintenance as opposed to a reactive or scheduled
test procedures including additional measures required to those maintenance. The objective is to maximise availability and
detailed in the referenced standard. reduce the possibility and the time of system downtime due to a
As with many building systems the internet has increased fault which would only be observed during routine maintenance.
the adoption of remote monitoring and testing of systems to Note this function is dependent on the resilience of the internet,
report faults or the need for maintenance. The same principles interconnecting routers and servers, and the management
are being adopted by water mist suppliers. The aim is to provide software in both system control panel and maintainer off-site
notification of faults well before the annual check takes place, monitoring equipment.

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 Using water mist systems
in buildings and structures
A guide to compliant TECHNICAL
applications GUIDANCE

Annexes

1 .0 D E F INIT IO N O F PERFO RMA NCE O B JECT IVES BS EN 14972 Fixed firefighting systems. Water mist systems
• 14972-1 Design, installation and maintenance
Fire Control - limitation of fire growth and structural damages of water mist systems
(by cooling of the objects, adjacent gases and/or by pre-wetting • 14972-2 for shopping areas
adjacent combustibles) • 14972-3 for offices, school classrooms
and hotel
Fire Extinguishment - complete elimination of any flaming or • 14972-4 for non-storage occupancies
smouldering fire • 14972-5 for car garages
• 14972-6 for false floors and false ceilings
Fire Suppression - reduction in the heat release rate and • 14972-7 for low hazard occupancies
prevention of re-growth of a fire over the discharge duration • 14972-8 and -9 machinery spaces
• 14972-10 atrium protection
2 .0 PUB L IS HE D BS / E N WAT ER MI ST STA NDA RDS
• 14972-11 for cable tunnels
• 14972-12 commercial deep fat fryers
BS 8458: 2015 Fixed fire protection systems – residential and • 14972-13 for wet benches
domestic watermist systems – code of practice for design and • 14972-14 and -15 combustion turbines
installation • 14972-16 for industrial oil cookers
• 14972-17 for residential occupancies
BS 8489 Fixed fire protection systems – Industrial and commercial
watermist systems BS EN 17450 Fixed firefighting systems —
Part 1:2016 Code of practice for design and installation Water mist components
Part 4:2016 Fire performance tests and requirements Part 1:2021 Product characteristics and test
for watermist systems for local applications methods for strainer and filter components
involving flammable liquid fires • prEN 17450-2 nozzles
Part 5:2016 Fire performance tests and requirements for • prEN 17450-3 check valves
watermist systems for the protection of • prEN 17450-4 control deluge valves
combustion turbines and machinery spaces and actuators
with volumes up to and including 80m3 • prEN 17450-5 pressure switches
Part 6:2016 Fire performance tests and requirements for
watermist systems for the protection of 3.0 OTHER STANDAR D S & R EFER ENC ES
industrial oil cookers
Part 7:2016 Fire performance tests and requirements for Approved Document B: 2019 incorporating 2022 amendments
watermist systems for the protection of low Volume 1: Dwellings
hazard occupancies Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings

BS 8663 Fixed fire protection systems – Components for Automatic water mist systems for domestic and residential
watermist systems premises (Welsh Government August 2021 https://gov.wales/
Part 1:2019 Specification and test methods for watermist water-mist-systems-guidance
nozzles

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 BS 5306 Fire protection installations and equipment on premises FIA Guidance Document - Watermist pipe test guide
Part 0:2020 Guide for selection, use and application
of fixed firefighting systems and other types of fire FIA Guide to Block Plans for Watermist Installations
equipment
FIA Guidance on Additional Requirements for Watermist Systems
BS 7273 Code of practice for the operation of fire protection Protecting High-Rise Buildings
measures
Part 3:2008 Electrical actuation of pre-action water mist FM5560:2021 Examination Standard or Water Mist Systems
and sprinkler systems
Part 5:2008 Electrical actuation of water mist systems LPS1655:2015 Requirements and Test Methods for the LPCB
(except pre-action systems) Approval of Personal Protection Water Mist Systems

BS 9991:2015 Fire safety in the design, management and use of UL2167:2021 Water Mist Nozzles for Fire Protection Service
residential buildings – Code of practice
VdS3188en:2020 Water Mist Sprinkler Systems and Water Mist
BS 9999:2017 Fire safety in the design, management and use of Extinguishing Systems (High Pressure Systems) Planning and
buildings – Code of practice Installation

BS EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017 General requirements for the

competence of testing and calibration laboratories

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