dry risers

A dry riser comprises of an inlet connection, which is an external access point at the ground level through which water can be pumped from the fire engines to outlet valves located on every floor.

Buildings with a basement at more than 10m below ground level should be equipped with wet or dry fire mains. The dry riser is maintained empty of water. Dry Risers must have fire engine access within 18 meters of the dry rise inlet box.

Dry Riser Test

• Carry out a visual inspection service of the entire system that can be accessed
• Replace Instantaneous rubber washers as required
• Check air release valve is in place and operating correctly
• Pressurise the riser with water to 10 bars measured at the inlet for a period not less than 15 minutes
• Whilst test is in progress, check entire system for any obvious leakage
• No appreciable loss in pressure (0.5 bar) shall be seen whilst the test is in progress or the test shall be failed
• Drain dry riser completely on completion of test.

Best practice for a Dry Riser Maintenance plan would be to inspect the system on a 6 month basis, and a full pressure test yearly.