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As fire safety regulations tighten and awareness of fire risks grows, many older buildings undergo assessments for improved fire protection. A key consideration is whether dry risers, which are essential firefighting systems, can be retrofitted into buildings not originally designed for them. This article explores how retrofitting dry risers works, the challenges involved, and the benefits they bring.

Understanding Dry Risers

Dry risers are vertical pipe systems that allow firefighters to pump water to upper floors during a fire. These systems are typically required in buildings over 18 metres but under 50 metres in height, where fire hoses alone may not provide adequate coverage.

Challenges of Retrofitting Dry Risers

Retrofitting a dry riser into an older building comes with several challenges:

  1. Structural Limitations – Older buildings often lack the space or structural reinforcements needed for a dry riser system. Engineers must plan pipe routes carefully to maintain the building’s integrity.
  2. Regulatory Compliance – Retrofitting work must meet modern fire safety regulations, including BS 9990:2015, which sets installation and maintenance standards for dry risers.
  3. Access to Installation Points – Engineers must place inlet and outlet valves in easily accessible locations to ensure firefighters can use them efficiently while minimizing disruption to occupants.
  4. Water Supply Considerations – Although dry risers remain empty until needed, they must connect efficiently to fire service pumps, sometimes requiring exterior modifications.
  5. Cost and Disruption – Retrofitting a dry riser involves construction work that may temporarily inconvenience occupants. Costs vary depending on the building’s layout and installation complexity.

Steps to Retrofitting a Dry Riser

Retrofitting a dry riser in an older building involves these key steps:

  1. Fire Risk Assessment – Fire safety experts determine whether a dry riser is necessary and feasible.
  2. Building Survey – Engineers evaluate the building’s structure and identify the best routes for installation.
  3. Design and Planning – Experts create a compliant system layout that aligns with BS 9990:2015 and local fire regulations.
  4. Installation – Contractors install the riser system with minimal disruption while ensuring all inlets and outlets remain accessible.
  5. Testing and Certification – Professionals conduct pressure tests to confirm the system’s functionality before issuing compliance certification.

Benefits

Despite the challenges, retrofitting dry risers significantly improves fire safety:

  • Faster Firefighter Response – A reliable water supply enables firefighters to combat fires more effectively.
  • Regulatory Compliance – Older buildings meet modern fire safety standards, reducing legal risks.
  • Better Property Protection – A functional dry riser system reduces fire damage, potentially lowering insurance costs.
  • Increased Occupant Safety – Residents, workers, and visitors benefit from improved fire protection measures.

Conclusion

Retrofitting dry risers in older buildings presents challenges, but it is a practical and effective way to enhance fire safety. With proper planning, expert consultation, and strict adherence to regulations, building owners can successfully install dry risers. Strengthening fire protection with a retrofitted dry riser system boosts compliance, safeguards lives, and improves emergency preparedness.