FAQ
Facts, Fallacies and Frequently Asked Questions
Common Fallacies and Facts
Fallacy: The sprinkler rules are written by the ASIB.
The sprinkler rules are based on internationally accepted codes and standards and are adapted for South African building construction techniques and climatic conditions. The current rules are jointly approved by a committee and are, therefore, acceptable to many international bodies.
Fallacy: Sprinklers cause water damage.
A sprinkler system will deposit about 10% of the water the fire brigade would use on the same sized fire. Due to the rapid response of a sprinkler system under a fire condition, the fire is usually controlled or suppressed at its incipient stage. An average of 3 to 6 sprinklers operate in over 60% of recorded fires within correctly sprinkler protected premises.
Fallacy: All the sprinklers operate when a fire is detected.
Each sprinkler is an individual heat sensitive element. It is not unknown to have remote sprinklers operate under a fire condition but this is usually due to excessive roof venting.
Fallacy: The liquid in the sprinkler bulb puts the fire out.
The sprinkler head is connected to a network of pipes that are normally charged with water and connected to what is deemed as an acceptable source of supply. The liquid is heat sensitive and expands when heated under a fire condition to the extent whereby it cannot be contained. The bulb ruptures and releases the seals thus allowing water to flow from the sprinkler head in a predetermined distribution pattern onto the seat of the fire.
Fallacy: Sprinklers are subject to premature operation!
The official failure rate is internationally accepted as one sprinkler in sixteen million.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Certificate of Competency?
The ASIB sets an exam annually for persons within and outside the sprinkler industry. This consists of closed book and open book questions and solving problems relating to hydraulic calculation. The pass mark is 90%. There are less than 65 certificates issued at this stage.
Which Rules, Codes or Standards are used for South Africa?
The 9th Edition Rules by the FOC were used between 1954 and 1970. ASIB 10th Edition Rules were published in South Africa in 1970 and were used between 1970 and 2009. The current rules used, The 11th Edition Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations, are based on over one-hundred-and-fifty years of fire experience and tests. They are internationally acceptable and are updated in accordance with international standards on an annual basis.
Why should I have my sprinkler system inspected?
In accordance with SABS 0287 an inspection for a sprinkler system is required every 13 weeks. In terms of the ASIB 10th and 11th Edition, a biannual inspection is required by a suitably qualified person or company. ASIB represents this. To have many inspection authorities or individuals means that the lowest standard will always prevail as this will be seen as "economic". ASIB issues factual reports in order to prevent fire losses.
What relationship is "number of sprinklers installed" on the installers listing to my choice of sprinkler installer?
During the previous year of listing our inspectors attain knowledge of the installer's ability to correctly fabricate, install and design sprinklers. This is used as a guide to the rating of the installer. Some installers specialise in "special risks" more so than sprinkler installations; this company would have a low number of sprinklers installed. It is another general guide for the client to assess the type of installer he may require for the job in hand.