With the release of BS 9991:2024, there’s been growing discussion around the role of water mist fire suppression systems in residential and domestic properties. While the revised standard focuses solely on sprinkler systems, it does not prohibit the use of alternative fixed firefighting systems like water mist—especially when they’re designed and installed to rigorous standards.
iCO Products are an LPCB-certified manufacturer of residential fire suppression systems that provide highly effective, low-water fire suppression, designed specifically for homes and residential developments. Our systems are compliant with BS 8458:2015, the British Standard for water mist in domestic and residential occupancies.
BS 9991:2024 provides guidance on fire safety design in residential buildings and recommends the use of sprinkler systems in specific scenarios. However, Clause 17 of the standard makes it clear:
“This British Standard does not give recommendations for any type of fixed firefighting system other than sprinklers. Guidance on the selection and key design considerations of fixed firefighting systems is given in BS 5306-0.”
This clause allows for the use of non-sprinkler systems, such as water mist, provided the relevant standards are followed—particularly BS 5306-0:2020 and BS 8458:2015.
To ensure a water mist system is suitable for use in place of sprinklers, follow this framework:
BS 9991:2024: Identifies the need for a fixed firefighting system, defaulting to sprinklers unless an alternative is proven to meet equivalent performance.
BS 5306-0:2020: Recognizes water mist as a valid alternative to sprinklers, when compliant with BS 8458. Table 1 of this standard confirms suitability in residential and domestic applications.
BS 8458:2015: Defines the performance and design criteria for water mist systems in these settings. iCO®’s systems are developed and tested against this benchmark.
Testing & Certification: iCO® is proud to be a Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) certified manufacturer, our high pressure water mist system has been tested by a UKAS laboratory and verified by the BSI.
Q: If Approved Document B requires sprinklers, can I still use iCO® water mist?
A: Yes. Approved Document B is guidance, not regulation. The Building Regulations allow for alternative means of compliance where equivalent performance can be demonstrated. Water mist systems from iCO®, certified to BS 8458, are a recognised and approved alternative.
✔ LPCB ISO-9001-Certified manufacture for peace of mind.
✔ BSI Verified compliant with BS 8458
✔ Aligned with BS 5306-0 guidance
✔ Minimal water damage and modern, discreet design
✔ Proven performance in live fire testing and real-world applications
iCO Products
Park House
10 Park Street
Bristol
BS1 5HX
