A dry riser is a system of pipework and valves that runs up through a building. The system allows firefighters to easily access water from each floor of the building.
It consists of a vertical pipe with a water inlet on ground level located on an external wall and outlets known as landing valves, which are usually located in a dry riser cabinet on each floor. The dry risers are usually located in the firefighting shaft.
A wet riser is a system of valves and pipework which is kept permanently charged with water, generally utilising pumps and tanks.
Wet risers will be found in buildings over 60 metres above ground level.
How we carry out a service and to what legal standard
Dry risers are required to have a 6 monthly visual check.
Every 12 months a water test should be carried out to 12 bar for 15 minutes.
This is a legal requirement dictated by BS9990:2015 which is the British Standard that details requirements for dry riser testing and maintenance in the UK.
The 6 monthly visual check is primarily an anti-theft or anti-vandalism check. This should be carried out by a competent person with the records stored in a safe place. The annual water test should be carried out to 12 bar for 15 minutes.