Fire Testing & Commissioning: Inside A Sprinkler System Commercial Installation
Installing a sprinkler system commercial setup involves much more than fitting pipes and sprinkler heads. Every stage must meet strict regulatory and safety standards. In the UK, all commercial fire protection systems must comply with BS EN 12845 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Here’s what to expect at every stage of the journey.
What fire safety assessment is needed before a sprinkler install?
The process begins with a detailed fire risk assessment tailored to your premises. Whether you operate a warehouse, office, manufacturing site or hospitality venue, the assessment must:
- Identify specific risks such as flammable storage areas or high ceilings
- Evaluate the water supply to determine if a tank and pump are required
- Align with national fire safety codes and building regulations
- Recommend the most suitable system: wet pipe, dry pipe, or pre-action
If you skip this step, you risk ending up with a sprinkler system commercial layout that doesn’t perform properly or meet legal requirements.
Summary of installation stages
Every commercial project follows a core sequence:
- Risk assessment and supply planning
- Custom system design
- On-site installation
- Commissioning with full documentation
Following this structure ensures your building is protected and compliant without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Ask Radfire for a tailored quote
Fill in a short form on our Sprinkler Cost Guide page with your floor plans and system details. We’ll come back with pricing specific to your building.
How is a sprinkler system commercial design customised?
A solid design ensures your sprinkler system commercial installation delivers the required coverage, pressure, and coordination with your existing infrastructure. It typically involves:
- Strategic placement of heads to avoid blind spots
- Pipe routing that maintains pressure and flow
- Accurate component sizing for optimal performance
- Coordination with lighting, HVAC, and building layout
The design phase determines how reliably the system will perform if a fire breaks out.
What happens during sprinkler system commercial installation?
Installers follow detailed engineering drawings to build the system exactly as specified. They:
- Work alongside other trades to keep the project on schedule
- Use precision tools to avoid leaks at connections and joints
- Connect the sprinkler system to fire alarms and building management systems
They also adapt plans on-site if mechanical obstructions or space limitations arise.
What does commissioning a sprinkler system involve?
Commissioning is a formal process that verifies the installation functions under real-world conditions. It includes:
- High-pressure testing to confirm pipework integrity
- Verifying that pressure and flow rates match system design
- Checking that alarm and suppression systems are correctly linked
- Conducting a controlled sprinkler head discharge if needed
This process is typically observed by commissioning engineers and building authorities. A full documentation pack, including inspection logs and certifications, is provided at the end.
Looking for real-world examples?
Want to see how we’ve delivered successful systems in action? View our case studies to see previous commercial installations.
What happens during commercial sprinkler system commissioning?
During commissioning, every part of the system is reviewed for function and compliance:
| Step | Description |
| Hydrostatic testing | Pipes are filled with water at high pressure to verify there are no leaks. |
| Flow testing | Ensures water reaches every area at the correct rate and pressure. |
| Alarm link check | Confirms valves, flow switches, and alarms communicate properly. |
| Live head test | Verifies the spray pattern matches engineering drawings. |
Once approved, the sprinkler system commercial install becomes part of your building’s safety infrastructure.
How long does sprinkler commissioning take?
Commissioning typically takes between one and three days for most standard commercial buildings. Larger or more complex properties such as multi-storey offices or facilities with storage tanks and pumps may require additional time. The commissioning timeline also depends on how well the installation team executed the initial fit-out, as issues identified at this stage can prolong sign-off.
What problems delay fire sprinkler commissioning and how do you avoid them?
Several preventable issues can cause failed tests or delays:
- Debris in the pipes from poor flushing routines
- Incorrect flow calculations during design
- Incomplete alarm system integration
- Lack of signed-off documentation
Choosing experienced contractors helps avoid commissioning delays and costly rework.
What are the costs if sprinkler commissioning fails?
Delays in commissioning can cause costly setbacks. These include:
- Missed occupancy dates
- Costly rework or remedial installation
- Delayed insurance cover
Commissioning delays can also lead to additional costs such as full pipe flushing (£1,500–£3,000) or system rework, which may cost £10,000 or more depending on building size and complexity.
Need guidance on system pricing? Use our Sprinkler Cost Guide to upload your floor plans. We’ll return a tailored quote based on your needs.
What documentation is required for handover?
To complete the commissioning process and meet regulatory compliance, a full documentation pack must be submitted. This typically includes:
- Pressure test and flow test reports
- Alarm integration verification
- Finalised ‘as-fitted’ engineering drawings
- Certification of installation (e.g., FIRAS or IFC)
- Maintenance and inspection schedule
This paperwork is often required by Building Control, insurers, and facilities managers before a building can open to tenants or the public.
Why does commissioning matter?
Commissioning confirms your sprinkler system commercial installation meets both regulatory and performance standards. It helps:
- Secure insurance cover
- Avoid legal compliance issues
- Establish reliable emergency response
A well-documented commissioning process also supports future servicing or upgrades.
How do sprinklers support long-term safety planning?
Once your system is live, it becomes a key part of your building’s fire risk management. Accurate records:
- Help insurers assess cover
- Speed up future inspections
- Support resales or tenant agreements
Involving your installer early allows for better identification of space or coordination challenges.
Why partner with Radfire for commercial sprinkler system installs?
Commercial sprinkler commissioning is a critical final step and it’s where Radfire sets itself apart. Our team brings over 17 years of experience installing, testing, and signing off compliant fire protection systems across a wide range of commercial sites.
From design to documentation, we make sure your sprinkler system commercial installation performs exactly as intended, so you can open with confidence, meet your obligations, and avoid costly delays.
Need support or pricing? Contact our team to arrange a site visit or request expert commissioning support.
