In warehousing and storage where produce or equipment is stored on racks and often moved using mechanical equipment, it can be tricky for personnel to get to fires when they break out.
In-rack fire sprinkler systems make it simpler to respond fast at the first detection of smoke or other signs of fire.
Learn more about fire sprinkler rack systems, the benefits of installing in-rack sprinklers, and how rack-located fire suppression systems work.
Fire sprinkler rack systems are installed using a network of piping between racks/pallets. In SA, fire sprinkler systems must be approved by ASIB (the Automatic Sprinkler Inspection Bureau) prior to installation, but East Rand Fire offers pre-approval for faster installation turnaround.
A full risk assessment conducted by a registered technician will ensure that the requirements of your shelving type and layout are considered. If you have an existing system that requires a valve overhaul or other sprinkler servicing, your technicians will be able to identify components that require replacement or repair.
For all fire sprinkler and suppression systems, East Rand Fire recommends monthly inspection by a competent member of your staff. We recommend quarterly (every three months) service intervals, with services conducted by an SAQCC-certified technician for maximum fire safety.
Our pipes are manufactured and pre-painted off-site, and epoxy-coated for the ultimate durability. Our systems fit all conventional shelving and racking systems and can easily be adapted to meet the growing needs of your facilities as your infrastructure changes and expands.
Looking for the best fire safety for your storage or warehouse facility?
Contact East Rand Fire today for a no-obligation quote.
East Rand Fire has 50 years’ experience in fire safety and solutions.
What are the benefits of a fire sprinkler rack system?
Fire sprinkler rack systems have the edge in storage facilities in that you can respond faster to fires precisely where they break out.
Advantages of a rack-installed fire fighting solution include:
The system is localised, closer than traditional overhead sprinklers, and is triggered upon fire detection (or may include a manual trigger)
In tightly packed facilities, fire spreads fast. A rack-installed system limits the possible spread while not dousing the entire premises
A system capable of delivering fire suppressing agents to a specific sector of storage is preferable to a facility-wide system that could damage goods or equipment not in the risk area
Have a custom-designed fire sprinkler rack system that is suited to the dimensions and layout of your storage facilities
An in-rack fire sprinkler is typically cheaper to install than a traditional ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) ceiling-mounted sprinkler system
What types of in-rack fire sprinkler are there?
Several kinds of in-rack fire suppression provide protection for storage facilities. These include:
This is the most common type of in-rack fire prevention in warehouses. Water is kept in piping, ready to be released in the event of fire. It is ineffective in environments where storage is kept below freezing temperatures.
Dry pipe sprinkler systems are preferred in facilities kept below freezing temperature. These systems use air or nitrogen to release water into the pipes, thus minimising the risk of freezing and burst pipes.
These systems are preferred in environments where water damage is a significant risk. They use pressurised air and are suitable for warmer and colder facilities.
These in-rack fire sprinklers are used in environments where hazardous materials such as flammable liquids make water-only systems ineffective. In addition to putting out flames, these systems help to suppress toxic smoke/vapours.
Deluge-type sprinkler systems are more common in traditional overhead installations, as they quickly release large volumes of water (rather than targeting fire suppressant to a more restricted area).
Unsure which type of in-rack fire sprinkler system your facilities need? East Rand Fire will perform a no obligation assessment.
We can provide a full system design and installation with pre-approval, which means faster turnaround and installation, and less downtime or disruption to your facilities.
