Wet and Dry Risers
What is the difference between a dry riser and a wet riser?
A Dry Riser is a system of valves and pipework which enables the Fire Service to pump water into an inlet valve outside the building towards outlet valves inside the building. They will take hoses into the building and connect these to the required outlet valve. The pipework remains empty until the Fire Service fill the system with water.
A Wet Riser is a similar system of valves and pipework which are kept permanently charged with water.
Where do you find dry / wet risers?
Dry risers will be found:
- in buildings over 18 metres above ground level
- in low level buildings where there are excessive distances from entrances (60m)
Wet risers will be found in buildings over 60 metres above ground level.
Service and maintenance
Risers are prone to neglect and vandalism. You must ensure that your riser systems or hydrants are working properly. There are severe penalties should the rising main fail to work for the Fire Service. Leaking water from wet riser or dry riser outlets could also cause considerable damage to your property.
Dry and wet riser systems should be serviced in accordance with the BS5306 Part 1. Under this standard, dry and wet risers should be:
- Visually inspected every 6 months
- Serviced and pressure tested annually
