Sprinkler Head Testing
Market leading sprinkler head testing
When it comes to fire control, commercial sprinkler systems are the most effective solution and form part of many buildings’ fire safety strategy. These sprinkler systems have a long lifespan, and so need to be maintained and tested in accordance with the LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinklers 2015 incorporating BS EN 12845, Clause 20, Annex K and LPC Technical Bulletin TB203.
The Fire Protection Association (FPA) is the market leader for sprinkler head testing and has conducted thousands of tests in our purpose-built sprinkler head laboratory. We also provide an inspection service for sprinkler pipework.
Why do sprinkler heads need to be tested?
- Over time sprinkler heads can develop defects such as damaged parts, build-up or corrosion known as loading, which can impact the effectiveness of the system in the event of a fire
- Getting your sprinkler heads tested is recommended as best practice in the LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinklers
- Improves the upkeep of systems
- May help to reduce insurance premiums or cover (depending on the insurer), if cared for in accordance with LPC Technical Bulletin TB203
Benefits of using the Fire Protection Association:
Detailed reports and excellent turnaround times
Our in-depth reports provide customers with all the necessary information to share with clients including sprinkler system test data and critical photographs. This is especially beneficial if further funding is required to replace sprinkler systems. We aim to turnaround reports within 6-8 weeks, but a rapid service is also available at extra cost.
Competitive prices
As the FPA is a not-for-profit business, we can price our service very competitively. We believe all commercial buildings should be fitted with fire sprinkler systems and that’s why we make it affordable to test that your sprinkler heads are working as they should. We even provide prepaid boxes for customers to send the sprinkler heads to us.
| Total number of sprinklers installed per system |
Number of sprinklers to be inspected based on system size |
Price |
FPA Member Price |
| Up to 5,000 |
Up to 20 heads from one system* |
£1,375 + VAT |
£1,300.00 + VAT |
| Up to 10,000 |
Up to 40 heads from one system* |
£2,450 + VAT |
£2,325.00 + VAT |
| Up to 20,000 |
Up to 60 heads from one system* |
£3,425 + VAT |
£3,250.00 + VAT |
| * Following changes to LPC Technical Bulletin TB203, Table TB203.T1 (Note 2) in September 2022 regarding sprinkler head batches, an additional charge of £350.00 + VAT is applicable for each additional batch of 5 sample sprinkler heads required for testing. |
You can find out more about becoming an FPA Member here.
LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinklers 2015 incorporating BS EN 12845
Following an update in September 2022, TB203.T1 now incorporates the following notes:
Note 1: Where there are different types of sprinkler heads installed which have been in service for 25 years, a minimum of 5 sprinkler heads of each different type shall be removed and tested.
Note 2: A batch of 20 sprinkler heads removed for testing shall consist of no more than 4 different sprinkler head types. Where more than 4 types are installed, 5 sample sprinkler heads for each additional type shall be tested (e.g., 6 different sprinkler head types would require a minimum of 30 sprinkler heads to be tested).
Note 3: Where there are sprinkler heads in the spares cabinet which are 25 years old, a minimum of 5 of these spare sprinkler heads shall be tested, in addition to the sample numbers listed in Notes 1 and 2.
Customer Quote
“We regularly use the Fire Protection Association to evaluate the condition and operational performance of sprinkler heads, their service is both efficient and cost-effective. The knowledge and experience of their technicians shows in the detailed report which receives great feedback from both our engineers and our clients” Paul Berry, Sales Director, Johnson Controls, Fire Suppression UK & Ireland
Download our fire research and testing brochure.
Download our sprinkler head testing information form.