FireSERT Experimental investigation on sprinkler performance during fire in M&S commercial stores – Part1 & Part 2

The Mark and Spencer requested FireSERT to carry out a series of tests to investigate the effect of a sprinkler system on the growth and spread of a fire in commercial stores having different ceiling heights. The unit shelve carrying clothes was placed at different locations; 1- just below the sprinkler, 2- offset with back orientation to the sprinkler. This request is essential to be investigated and study the effect of the distance between the sprinkler head and top of the unit shelve in order to demonstrate the sprinkler response on the fire. The erected ceiling and sprinkler system were designed and installed by specialist engineers provided by Mark and Spencer to be as consistent as possible with the prescriptive guidance given in BS EN 12845 PLC Sprinkler Rules. The aim is to understand the impact/performance of the sprinklers in commercial buildings and develop alternative solution not existing in the code design.

Key objectives for the M&S project:

• To investigate the performance of the sprinkler system in relation to the location of the unit shelve orientation and ceiling heights, not considered in any previous investigations
• To challenge the clear space, which should be maintained below the sprinkler as, provided by the BSEN 12845 and LPC.
• To provide research report with evidence changes to legislation, regulations