Dry Riser Servicing Sequence: Annual Pressure Test Explained

Why Dry Riser Servicing Is Necessary

Dry riser servicing is an important process in fire safety for high-rise buildings and locations where firefighter access may be limited. Although a newly installed system can operate effectively for a very long time, installation alone is not enough to remain compliant with BS 9990:2015 standards. A dry riser must undergo a wet pressure test every 12 months, as well as a visual inspection every 6 months. External factors may affect its performance and reliability during a fire emergency. Routine inspections are therefore essential to ensure the dry riser system remains fully operational.

There are two types of servicing that should be carried out in accordance with BS 9990:2015.

A visual inspection is typically completed within 30 minutes, depending on the size of the building. Engineers inspect the dry riser system and record any defects or non-compliances. The annual pressure test typically takes around 30 minutes to one hour.

Choosing a Competent Dry Riser Contractor

When appointing a dry riser contractor, the following should be considered:

• Proven experience with dry riser systems, including case studies and a history of completed services

• Competent engineers with CSCS cards as a minimum

• Site-specific risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)

• Recognised health and safety accreditations, such as CHAS, BAFE, or equivalent

• The minimum insurance requirements are Employers’ Liability of £10,000,000, Public Liability of £5,000,000, and Product Liability of £5,000,000

What Happens Before the Annual Test?

When the certificate is due to expire, you should get in touch with a competent dry riser company to schedule the dry riser servicing. The building manager would need to guarantee access for the engineers, so that they can carry out the test properly. If residents require notice, this should be given in advance. Parking may also need to be arranged near the breeching inlet, so the engineers can access the required area safely and without delay.

Video: Dry Riser Servicing and Annual Pressure Test Sequence

The video below shows a typical dry riser annual pressure test sequence, including the connection of testing equipment, system pressurisation, and draining. It helps building managers, responsible persons, and facilities teams understand what to expect during dry riser servicing.

Although the video demonstrates the general process, every dry riser system should be assessed individually. Access arrangements, system layout, valve condition, pipework age, and previous defects can all affect how the test is carried out.

So, What Happens on the Day of the Annual Test?

For dry riser servicing, the annual pressure test typically takes around 30 minutes to one hour. We use testing equipment from the engineer’s van; therefore, the vehicle must be positioned close to the breeching inlet, usually within 18-metres. While the process is controlled and professional, some noise from the pumping equipment should be expected.

Access to the relevant areas of the building is required, but site supervision is not normally necessary once access arrangements have been agreed. Once access has been granted and the engineers have signed in, the next step is to check the dry riser system before the pressure test takes place. This includes checking the following:

• Breeching inlets and caps
• Outlet valves on all floors
• Landing valve boxes and signage
• Drain valves
• Air release valves
• Evidence of damage
• Corrosion
• Vandalism
• Obstruction

Once the system has been checked and visually inspected, it is slowly filled with water. The test starts at 4 bar. If the system holds 4 bar pressure and the pressure does not drop, this indicates that the system has no severe leaks. The pressure is then slowly increased until it reaches 12 bar pressure. Once the system reaches 12 bar, the pressure is held for 15 minutes.

BS 9990:2015 states: “The system should be completely charged with water to a pressure equal to its design operating pressure measured at the inlet for a period of at least 15 min. During this period, an inspection of the system should be made to check whether there is any leakage of water at any of the joints or landing valves. If any leaks are identified, appropriate remedial action should be taken, and the system should be retested.”

This test confirms the integrity of the pipework, joints/couplings, valves, and fittings under operational conditions. All inspections and tests must be carried out by a competent and suitably trained contractor.

After the wet test, one of two outcomes will occur:

Pass: You’ll receive a BS 9990:2015 compliance certificate confirming the date of inspection and that the system meets the required standards. This certificate should be retained as part of the building’s fire safety records and made available upon request by Building Control, Fire and Rescue Authorities, or insurers. The certificate should ideally be issued on the same day. Maintaining accurate records demonstrates compliance and provides assurance that the system is fit for purpose.

Fail: The dry riser engineer will discuss any issues found and outline the repairs needed to achieve compliance. A follow-up test can then be scheduled once remedial work has been completed.

What Happens If the Dry Riser Fails?

If a dry riser system fails inspection or pressure testing the defect will be reported immediately to the responsible person, usually within few hours or on the same day. Where required, the local Fire and Rescue Service may need to be informed, and the system should be considered impaired until repairs are completed.

You should receive a clear remedial report with photo evidence detailing the works required to return the system to full compliance. Remedial works should be prioritised without delay. For a detailed overview of dry riser remedials, please see: Dry Riser Remedials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a dry riser test involve?

Annual testing involves connecting a water source, pressurising the system (usually to 12 bar), and checking for leaks, pressure loss, and valve function.

How often should a dry riser be tested?

Dry risers must be visually inspected every 6 months and pressure tested annually in accordance with BS 9990:2015.

What happens if a dry riser fails inspection?

If defects are found, the system must be repaired immediately. Failure to maintain a working dry riser may lead to enforcement action and could affect building insurance.

Need dry riser servicing or an annual pressure test?

Our experienced engineers carry out dry riser inspections, wet pressure testing, certification, and remedial works in accordance with BS 9990:2015. Contact us today to arrange your dry riser service and keep your building compliant.