By Alan Brinson, Executive Director of the European Fire Sprinkler Network

Set up in 2003, the European Fire Sprinkler Network campaigns on behalf of its members for the widespread use of properly designed, installed and maintained fire sprinkler and water mist systems across Europe.

We have Country Managers in Belgium, France, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the UK, and work with others elsewhere.

Today most countries require sprinklers in new shopping centres, high-rise buildings, large warehouses and enclosed car parks. Since 2003 the European market has grown by two-and-a-half times.

There is scope for further growth. We see a trend to require sprinklers in new healthcare and residential buildings and where wood is used in construction.

Belgian and Dutch research has shown that sprinklers help to prevent smoke spread, cooling fire gases and reducing room overpressure so smoke no longer forces its way elsewhere in the building.

French research has shown that sprinklers and water mist enable exposed wood to be used in construction.

Firefighters in several countries demand sprinklers in large buildings to enable them to reach a fire safely.

Sprinkler manufacturers are researching warehouse fire protection for more economic solutions and for roboticised warehouses.

Governments, consultants and insurers are funding research on how to protect electric vehicles with sprinklers.

Meanwhile with cheaper sensors, companies can offer remote system inspection and testing.

Innovations such as these are often not widely accepted until they are incorporated in standards.

Since 2018 EFSN has provided the secretariat to the CEN sprinkler working group, greatly accelerating its work.

About the European Fire Sprinkler Network

With members from 18 countries, the European Fire Sprinkler Network campaigns for the widespread use of high quality fire sprinkler systems across Europe.

It works through its Managers in the largest countries and with others elsewhere. Since it began in 2003 the European sprinkler market has grown by two-and-a-half times.

This exclusive article was originally published in the August 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.