Wet risers are an essential component of fire safety systems in larger buildings. These crucial fire protection systems ensure that firefighters have the much-needed immediate access to a reliable water supply required during a fire emergency. 

The importance of wet risers is especially noticeable in high-rise buildings, where rapid access to a water supply on upper floors can make all the difference in controlling and extinguishing fires. By facilitating efficient fire suppression during critical circumstances, wet risers are extremely helpful in protecting lives and property. 

Unsure of what a wet riser is, or whether your building may need one? 

We’re here to explain how wet risers work when they’re needed and why they might be the ideal fire protection solution for your building. Whether you manage a commercial property such as an office building, own a high-rise block of flats, or simply want to know more about fire safety, we’re here to unpack everything about wet risers so that you can make informed choices.

What is a wet riser?

A wet riser is a vital fire protection system that is made up of vertical pipes running throughout a building. Wet risers are designed to ensure that a constant, pressurised water supply is always on hand in case of emergencies. 

These systems allow firefighters to quickly connect their hoses to designated outlets on each floor, usually located in areas such as stairwells or lobbies, and provide immediate access to water in the event of a fire. If your building is a high-rise or a more complex structure, having a wet riser can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes for firefighters to access water, ultimately saving lives and property quicker. 

Arguably the main necessary feature of a wet riser system is its ability to maintain consistent water pressure at all times. This is essential, so that when firefighters come to connect their equipment, there is sufficient force to propel the water to the higher levels of a building, enabling effective firefighting even in challenging conditions. 

These systems are built with robust materials and engineered to handle the demands of continuous pressure, all whilst preventing leaks and ensuring reliability in the moments that matter most. 

How does a wet riser work?

Unlike dry risers, which remain empty until they are needed, wet riser systems maintain a constant water supply within their pipes. This is usually supplied from a dedicated water tank or the building’s mains water supply and is constantly pressurised for adequate water flow when needed. In the event of a fire, firefighters connect their hoses to the wet riser outlets on the appropriate floor, accessing the water supply instantly so that they can combat the fire without delay. 

Curious about how the water pressure works? The pressurised water within the wet riser system is typically monitored by a pressure gauge. This pressure gauge will then alert building management or maintenance personnel if there’s a drop in pressure, as this could be an early sign of a leak or issue with the water supply. If this happens, the wet riser system should be checked immediately to ensure proper functioning. Regardless of alerts, we recommend regular checks of the pressure gauge to ensure that your building’s wet riser system is always operational. 

When do you need a wet riser?

Building regulations typically mandate the installation of wet risers in high-rise buildings, usually those over 50 meters tall. This is because, in taller structures, the time it takes to pump water up a dry riser could be critical in controlling a fire. In a fire emergency, every second counts. Wet risers are also commonly used in buildings with complex layouts or high-risk occupancies, such as hospitals and hotels, where rapid-fire response is essential.  

It's worth knowing that while building regulations often specify the minimum requirements for wet riser installations, it can be beneficial to install them in buildings even if they're not mandatory. This is particularly true for buildings with large floor areas or those containing high-value assets, where a faster response to a fire can significantly reduce potential damage and losses.

Wet riser vs. dry riser

Both wet and dry riser systems are key parts of fire protection, and both serve the purpose of providing a water supply for firefighting operations. The difference lies in how they operate. As mentioned earlier, wet risers are constantly filled with water, ensuring immediate availability in case of a fire. Dry risers, on the other hand, remain empty until activated by the fire service, which minimises the risk of leaks and water damage. The choice between wet and dry risers depends on factors such as building height, occupancy type, and potential risks.  

Another difference between wet and dry risers is their maintenance requirements, as wet risers require more frequent inspections and maintenance due to the constant presence of water, which can lead to corrosion or leaks over time if improperly maintained. Dry risers, being typically empty, have lower maintenance needs, but still need to be regularly checked for any blockages or damage that could impact their operation when needed.

What are the benefits of a wet riser?

Wet risers offer many benefits for fire protection. The most significant advantage is firefighters having immediate access to water, meaning they can tackle fires quickly and minimise damage. Wet risers are also relatively simple to operate and maintain, requiring less intervention from firefighters and streamlining their response. The constant presence of water ensures reliability, eliminating any delay in getting water to the fire.  

All in all, wet risers contribute to a real sense of safety and security for building occupants and owners. Knowing that there's an instantly accessible water supply for firefighting can provide reassurance, especially in high-rise buildings where evacuation could take longer. This peace of mind is particularly important in buildings like hospitals or care homes, where occupants may have mobility issues.

Your Trusted Partner for Wet Riser Solutions

At Magni Fire, we specialise in the installation and maintenance of wet riser systems, ensuring your building is equipped with a reliable and compliant fire protection solution. 

Our team of experts can assess your building's requirements and recommend the most suitable fire protection system to meet your unique needs. Contact us today to find out more about our services, or read more about wet riser systems here.