Standards and watermist testing

Automist's fire performance is tested to EN 14972-17

Automist is among the first to successfully pass fire testing to BS EN 14972-17:2025, the new European standard for residential water mist systems.

This standard introduces a robust and comprehensive test protocol specifically developed for automatic nozzle systems used in residential occupancies. It reflects the latest understanding of fire development in modern homes and sets a new benchmark for performance.

Independent fire testing was carried out by Baltic Fire Laboratories, with results documented, confirming that Automist meets the fire performance requirements of EN 14972-17.

 

Transition from BS 8458 to EN 14972

The long-standing British Standard BS 8458 is currently being withdrawn and replaced by the EN 14972 series, aligning UK practice with a harmonised European framework for water mist systems.

This transition represents an evolution in testing methodology and performance criteria—not a reduction in safety requirements. The new EN 14972 standards build on the principles established in BS 8458 while introducing more detailed and scenario-based fire testing.

 

Continued Compliance and Assurance

The withdrawal of BS 8458 does not mean that existing or previously installed systems are non-compliant.

Automist systems:

  • Were designed and tested in accordance with BS 8458
  • Continue to meet regulatory and building control expectations
  • Now demonstrate effective fire performance passing tests to the latest EN 14972-17 standard

This ensures continuity for specifiers, regulators and residents, while providing confidence that Automist remains at the forefront of fire protection performance.

 

To explore Automist's compliance with BS 8458 in detail, refer to:

Automist meets BS8458 


What is a Verification Certificate?

A BSI Verification Certificate provides independent assurance of product performance. Automist earned this certification following a comprehensive expert review of its testing data and technical documentation, through a BSI service tailored for innovative products.    

 



Supporting Guidance for Meeting Building Regulations

Automist, as an Automatic Water Fire Suppression System (AWFSS), is supported by the following guidance documents to meet building regulation requirements:

  • BS 9991:2024: Fire safety in the design, management, and use of residential buildings.
    • Clause 17: Refers to BS 5306-0 for guidance on water mist systems.
    • BS 5306-0:2020 (Table 1): Confirms water mist systems are suitable for all domestic applications if they fully comply with BS 8458.
       
  • BS 7974:2019: Application of fire safety engineering principles to building design.
    • Fire engineering research confirms that in three-storey open-plan homes:
      "The system can typically perform equivalent to or better than the minimum expectations of a domestic sprinkler system conforming to BS 9251:2021."

 

Learn More

Discover more about Automist's standards compliance, rigorous component testing, and certifications in our comprehensive FAQ resource.