Key Updates to UK Automatic Sprinkler Standards

The publication of BS EN 12845:2015+A2:2026 marks a significant update to the UK framework governing automatic sprinkler systems, superseding BS EN 12845:2015+A1:2019. Amendment 2 (A2) was approved by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) in January and became the active British Standard on 9 April 2026.

This update represents more than just a routine revision; it marks a fundamental shift in how sprinkler design guidance is structured and delivered. For fire safety professionals, building designers and facility managers working across the UK, understanding these changes is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining the high standards of fire protection that automatic sprinkler systems provide.

BS EN 12845 has long been the cornerstone standard for fixed firefighting systems in buildings, providing comprehensive requirements for the design, installation and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems. Sprinkler systems designed, installed and maintained in accordance with this standard help protect people and property while improving conditions for firefighters responding to an incident.

What's Changed?

One of the biggest changes is that sprinkler design guidance is no longer contained within a single document. The updated standard now refers to several supporting standards that cover specific areas in greater detail, including pump systems, specialist storage protection and seismic bracing. 

New Rules for Fire Pumps

The updated standard introduces a stronger focus on fire pump systems, now referred to as "pump sets." Detailed pump design, installation and commissioning requirements have been moved into a separate standard, EN 17451. This helps create greater consistency across projects and provides clearer guidance for pump manufacturers, installers and designers.

Specialist Storage Protection Has Moved

For warehouses and storage facilities using specialist sprinkler systems such as Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) and Control Mode Specific Application (CMSA), the design guidance has been moved into a separate standard, EN 12845-2. This means designers will now need to consult this dedicated document when working on certain storage applications.

Seismic Bracing

Whilst not applicable in the UK, the standard aligns with the EN standard to give recommendations for seismic bracing.

What Does This Mean for Stakeholders?

For most building owners, developers and project teams, the update is largely an administrative and technical alignment rather than a major change to sprinkler protection requirements. Existing sprinkler design principles remain largely unchanged, but designers will now need to reference additional standards depending on the type of project.

The result is that specialist guidance is now separated into dedicated documents that can be updated independently as technology and industry practices evolve. This modular approach offers several long-term benefits:

• Responsive Updates: Individual standards can be revised to reflect technological advances or lessons learned without requiring wholesale revision of the entire sprinkler standard suite.
• Focused Expertise: Each standard can be developed and maintained by specialists in that particular area.
• Reduced Complexity: Rather than navigating a single, increasingly complex document, practitioners can focus on the standards relevant to their specific project type.
• International Alignment: The structure facilitates harmonization with international standards and practices.

Key Takeaway

The new BS EN 12845 update primarily aims to improve clarity, consistency and alignment across sprinkler standards, rather than introducing major new design requirements.

For stakeholders, the practical impact is minimal, but it ensures that future sprinkler systems are designed using more focused and up-to-date technical guidance.

The update reflects the continued evolution of fire protection practices and the need to incorporate lessons learned, address emerging challenges and provide clearer, more accessible guidance for designers, installers and building owners. As building designs and operational requirements become increasingly complex, standards must evolve to ensure that automatic sprinkler systems continue to deliver effective and reliable protection. Our team of specialists is well versed in these latest updates and is equipped to help clients navigate this evolving landscape of fire protection design. We provide expert guidance at every stage to ensure compliant, efficient and robust sprinkler system solutions.