Who is FM, and why does it matter?
FM, formerly FM Global, is a commercial property insurer that focuses on loss prevention. Its engineers publish Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets that set out how sprinkler protection should be designed and installed, and FM Approvals tests and certifies the products. For a facility insured by FM, the insurer's engineers typically review the sprinkler protection against those data sheets, which call for FM Approved products where they are available.
The case for sprinklers themselves is clear. FM Approvals reports that the average loss at locations without sprinklers was nearly six times greater than at adequately sprinklered locations. Insurers want the sprinklers that protect their clients to be tested to a demanding standard.
Why storage areas get extra attention
Warehouses with high-piled or racked storage have a lot of combustible material in a small footprint, and fire can spread quickly. The sprinkler has to be suited to the commodity, the storage height and the ceiling. FM groups its sprinklers into storage, non-storage and special protection categories, and a head approved for light-hazard, non-storage use cannot be assumed to be suitable for storage protection. ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) sprinklers are a common choice for high-piled storage because they are designed to suppress a fire at an early stage rather than only control it.
What insurers and clients usually ask to see
The FM Approval certificate for each sprinkler model on the project
The model, SIN, K-factor, temperature rating, orientation and finish of every head
Design and installation records showing the system follows NFPA 13 and the relevant FM data sheets
A plan for spare sprinklers and a sprinkler wrench, and for inspection and maintenance
Common mistakes
Treating UL Listed as the same as FM Approved. They are separate approvals. A head may carry one, the other or both.
Ignoring the application. Make sure the approval covers storage or non-storage use as required.
Using a decorative finish in a corrosive area. FM notes that standard decorative finishes such as brass, chrome and paint are for decoration only and are not FM Approved specifically for corrosive environments. Corrosive areas need a sprinkler approved for special protection.
Mixing products without checking. Replacement heads should match the approved model and rating.
A simple plan for a new project
Ask your broker or insurer for the sprinkler requirements early.
Put the FM Approved requirement into the project specification.
Ask suppliers for certificates before you order, not after delivery.
Keep the certificates and datasheets in the project file for inspection.
Requirements vary by insurer, country and project, so always confirm them with your insurer and the local authority.
Need FM approved sprinkler heads?
NONFIR supplies FM approved sprinkler heads for industrial and commercial projects. Browse the FM approved sprinkler range or contact us with your project details.
