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Fire sprinkler system

NCC 2022 requires sprinklers above 25m and in Class 2-3 buildings 4+ storeys. AS 2118.1/4 or FPAA101D/H options. AS 1851 sets ongoing testing.

By Dan Waring. Last updated 11 June 2026. Verified 11 June 2026.

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An automatic fire sprinkler system is a network of pipes, control valves, and heat-activated heads that discharge water onto a fire at source. The NCC 2022 Volume One calls them up under Part E1; the design standard is AS 2118.

When they are mandatory (NCC 2022 Part E1):

  • All buildings over 25 m effective height: clause E1D5 (verified 2026-06-11, NCC Part E1).
  • Class 2 and 3 buildings with a rise in storeys of 4 or more and effective height at or under 25 m: clause E1D6, introduced in NCC 2019 (verified 2026-06-11, ABCB news).
  • Separate triggers apply for Class 6 (large fire compartments), Class 7a (carparks over 40 vehicles), and Class 9a/9c residential care.

Compliance standards:

NCC 2022 Specification 17 sets the applicable standard by building type:

  • AS 2118.1: general systems, covers Class 2-9 buildings (especially those over 25 m).
  • AS 2118.4: residential systems, Class 2/3 with 4+ storeys and under 25 m.
  • AS 2118.6: combined sprinkler and hydrant systems.

For Class 2/3 buildings of 4+ storeys and under 25 m, Specification 18 also permits two cost-effective FPA Australia alternatives (not for residential care buildings):

  • FPAA101D: draws from the building’s drinking water supply, removing the need for a dedicated water tapping and pumpset.
  • FPAA101H: draws from the wet hydrant riser, sharing pipework to cut cost.

Both FPAA systems unlock design concessions including reduced Fire Resistance Level requirements and increased exit travel distances (verified 2026-06-11, Spec 18, NCC 2022).

Maintenance: AS 1851 governs routine service — monthly visual checks, quarterly flow-switch tests, annual inspection of heads, pipes, and valves, plus extended services at 5, 10, 15, 25, and 30 years. The system is a scheduled item on the fire safety schedule and must be covered by the annual Fire Safety Statement in NSW.

A hydraulic engineer designs and specifies the system.

Also known as: Automatic fire sprinkler, sprinkler system.

Category: Fire safety / NCC / services.

See also

References

Last updated: 2026-06-11. Verified: 2026-06-11. Quarterly review for currency.

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