iMist™ Wales
At iMist™ Wales, we specialise in innovative fire protection systems prioritising safety and efficiency for our customers. Our market-leading water mist technology is designed to provide high-pressure water mist fire suppression, while minimising water damage, making it ideal for domestic and residential applications.
Fire Safety and Legislation in Wales
Fire Safety Law in Wales: What You Need to Know
Wales has been at the forefront of implementing stricter fire safety regulations to protect lives and property. Since 2016, all newly built and converted homes must be fitted with an automatic fire suppression system under Welsh law, making Wales the first UK nation to adopt this requirement.
In addition, the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) apply, ensuring that buildingowners and responsible persons take proactive measures to reduce risks and maintain fire safety standards.If you own, manage, or live in a building with two or more dwellings in Wales, these rules affect you.
Key Fire Safety Requirements in Wales
Mandatory Suppression Systems
Since 2016, all new and converted domestic dwellings must be fitted with a fire suppression system.
Fire Risk Assessments
The Responsible Person (owner, landlord, or managing agent) must ensure riskassessments, evacuation routes, and suppression systems are up to date.
Competency
Only qualified professionals can carry out fire risk assessments.
Care Homes & High-Risk Properties
Subject to stricter fire safety management and evacuation planning.
Do You Need a Fire Suppression System?
You’ll need a system if your property is:
- A new-build or converted dwelling (legal requirement since 2016).
- A multi-occupancy property such as flats or HMOs.
- A care home or residential facility housing vulnerable residents.
How iMist™ Helps You Stay Compliant in Wales
At iMist™, we design, manufacture, and install innovative fire suppression systems that help Welsh properties comply with the latest fire safety laws — without the limitations of traditional sprinklers.
Our high-pressure mist systems:
- Use 80% less water than sprinklers, reducing flood risk and property damage.
- Are compact and flexible, making them ideal for retrofits and historic buildings.
- Meet BS:8458 standards for domestic and residential fire suppression.
- Are already in use in homes, flats, care facilities, and heritage properties across Wales.
| Feature | iMist™ | Other Watermist | Traditional Sprinklers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Supply | Mains Fed - No Stored Water | Yes | Tank Fed - Stored Water |
| Water Usage | Very Low - 8lpm | Very low | High - 51lpm |
| Retrofit Capability | Excellent - flexible stainless steel pipework | Often not | Limited - rigid pipework |
| In-House Service & Design | Fully In-House | No | Often outsourced |
| Suitable for Domestic Applications | Yes | Often suitable for small domestic | Often not |
| Suitable for Residential Applications | Yes | Often not | Yes |
| Suitable for Commercial Applications | COMING SOON | Often not | Yes |
What are the fire regulations in Wales and England
Fire Safety Law in Wales and England
The Fire Safety Act 2021 applies across both Wales and England. In Wales, this sits alongside the 2016 Welsh legislation requiring sprinklers or mist systems in all new dwellings.
The Act clarifies that the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to:
- Building structure and external walls (including cladding and balconies).
- Flat entrance doors leading to common parts.
These must all be included in the fire risk assessment. Even if the work is outsourced, the responsible person (employer, freeholder, or management company) remains legally accountable.
Enforcement is carried out by local fire and rescue services, who can issue enforcement or prohibition notices. Non-compliance can result in prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Still the backbone of fire safety law across England and Wales, the FSO requires responsible persons to:
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments.
- Implement and maintain fire safety measures.
- Ensure safe escape routes and working fire equipment.
- Provide fire safety training and information.
It applies to:
- All non-domestic premises, including workplaces and public buildings.
- Multi-occupancy residential buildings, including common areas of flats.
Failure to comply risks severe penalties, as well as jeopardising resident and occupant safety.
How iMist™ systems help with Fire Suppression in Wales
iMist™ systems, a type of water mist fire suppression technology, provide numerous advantages for fire safety in England. These systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency, environmental friendliness, and suitability for various applications.
Here’s how they contribute to fire safety:
Effective Fire Suppression
iMist™ systems utilise high-pressure water mist to suppress fires. The fine mist cools the flames and surrounding gases, reducing the temperature and controlling the fire more effectively than traditional sprinkler systems.
Minimised Water Damage
The fine mist produced by iMist’s misting solution uses significantly less water compared to conventional sprinklers. This reduces water damage to property and mitigates the risk of structural damage, which is particularly beneficial in residential buildings and heritage sites.
Safety in Occupied Spaces
Due to the reduced water usage and the mist’s ability to cool and suppress smoke, iMist™ misting systems can be safer for occupants during a fire. The reduced smoke and heat can help improve visibility and air quality, aiding evacuation efforts.
Versatility and Adaptability
iMist™ systems are adaptable and can be installed in a wide range of environments, including residential properties, commercial buildings, and industrial sites. They are suitable for retrofitting into existing buildings due to their flexible design and smaller pipework.
Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations
These systems help buildings comply with stringent fire safety regulations in England. They are often used in buildings where traditional sprinkler systems are impractical or less effective, such as in older buildings with aesthetic or structural constraints.
Environmental Benefits
iMist™ systems are environmentally friendly. The reduced water usage not only minimises water waste but also lessens the environmental impact of fire suppression efforts.
Integration with Modern Fire Safety Strategies
iMist™ systems can be integrated into broader fire safety strategies, including smoke alarms, fire curtains, and other passive fire protection measures, enhancing overall safety.
Examples of Application
- Residential Buildings: Particularly in high-rise apartments and care homes, water damage and rapid evacuation are critical concerns.
- Heritage Sites: Where preservation of the building fabric is paramount, and water damage from traditional sprinklers would be detrimental.
FAQs
Do all new homes in Wales need fire suppression systems?
Yes. Since 2016, the Welsh Government made it mandatory for all new and converted homes to have an automatic fire suppression system installed. This includes houses, flats, and care homes. Wales was the first UK nation to introduce this requirement.
What type of fire suppression systems are accepted in Wales?
The legislation does not prescribe one specific system, but it does require compliance with recognised fire safety standards. iMist™ water mist systems are fully tested and designed for domestic and residential settings, making them an ideal compliant solution across Wales.
How does iMist™ differ from traditional sprinklers in Welsh homes?
Unlike traditional sprinklers, iMist™ systems use up to 80% less water. This reduces the risk of water damage, which is particularly important in Wales where there are many older and heritage properties. They are also easier to retrofit into existing buildings without major disruption.
Are care homes in Wales legally required to have fire suppression systems?
Yes. Due to the vulnerability of residents, care homes must comply with stringent fire safety legislation. Automatic fire suppression systems such as iMist™ play a vital role in meeting these requirements by ensuring a safer environment for residents and staff.
How do fire safety inspections work in Wales?
Local fire and rescue authorities enforce compliance with fire safety regulations. They carry out inspections and can issue enforcement notices if a property fails to meet legal standards. Having a compliant system like iMist™ in place helps property owners and managers meet these obligations.
Can iMist™ systems be installed in older or listed buildings in Wales?
Yes. Thanks to their compact, flexible design and minimal water use, iMist™ systems are well-suited for heritage and older buildings found across Wales. They can be installed with minimal disruption and without damaging historic features.