Differences Between Fire Sprinkler System Designers and Installers

Design Fire Suppression Systems Best What are some differences between fire sprinkler system designers and installers? Fire sprinkler systems are a simple yet vital component of any commercial or domestic building’s fire protection system. In most cases, installers attach this system to side walls or ceilings. These systems have a water supply, sprinkler heads, and a piping system to distribute water. Sprinklers discharge water automatically whenever they detect a fire.

Contrary to popular belief, however, they do not have any smoke triggers. Since these systems extinguish or control fires, they are fire suppression and detection systems. Hiram Stevens Maxim was the pioneer behind sprinkler systems and founded them during the latter part of the 19^th century. Now, countries across the globe use these systems with commercial and residential buildings utilizing their ability to extinguish the fire.

What is a Fire Sprinkler System Designer

People often mix up fire sprinkler installers and designers. The two are vastly different and have varying responsibilities. Let us start by talking about the designers. Fire sprinkler designers are in charge of developing and designing sprinkler systems for aiding or preventing fire.

Fire sprinkler system designers’ main responsibilities include performing in depth analysis and research, gaining feedback from experts and customers and working on it, producing samples or prototypes, and collaborating with technicians and engineers.

Furthermore, fire sprinkler system designers sometimes work on design enhancements and upgrades, establish testing structures, repair and install systems, conduct maintenance checks, etc., to ensure the systems remain efficient.

Main Responsibilities of Fire Sprinkler System Designers

Mentioned below is a list of the main responsibilities of fire sprinkler system designers and the tasks their roles typically require to perform.

Instructing and coordinating public CPR educational sessions.
Collaborating with skilled professionals like HVAC and mechanical installers, electricians, etc.
Following every OSHA law and standard.
Submitting design ideas to the AHJ for approval.
Conducting in depth field surveys.
Designing site water supplies, as built drawings, and plumbing drawings, and testing them.
Reading and interpreting structural and architectural MEP drawings.

What is a Fire Sprinkler System Installer?

Fire sprinkler installers play a massive role in ensuring homes and buildings remain safe. These professionals are responsible for implementing a wide range of sprinkler systems, which include pre action, deluge, wet, dry and automatic sprinkler systems. Installers must understand blueprints and diagrams and know how to construct valves and protection piping.

Differences Between Fire Sprinkler System Designers and Installers Additionally, installers must meet certain safety regulations to ensure the system works efficiently and doesn’t harm anyone. An installer’s work often requires them to use power and hand tools. Their job requires them to use lift equipment and climb ladders for work in high places. Common skills of almost every fire sprinkler system installer include troubleshooting, mechanical, and communication skills.

What Makes Installers and Designers Different?

As their respective names suggest, fire sprinkler installers are responsible for connecting or attaching the system to a commercial or public building. On the other hand, designers focus on creating well thought out sprinkler designs to ensure they are safe and work efficiently.