Throughout the UK, dry-riser valves are being targeted by vandals, who in many cases render this critical piece of firefighting equipment inoperable by fire and rescue services (FRS) in an emergency. However, a unique dry-riser outlet cover, developed by iSON Moulding, aims to bridge the gap between safeguarding the outlet valve whilst maintaining easy access for FRS.
Extensive research into the problems encountered by FRS highlighted three key concerns: general vandalism, theft of the hand wheel or worse still the entire valve, as well as unwanted items being placed in or around the valve. iSON’s dry-riser outlet valve cover addresses these problems by completely encasing the valve, acting as a preventative measure which will stop the FRS from losing critical time spent checking valves when they should be saving lives.
The new cover design is being embraced by architects who encounter issues when new buildings are prevented from being signed off by local authorities or building inspectors who insist that naked or exposed valves need to be covered. Normally this would present a real headache for the architect as there may not be space for fitting a cabinet or time to arrange for this. iSON’s valve cover is a quick and easy solution, taking only seconds to install.
Similarly, facility managers tasked with maintaining landing valves are finding this innovative cover ideally suited to supporting visual safety inspections against unwanted tampering and ensuring it remains operational and accessible in the event of an emergency. Part of the philosophy being if the valve is covered or hidden, it is less likely to be interfered with and draws less unwanted attention.
With over 50 years’ experience in injection moulding and a vast range of engineering polymers, iSON has a flexible operation in the UK that allows them to serve clients across a broad span of industry sectors. This knowledge, combined with research, development and rapid prototyping resulted in an innovative new dry-riser landing valve cover which totally encapsulates the entire body, hand wheel, removable blanking cap and chain, preventing all unwanted interference.
There are three areas of the iSON Dry Riser Outlet Valve Cover that were focused on during development: structure, fit for purpose and aesthetics:
Structure – After trials, the wall section of the cover was increased up to 3.10mm in places to improve the fundamental stability and strengthening as well as raising the flammability standards of the cover. Next, incorporated internal ribs to add further rigidity to address flexibility in areas when put under pressure. consideration was made to keep these adjustments to a minimum and therefore maintain product compatibility across a wide range
of valve manufacturing brands.
Fit for purpose – It was always going to be a challenge to navigate the trade-offs between a high level of valve protection and the ease of accessibility by Fire and Rescue Services in an emergency. The cover design consists of two halves which hinge together using a cam hook locking system, together with an interlocking tab, specifically designed for use with the
FB1 padlock.
When the cover is closed around the dry-riser outlet and FB1 padlock applied the overlap design creates a snug fit and prevents the cover from being prised apart without causing considerable damage.
Aesthetics – As a core design principle the cover’s design complements usability whilst enhancing functionality. Smooth edges and satin type grain finish promotes quality and fosters adoption, combined with an embossed ‘Dry Riser Outlet’ mark, and produced in compounded Flame Retardant UL 94 V-0 ABS Red (RAL 3002) brings the solution in line with other dry-riser accessories in the marketplace.
For more information, go to www.isonmoulding.com
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