Kiwa opens new state-of-the-art sprinkler test laboratory

Expanded testing services with full EN 12259-1 sprinkler testing

Kiwa Fire Safety & Security (Kiwa FSS) has opened a new, state-of-the-art sprinkler test laboratory in Zaltbommel, the Netherlands. With this expansion, Kiwa strengthens its position as a leading partner in sprinkler testing and certification across Europe. The new facility enables comprehensive testing according to EN 12259-1: an essential requirement for manufacturers seeking CE-marking for sprinkler products intended for the European market.

A key addition of the new laboratory is the capability to perform the Annex D Water Distribution Test. This test is crucial for determining sprinkler water distribution performance and forms an important step towards CE-marking. With this new capacity, Kiwa can now coordinate and deliver all EN 12259-1 tests within a single organization.

Full EN 12259-1 testing programme

Working in close cooperation with Kiwa test laboratories in Apeldoorn and Rijswijk, Kiwa FSS offers the complete testing programme required by the standard: EN 12259-1 – Fixed firefighting systems – Components for sprinkler and water spray systems – Part 1: Sprinklers

Available tests include:

Annex B Test to determine operating temperatures of fusible link sprinklers and glass bulb sprinklers (Zaltbommel)

• • Annex C Water flow test (Zaltbommel)
  • Annex D Water distribution test (Zaltbommel) New
  • Annex E Functional test (Zaltbommel)
  • Annex F Strength of sprinkler body and deflector tests (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex G Strength of release elements test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex H Leak resistance test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex I Heat exposure test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex J Glass bulb sprinkler thermal shock test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex K Corrosion tests (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex L Sprinkler coatings assessment tests (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex M Water hammer test (Rijswijk)
  • Annex N Thermal response tests (Zaltbommel)
  • Annex O Heat‑resistance test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex P Vibration test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex Q Impact test (Apeldoorn)
  • Annex R Resistance to low temperature test (Apeldoorn)

   

Supporting manufacturers on their CE-marking journey

For sprinkler manufacturers, EN 12259-1 testing is a mandatory component of the CE-marking process. Test results from Kiwa can be used for certification of sprinkler components according to the Test, Inspection and Certification Scheme (TIC-scheme) K21045 for Fire Protection Systems.
Thanks to our integrated approach, manufacturers benefit from a streamlined and transparent process, minimal coordination between parties, and consistent interpretation of standards and requirements.

Efficient testing through a fully coordinated process

After signing an agreement with Kiwa, manufacturers deliver their sprinklers to Kiwa FSS Testing in Zaltbommel. From there, Kiwa coordinates the entire test programme across its laboratories.
Where possible, tests are carried out in parallel, ensuring shorter and more predictable lead times. Depending on product type and scope, total programme duration typically ranges between 4 and 6 months.

A reliable partner for international sprinkler manufacturers

With the opening of the new test laboratory in Zaltbommel, Kiwa reinforces its long-term commitment to quality, innovation, and customer focus. International manufacturers benefit from:

• one partner for all sprinkler testing,
• short and reliable lead times,
• independent and expert support,
• a constructive and long-term collaboration,
• a modern, purpose-built sprinkler testing facility.