Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) - Testing for the Future (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) - Testing for the Future

Presented by: Donald Havener, AutoStore

As consumers expect online purchases with overnight delivery, Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) are rapidly replacing traditional storage solutions.

Since 2009, AutoStore has conducted over 100 small-, intermediate-, and large-scale fire tests. Through this process, AutoStore has investigated the heat release rate (HRR) of storage bin materials, the influence of storage bin geometry on fire growth rate, ignitability of plastic components, fire containment strategies, various fire suppression mediums, best practices for firefighters responding to a Top-Loading ASRS (TL-ASRS) fire, and more.

Large-scale tests have demonstrated that final extinguishment of a fire can be achieved with ceiling-level sprinklers only. Subsequent testing has refined these sprinkler system designs, reducing the required sprinkler discharge pressure.

Leveraging the data and lessons learned from testing, ASRS can be designed to limit the likelihood of a fire while incorporating fire protections systems that provide a high degree of property protection and life safety.

This presentation provides an overview of various ASRS configurations and TL-ASRS design, with relentless focus on fire prevention and fire protection designs based on rigorous testing.

Sponsorship Opportunity: Consider becoming a drink sponsor for the networking session (register as part of the event).

3:30 - 4:30 PM: Board of Directors Meeting (Members Welcome)

4:30 - 5:00 PM: Registration & Cocktails

5:00 - 6:00 PM: Dinner and Program

6:00 - 7:00 PM: Cocktails and Networking

Dinner: Chef’s Choice Buffet including soup, two salads, two entrées, starch, vegetable, dessert display, coffee, and tea. Please email program@sfpe-newengland.org with any dietary restrictions.

About the Speaker:

Donald Havener is a Fire Protection Engineer at AutoStore, where he supports global fire protection initiatives for automated storage and fulfillment technologies. He works closely with dealers, authorities having jurisdiction, and project teams to develop fire protection strategies, interpret code requirements, and provide technical guidance related to fire suppression and life safety systems. As part of the Product Safety Team, he also has the privilege of planning and executing large-scale fire testing.

Prior to AutoStore, Donald worked as a consulting fire protection engineer with Cosentini Associates where he built extensive experience in fire modeling, performance-based design, and code compliance. He is passionate about developing practical, risk-informed solutions that improve safety while supporting operational performance and innovation.

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Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) - Testing for the Future (November 05, 2026)