Fire Hose Reel:
What is Fire Hose Reel?
Fire hose reels are a common safety feature in many buildings by providing an easily accessible source of water or fire retardant that can be used to quickly contain and extinguish small fires before they have a chance to spread.
Overall, a fire hose reel is an important component of a building's fire protection system and can help save lives and prevent property damage in the event of a fire.
Fire Hose Reels are designed for various applications and come in lengths of 36m or 50m and are easy to operate and maintain. They also meet or exceed the requirements of the Australian Standard AS1221.
When choosing a fire hose reel it is important to consider the size of the area that needs to be covered, as well as the length of the hose that is required.
What is a fire hose reel used for?
The fire hose reel serves as a key tool for promptly responding to fires in their early stages and is accessible to the general public. It plays a crucial role in preventing fires from spreading and causing significant damage. Typically wall-mounted, the reel contains a hose that can be swiftly deployed for extinguishing small fires. Widely utilized in schools, hospitals, offices, and industrial environments, fire hose reels provide easy access to water or fire retardant, aiding in quickly containing and suppressing fires. Overall, the fire hose reel is an invaluable piece of firefighting equipment that aids in rapid response to prevent fires from getting out of hand.
Fire Hose Reels use a variety of natural and synthetic fabrics in their construction. These materials allow the hoses to be stored wet without rotting and to resist the damaging effects of exposure to sunlight and chemicals. Modern hoses are lighter weight and this has helped reduce the physical strain on firefighters.
Who can use fire hose reels?
A fire hose reel is designed for quick-response firefighting during the initial stages of a fire and can be operated by any trained individual. However, specific individuals or employees may be required to undergo training on how to operate it, particularly in industrial or high-risk environments. While fire hose reels can be useful in fighting small fires, they may not be suitable for all types of fires. It is crucial to follow proper fire safety measures and use appropriate equipment based on the type of fire. It's worth noting that fire hoses are typically effective for paper or wood fires but may not be as effective for different kinds of fires.
How to use a fire hose reel in Australia?
To use a fire hose reel, take the following steps:
Open the main stop valve.
Pull out the hose so that it's 4m from the fire.
Turn the nozzle into the open position to discharge water.
If needed, keep turning the nozzle valve to adjust the water flow.
Direct the hose at the base of the fire.
Turn off the nozzle.
Mount the hose to the reel in even layers.
It is important to note that fire hose reels are designed to be a first-attack method to control small fires before they become out of control. For larger fires, it is recommended to call the fire department immediately. It is also essential to receive proper training and certification on the use of fire hose reels before attempting to use them.
Fire hose reel requirements
Australian regulations, require fire hose reels to meet the standards set by the Australian Standard AS1221. Businesses are responsible for maintaining and testing their fire hose reels to ensure compliance with these regulations. Following fire hose reel regulations is crucial for businesses to ensure the safety of their property and personnel in case of a fire.
Installation of fire hose reels as 2441
The system coverage concept, as defined by the Australian standard AS2441, requires the fire hose reel to be strategically positioned in the building to ensure that occupants can quickly and easily access a fire from any part of the premises. The length of hose allowed for this calculation is a maximum of 36m, with a spray range of 4m from the nozzle, and it is the system coverage that determines whether internal hydrants are necessary.
To comply with regulations, fire hose reels must be located within 4m of an exit. If this is not feasible, additional reels can be situated along the path of travel to an exit. In most cases, separate reels must be provided for every floor of the building. However, a multistorey sole occupancy unit may only require a single reel, located at the entrance/exit level.
It is imperative that fire hose reels are not located in areas that require the hose to be pulled through fire or smoke doors during use. The reels must be clearly marked with white lettering on a red sign, and placed 2m above the floor, and operational signage must be easily visible within 2m of the reel. The reel height must also adhere to regulations, falling between 1.4-2.4m.
To ensure proper functioning, the hose and hydrant valve must be accessible and free from obstruction. The design must account for how the hose will be unreeled and the reel must be mounted robustly, capable of supporting not only the weight of the apparatus but also the forces applied by the firefighting occupants. External fire hose reels must be protected by a cabinet.
Finally, if insufficient pressure is available, a water storage tank and/or a pump must be installed to boost the hydraulic system. By following these guidelines, the safety and efficiency of a building's firefighting system can be ensured.
Fire Hose Reel Types:
Fire Hose Reel 36m:
Fire Hose Reel 36 Metre Hose
Hose length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Fire Hose Reel Fire Hose Reel 36m (Slimline Quick-fit Design)
Fire Hose Reel 36 Metre Hose
Slimline Quick-fit Design
Hose length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Fire Hose Reel 36m Swing Arm:
Fire Hose Reel 36 Metre Swing Arm
Hose length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Stainless Steel 36m Fire Hose Reel:
Fire Hose Reel 36 Metre Stainless Steel
Hose length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Fire Hose Reel 50 Metre Hose
Hose length: 50 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
What is a fire hose reel used for?
How big is a fire hose reel?
