Maximizing Safety: Understanding Fire Hose Reel Requirements, Installation, and Usage Tips
Fire Hose Reel:
What is a Fire Hose Reel?
Fire hose reels are a standard safety feature in many buildings, offering an easily accessible source of water or fire retardant to quickly contain and extinguish small fires before they can spread.
In essence, a fire hose reel is a crucial part of a building's fire protection system, helping to save lives and prevent property damage during a fire.
Fire hose reels are designed for various applications, available in lengths of 36m or 50m, and are simple to operate and maintain. They also meet or exceed the Australian Standard AS1221 requirements.
When selecting a fire hose reel, it is important to consider the size of the area to be covered and the needed hose length.
What is a fire hose reel used for?
A fire hose reel is an essential tool for quickly addressing fires in their initial stages and is available for public use. It is vital in stopping fires from spreading and causing extensive damage. Usually mounted on walls, the reel holds a hose that can be rapidly deployed to extinguish small fires. Commonly found in schools, hospitals, offices, and industrial settings, fire hose reels offer easy access to water or fire retardants, helping to swiftly contain and suppress fires. Overall, the fire hose reel is a crucial piece of firefighting equipment that facilitates a rapid response to prevent fires from escalating.
Fire hose reels are constructed using various natural and synthetic fabrics. These materials enable the hoses to be stored while wet without rotting and to withstand the harmful effects of sunlight and chemicals. Modern hoses are lighter, which has reduced the physical burden on firefighters.
Who can use fire hose reels?
Fire hose reels are intended for rapid firefighting in the early stages of a fire and can be used by anyone who has received training. Nonetheless, certain individuals or employees might need to undergo specific training on their operation, especially in industrial or high-risk settings. Although fire hose reels can be effective for small fires, they may not be suitable for all fire types. It is essential to adhere to proper fire safety protocols and utilize the right equipment according to the fire type. It is important to note that fire hoses are generally effective for fires involving paper or wood but may not work well for other types 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.
Fire hose reels mustn't be located in areas that require the hose to be pulled through fire or smoke doors during use. The reels must be 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 and 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?
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