The Complete Fire Hose Reel Guide: Requirements, Installation, and How to Use
- Fire Products Direct
- 12 hours ago
- 10 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
A fire hose reel is a fixed fire-fighting system consisting of a cylindrical drum holding a flexible hose, connected to a building's water supply. It is a crucial first-attack tool for quickly containing small fires before they spread.
Fire hose reels are designed for Class A fires (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, textiles, and most plastics). They are available in standard lengths of 36 metres or 50 metres. Installation must comply with Australian Standards AS1221 (for the reel) and AS2441 (for installation), requiring strategic positioning, clear signage, and specific mounting heights.
The Importance of Fire Hose Reels in Building Safety
Fire hose reels are a standard safety feature in many buildings, offering an easily accessible source of water to contain and extinguish small fires before they can spread quickly. They are a critical first-attack firefighting tool, helping to save lives and prevent property damage. In essence, a fire hose reel is a crucial part of a building's passive and active fire protection system.
This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about fire hose reels, from their definition and uses to the specific installation requirements under Australian Standards AS1221 and AS2441. Whether you are a building owner, a facility manager, or a safety officer, this guide will provide you with the essential information to ensure your building is properly equipped and compliant.
What is a Fire Hose Reel?
A fire hose reel is a crucial part of a building's fire protection system, offering an easily accessible source of water to quickly contain and extinguish small fires before they can spread. In essence, it is a fixed fire-fighting system consisting of a cylindrical drum holding a flexible hose, connected to a water supply.
Fire hose reels are designed for various applications and are available in standard lengths of 36 metres or 50 metres. They are simple to operate and maintain, and must meet or exceed the Australian Standard AS1221 requirements. The reel provides a controlled jet of water, allowing the user to fight a fire from a safe distance.
Choosing the right fire hose reel is important, and you should consider the size of the area to be covered and the needed hose length when making your selection. Fire hose reels are constructed using various natural and synthetic fabrics that enable them 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 users.
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.
Fire hose reels are most suitable for Class A Fires, commonly caused by normal combustibles like paper, textiles, wood, most plastics, and rubber. They are commonly found in schools, hospitals, offices, warehouses, and industrial settings where these materials are present. The reel provides easy access to water, helping to swiftly contain and suppress fires.
Fire Hose Reels vs. Fire Hydrants
It's important to distinguish a fire hose reel from a fire hydrant. A fire hose reel is a smaller, wall-mounted unit connected to the building's water supply for use by occupants. A fire hydrant is a larger, external water supply point used by professional firefighters with larger hoses and higher water flow requirements.
Fire Hose Reels vs. Fire Extinguishers
Fire hose reels and fire extinguishers serve different purposes in fire safety:
Feature | Fire Hose Reel | Fire Extinguisher |
Best For | Larger Class A fires, deep-seated fires | Small, contained fires of various classes |
Water Supply | Continuous water supply from building mains | Limited agent supply (single use) |
Range | Water jet up to 10 metres | Varies by type (2-8 metres) |
Fire Classes | Class A only | Varies by type (ABE, CO₂, Wet Chemical, etc.) |
Training Required | Basic training recommended | Basic training recommended |
How to Use a Fire Hose Reel: A Step-by-Step Guide
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.
WARNING: Fire hose reels are most suitable for Class A Fires (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, textiles, and most plastics). They are not effective on fires involving flammable liquids (Class B), electrical equipment (Class E), or cooking oils (Class F). Using water on these types of fires can be dangerous.
Follow these steps to safely operate a fire hose reel:
Open the Main Stop Valve: This releases the water supply to the hose.
Pull Out the Hose: Unreel enough hose so you can stand at a safe distance (approximately 4 metres) from the fire.
Turn the Nozzle to Open: Turn the nozzle to the open position to discharge water. If needed, keep turning the nozzle valve to adjust the water flow and pattern.
Direct the Hose at the Base of the Fire: Aim the water jet at the base of the flames to extinguish the fire effectively.
Turn Off the Nozzle: Once the fire is out, turn off the nozzle.
Reel the Hose Back: Mount the hose back onto the reel in even layers to ensure it is ready for its next use.
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 basic 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 Class A 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.
Fire Hose Reel Requirements and Installation (AS1221 & AS2441)
Installing a fire hose reel correctly is critical for compliance and safety. Australian regulations, specifically AS1221 (for the reel itself) and AS2441 (for installation), set out strict guidelines. Businesses are responsible for maintaining and testing their fire hose reels to ensure compliance with these regulations.
System Coverage (AS2441)
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.
Maximum Hose Length: 36 metres of hose can be used to calculate coverage.
Spray Range: The nozzle has a spray range of 4 metres.
Strategic Positioning: Reels must be positioned so occupants can quickly and easily access a fire from any part of the building.
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.
Location and Accessibility
Distance to Exit: Fire hose reels must be located within 4 metres of an exit. If this is not feasible, additional reels can be situated along the path of travel to an exit.
Fire/Smoke Doors: Reels must not be located in areas where the hose would need to be pulled through fire or smoke doors during use.
Obstructions: The hose and hydrant valve must be accessible and free from obstruction.
Multi-Storey Buildings: In most cases, separate reels must be provided for every floor of the building. However, a multi-storey sole occupancy unit may only require a single reel, located at the entrance/exit level.
Signage and Mounting
Signage: The reels must be marked with white lettering on a red sign.
Signage Location: Operational signage must be easily visible within 2 metres of the reel.
Mounting Height: The reel must be installed at a height between 1.4 metres and 2.4 metres from the floor.
Robust Mounting: 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 Reels and Water Pressure
External Protection: External fire hose reels must be protected by a cabinet.
Water Pressure: If insufficient pressure is available, a water storage tank and/or a pump must be installed to boost the hydraulic system to meet the required flow rate.
Installation Checklist
Requirement | Detail |
Maximum Hose Length (coverage) | 36m |
Spray Range | 4m |
Distance to Exit | Within 4m |
Mounting Height | 1.4m to 2.4m |
Signage | White lettering on red sign, visible within 2m |
Minimum Flow Rate | 0.33 L/s |
Minimum Pressure | 220 kPa |
Compliance Standards | AS1221 (reel), AS2441 (installation) |
Types of Fire Hose Reels Available
Choosing the right fire hose reel depends on your specific application, space, and budget. We offer a range of high-quality reels designed to meet AS1221 standards.
Fire Hose Reel 36m (Standard)
The standard 36-metre fire hose reel is the most common type, suitable for most commercial and industrial applications.
Hose Length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: Mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Best For: General purpose use in offices, warehouses, and schools.
Fire Hose Reel 36m (Slimline Quick-fit Design)
A space-saving option that features a quick-fit connection for easy installation.
Hose Length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: Mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Design: Slimline Quick-fit Design
Best For: Areas with limited wall space.
Fire Hose Reel 36m Swing Arm
A swing arm design allows the reel to be pulled out smoothly in any direction.
Hose Length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: Mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Design: Swing Arm
Best For: Locations where the reel needs to be positioned at an angle or where space constraints require flexible mounting.
Stainless Steel 36m Fire Hose Reel
A durable stainless steel construction for superior corrosion resistance.
Hose Length: 36 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: Mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Material: Stainless Steel
Best For: Harsh environments, coastal areas, or industrial settings where corrosion is a concern.
Fire Hose Reel 50m
An extended 50-metre hose length for large coverage areas.
Hose Length: 50 metres
Hose Diameter: 19mm
Included: Mounting bracket, high-quality brass twist nozzle, inlet pipe, ball valve, hose guide and connection fitting
Best For: Large warehouses, factories, and expansive commercial premises where a 36m hose may not provide sufficient coverage.
Maintenance and Testing
To ensure your fire hose reel works when needed, regular maintenance is essential and a legal requirement for businesses.
Visual Inspection (Every 6 Months): Check for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or obstructions. Ensure the hose is neatly wound on the reel and that the nozzle is not leaking.
Annual Service and Flow Test: A licensed fire safety technician should perform a full service and flow test. This ensures the reel delivers the required flow rate and pressure (minimum 0.33 L/s and 220 kPa) as per AS1851.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Hose Reels
What is a fire hose reel used for?
A fire hose reel is used to provide a quick and accessible source of water to fight small, early-stage Class A fires. It is a first-attack firefighting tool found in many commercial and industrial buildings.
How big is a fire hose reel?
Standard fire hose reels have a hose length of 36 metres. This provides a water jet that can reach up to approximately 10 metres, allowing the user to fight a fire from a safe distance. 50-metre reels are also available for larger areas.
What is the difference between a fire hose reel and a fire hydrant?
A fire hose reel is a smaller, wall-mounted unit connected to the building's water supply for use by occupants. A fire hydrant is a larger, external water supply point used by professional firefighters with larger hoses.
What types of fires can a fire hose reel be used on?
Fire hose reels are designed for Class A fires (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, textiles, and most plastics). They are not suitable for flammable liquid (Class B), electrical (Class E), or cooking oil (Class F) fires.
What are the pressure requirements for a fire hose reel?
The water supply for a fire hose reel must provide a minimum flow rate of 0.33 L/s and a minimum pressure of 220 kPa at the most hydraulically disadvantaged outlet, as per AS2441.
How often should a fire hose reel be tested?
Fire hose reels should be visually inspected every 6 months and undergo a full flow test and service annually by a competent person to ensure compliance with AS1851.
Where should a fire hose reel be installed?
A fire hose reel must be located within 4 metres of an exit, mounted at a height between 1.4m and 2.4m, and have clear signage visible within 2 metres. It must also be free from obstructions.
Does a fire hose reel need a cabinet?
External fire hose reels must be protected by a cabinet to shield them from the elements and ensure they remain in working order.
Who can use a fire hose reel?
Fire hose reels can be used by anyone who has received basic training. In high-risk settings, specific training may be required.
What is AS1221?
AS1221 is the Australian Standard that specifies the requirements for the design, construction, and performance of fire hose reels.
What is AS2441?
AS2441 is the Australian Standard that specifies the requirements for the installation of fire hose reels in buildings.
What is the difference between a fire hose reel and a fire extinguisher?
A fire hose reel provides a continuous water supply for larger Class A fires, while a fire extinguisher is a portable unit with a limited agent supply for smaller, contained fires of various classes. Fire hose reels are typically mounted on walls, while fire extinguishers can be wall-mounted or carried.
Is a fire hose reel suitable for an office building?
Yes, fire hose reels are commonly installed in office buildings to provide fire protection for Class A fire risks such as paper, textiles, and furniture.
Can a fire hose reel be installed outdoors?
Yes, but external fire hose reels must be protected by a cabinet to shield them from the elements and ensure they remain in working order.
Who is responsible for maintaining a fire hose reel?
The building owner or occupier is responsible for ensuring the fire hose reel is maintained and tested in accordance with AS1851.
Conclusion: Ensuring Your Building is Protected
Fire hose reels are a vital component of any building's fire protection strategy. Understanding the requirements for their installation, maintenance, and use is essential for ensuring the safety of occupants and the protection of property. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and adhering to Australian Standards AS1221 and AS2441, you can ensure that your fire hose reels are ready to perform when needed.
Key takeaways:
Fire hose reels are designed for Class A fires only.
Installation must comply with AS1221 and AS2441.
Regular maintenance and testing are legal requirements.
Choosing the right type of reel depends on your specific needs and environment.
Investing in the correct fire hose reel and ensuring it is properly installed and maintained is a proactive step towards ensuring safety and preparedness in the face of fire emergencies. It provides peace of mind, knowing you have a powerful and reliable tool ready to protect what matters most.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. It is not customised for any individual's specific situation. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalised guidance.
About Fire Products Direct
With years of experience in the Australian fire safety industry, Fire Products Direct is committed to providing expert guidance and high-quality fire protection solutions. We help businesses and homeowners navigate the complexities of fire safety to ensure they have the right protection for their specific needs.
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