For buildings equipped with standpipe systems, the fire hose is a critical piece of fire fighting equipment. It’s designed to provide a ready source of water for trained occupants or for first responders to use to fight a fire in its early stages. However, a fire hose is only effective if it is in perfect working condition. A hose that has been neglected, has become damaged, or fails under pressure is a useless—and dangerous—piece of equipment. This is why regular, professional inspection and testing of all fire hoses, as mandated by fire codes, is an essential part of maintaining a safe and compliant building.
What Do Fire Codes Require?
The standards for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire hoses are detailed in the NFPA 1962: Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, Service Testing, and Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances. Local fire marshals in the Inland Empire enforce these standards. The key requirements include:
- Annual Visual Inspection: At least once a year, all fire hoses must be visually inspected. This involves removing the hose completely from its cabinet or rack and checking its entire length for any signs of damage. This includes looking for cracks, abrasions, mildew, rot, or exposure to chemicals. The couplings and nozzle are also inspected for damage and to ensure they are functioning correctly. After inspection, the hose must be carefully re-racked or re-rolled using a different fold pattern to prevent it from developing permanent creases.
- Periodic Hydrostatic Testing: A visual inspection can’t determine the internal integrity of a hose. This is why hydrostatic testing is required. This test involves pressurizing the hose with water to a specified test pressure for a set amount of time to ensure it can withstand the high pressures it will be subjected to during a fire.
- For most standard lined fire hoses, this test is required every 5 years.
- For hoses that are older or in harsher environments, the frequency may be more often.
Why Do Fire Hoses Fail?
A fire hose can fail for many reasons, which is why inspections are so important.
- Age and Deterioration: The materials of the hose can become brittle and crack over time, especially in the dry climate of Southern California.
- Damage: The hose jacket can be damaged by abrasion, cuts, or exposure to corrosive chemicals or sunlight.
- Improper Storage: A hose that is stored improperly with sharp folds can develop weak spots along the creases. A wet hose that is put away without being properly dried can develop mold and mildew, which will rot the hose jacket.
- Vandalism or Misuse: Hoses in public-access cabinets can be subject to vandalism or misuse.
As the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and other fire safety organizations stress, the reliability of firefighting equipment is paramount. A failed hose can have tragic consequences for firefighters who are depending on it to work.
The Professional Service Process
A professional fire protection company has the certified technicians and the specialized equipment to perform these services correctly and in compliance with all codes. They will conduct the visual inspections, perform the hydrostatic testing safely, and meticulously document all services performed on a tag that is attached to the hose, which is what your fire marshal will look for during an inspection.
Your Inland Empire Fire Hose Service Experts
Don’t let a neglected fire hose become a liability. Ensuring your building’s standpipe system is ready to perform in an emergency is a critical responsibility. For building owners and facility managers throughout the Inland Empire, the team at Cal-Counties Fire Protection provides comprehensive fire hose service, including annual inspections and hydrostatic testing. Contact us today to schedule your service and ensure compliance.