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AM1  
#1 Posted : 12 May 2010 09:50:31(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
AM1

Can we use fire hose reels for non emergency situations? such as using the water for cleaning purposes? I understand the duty to maintain in working order, but is anyone aware of any rulings stating that they must only be used in an emergency? Must they be re-inspected and tagged after every use? thanks for your thoughts
bob youel  
#2 Posted : 12 May 2010 10:07:32(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bob youel

YES
AM1  
#3 Posted : 12 May 2010 10:08:55(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
AM1

Yes to using them or yes to having them inspected and tagged after every use?
Paul Duell  
#4 Posted : 12 May 2010 11:29:00(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Paul Duell

Use for cleaning etc is quite acceptable - it could even be a good thing as faults with the hose will be spotted more quickly rather than waiting for the next inspection (or a fire, of course!) Just be aware of the potential for damage, e.g. if you're using it to hose down the yard, make sure it's not going to get damaged by vehicles driving over it.
bob youel  
#5 Posted : 12 May 2010 11:32:19(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bob youel

YES: was only part of my answer -I must have hit the wrong button etc? Yes you can use such kit for many things and 'no' they do not need separate / re tagging etc on every occasion & note Pauls reply
Ron Hunter  
#6 Posted : 12 May 2010 12:01:40(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

Yes, but do beware of any potential fire compartment breaches caused by the trailing hose at fire-check doors etc. - in the unlikely event the fire alarm goes off! (Life is full of little ironies). Also beware tripping hazards.
David Bannister  
#7 Posted : 12 May 2010 13:19:42(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
David Bannister

It's possible (but unlikely) that the fire hoses are from an unmetered supply, in which case the answer is you shouldn't. Otherweise, go ahead.
Firesafetybod  
#8 Posted : 12 May 2010 13:41:17(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Firesafetybod

As previous posts have noted……. If it is used properly and kept in a good working condition – why not! All your doing is ensuring it is working anyway.
firesafety101  
#9 Posted : 12 May 2010 16:43:53(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
firesafety101

I partly agree with other answers however what if? If you are using the fire hose in the yard, at the extent of its length, and there is a fire - where is the firefighting equipment? Imagine having to say "Oh I was just washing the car Mr. fire insurance man"! There would be a delay in getting the hose back inside and to the point where it is needed for firefighting. Also the more it is used the more likely for damage, once damaged it is then not available as a fire hose until it is repaired. The point about non metered supply is relevant.
martinw  
#10 Posted : 13 May 2010 09:02:14(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
martinw

Are you concerned about the potential for exposure to legionella when using the hose reel? Fine mist etc?
PhilBeale  
#11 Posted : 18 May 2010 15:35:43(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PhilBeale

Fire hoses are being coming less common for all the reasons mentioned above but in a fire situation. Wedging open fire doors potential trip hazard for those evacuating and of course unlimited supply of water so how long does someone stay fighting a fire if the water is unlimited. Phi;
JESU  
#12 Posted : 19 May 2010 10:04:36(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
JESU

Hi Gents, In UAE, Fire hose reels are connected with Fire Dept. any pressure drop in the line will alarm the Fire Dept. Even while doing maintenance, it has to be informed the fire dept. for ignoring the alarm. So No question of using for any other purpose. Jesu
PhilBeale  
#13 Posted : 19 May 2010 12:48:51(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PhilBeale

Jesu We don't have the same system here in the uk but some sites might have there own internal alarm systems depending where the supply comes from storage tank or mains. Phil
PJG  
#14 Posted : 20 May 2010 00:11:01(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
PJG

martinw wrote:
Are you concerned about the potential for exposure to legionella when using the hose reel? Fine mist etc?
All in all, this would be your main concern as Fire Hose locations are a dead end to the supply, and thus in a position for Legionella to exist. Accordingly, regular use (flushing out) of the fire hose would not only be deemed as OK, I would recommend this as a regular requirement...
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