Why knowing when to use a fire hose reel is important
The dangers of fire and how quickly it can spread can never be overestimated. This is why it is increasingly important to ensure that you have the right fire equipment AND that you know how and when to use it.
It’s vital that you know how to use a fire hose reel and just as important is to know WHEN to use it. The other factor that too many people overlook is to be sure the fire hose reel is in full working order. You will have no time to second guess your fire equipment in a fire emergency.
Having fire hose testing done by trusted professionals gives you the peace of mind that you are fire ready.
Fire safety measures and compliance are the responsibility of every New Zealand business owner or manager. Ensuring your workplace is fire safe at all times is a legal requirement, with heavy penalties applying if your site does not comply.
The use of a fire hose reel
There is more to having and using a fire hose reel than many people realise. It is not like in the movies where someone sees a fire, runs over to the fire hose reel and immediately uses it to put out the fire.
There are a number of questions that you need to be able to answer before using a fire hose reel. These include:
- What type of fires can I use a fire hose on?
- How severe can the fire be?
- What are the risks of using it on the wrong type of fire?
- Can anyone use a fire hose reel?
If you’re not sure about the answers to these questions or when to use a fire hose reel, then you’re not alone.
A fire hose should only be used as an immediate response to a fire. The reel should be accessible and ready to operate in containing a small fire as quickly as possible.
A fire hose should only be used on fires fuelled by paper, textiles, wood, plastics, rubber, and cloth – these all fall within the Class A type of fire. A fire hose reel is there to contain a small fire quickly and minimise damage.
If the fire is not easily contained or grows, it is time to immediately evacuate the area.
Additionally, only those who are familiar with the hose reel should attempt to extinguish a flame.
If a fire hose is used on a different type of fire from those outlined in the classification A variety of fire, then you are risking the chance of making things worse.
When not to use a fire hose
A fire hose should never be used on a fire where burning liquids are involved or where there is live electrical equipment or circuitry.
Only a person who is familiar with the use of a fire hose reel should operate it and ALWAYS at a safe distance away from the flames with a clear path to the nearest exit.
Every member of staff can have the skill of knowing how to use a fire hose reel effectively and appropriately. It’s the best way to protect your staff and minimise costly damage to your property.
Minimising the dangers of a fire emergency is easier when regular fire equipment testing and education on how to use that equipment are in place.
You need to be sure that your fire equipment is in full working order and that you have people on hand who are trained in how to use it.
Being fire safe is easier when you have experts on your side
Fire hose reel testing is a key to staying fire safe.
Any fire hose reel should be properly tested and maintained by a qualified technician in accordance with the appropriate New Zealand Standards.
Jim’s Test & Tag have the ability to ensure you comply with the Standards and can perform fire safety inspections at the necessary intervals. Only a professional team have the ability to assess the functionality of your device and can not fire safety issues such as accessibility.
Maintaining fire equipment is a serious matter and includes inspection of all fire hose reels, fire extinguishers, and fire blankets.
Fire hose testing
Knowing how and when to use a fire hose reel can be a life-saving measure. Fire hoses vary in length between 18 and 36 metres and in diameters of 13-25mm with a weight of 23kgs for a standard fixed fire hose reel.
It is crucial that your hose reel meets the strict standards (Approved to the AS/NZS 1221) and that is properly serviced on a regular basis.
Having the right fire safety measures in place should always include having professional fire hose testing done.
It makes sense to get the backing of the fully trained Fire Safety experts who are the trusted professionals right throughout New Zealand.
Jim’s Test & Tag is your trusted professionals
Every member of Jim’s Test & Tag team is fully trained to ensure they know exactly how to service your business and your particular needs. They are not just experts in fire protection testing, they’re also up-to-date with all the latest national testing standards.
For a full range of fire protection testing services available, all you need to do is make one booking with us and have your entire premises secured.
Staying fire safe all year round has never been easier.
Contact Jim’s Test & Tag today via our online form for a free quote on safety testing and inspection services.
