Fire hose reels play a crucial role in commercial buildings as they provide a controlled supply of water to extinguish fires. And must be installed in accordance to “MS 1489-1: 2023 sets requirements for the design, installation, and maintenance of fire hose reels” and ‘’MS 1488-1: 2021 specifies requirements for semi-rigid hoses, including maximum working pressures and temperature limitations’’.Regular maintenance of fire hose reels is crucial to ensure their optimal performance during emergencies. Pre-Maintenance Checklist Before starting the maintenance process, take the following safety precautions:
Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles.
Isolate the water supply to the fire hose reel system.
Visual Inspection Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the hose reel, cabinet, nozzle, and hose, checking for any signs of wear and tear, damage, or leaks. Pay close attention to:
Cracks or damage in the hose reel cabinet or cover
Corrosion or damage to the hose reel drum and mounting brackets
Damaged or leaking hose connections
Deterioration or damage to the hose and shut-off nozzle
Tools and Equipment The following tools and equipment are required for the maintenance process:
Protective gloves and safety goggles
Flow meter or container for measuring flow rate
Pressure gauge
Lubricant (e.g., silicone spray or grease)
Mild detergent and soft cloth or sponge
Maintenance logbook or digital record-keeping system
Visually inspect the hose reel, cabinet, nozzle, and hose for any signs of wear and tear, damage, or leaks.
Check the hose reel drum for smooth rotation and adequate tension.
Ensure that the fire hose reel is easily accessible and not obstructed by any objects.
Verify that the signage is clear and visible from a distance of at least 20 meters
Six-Monthly Inspection Procedures
Perform the monthly inspection procedures.
Conduct an operational check by opening the valve, allowing water to flow through the hose, and verifying the proper operation of the shut-off nozzle.
Check that the water pressure is within the recommended range according to MS 1448-1: 2021
Annual Inspection Procedures
Perform the monthly and six-monthly inspection procedures.
Lubricate the hose reel bearings, swivels, and shut-off nozzle moving parts.
Clean the hose reel, cabinet, and nozzle using a mild detergent and soft cloth or sponge.
Measure the flow rate of the water from the nozzle using a flow meter or by collecting water in a container and timing the process.
Check the pressure at the hose reel inlet using a pressure gauge.
Verify that the water pressure is within the recommended range according to MS 1448-1: 2021.
Record-Keeping Requirements Maintain a maintenance logbook or digital record-keeping system to track the following information: Date of maintenance
Type of maintenance performed (e.g., monthly, six-monthly, or annual inspection)
Any issues found and actions taken.
Troubleshooting Common Issues.
Low water pressure or flow rate: Check for any blockages or leaks in the hose, and ensure that the water supply valve is fully open. If the issue persists, consult a professional for further inspection and repairs.
Hose reel drum not rotating smoothly: Lubricate the bearings and swivels, and check for any damage or debris obstructing the rotation. If necessary, replace damaged components.
Shut-off nozzle not functioning properly: Inspect the nozzle for damage or debris, and lubricate the moving parts. Replace the nozzle if it is damaged or worn.
Additional Safety Precautions and Considerations
Isolate the water supply to the fire hose reel system before performing any maintenance tasks.
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements and guidelines outlined in MS 1448-1: 2021 to ensure full compliance.
Schedule regular maintenance checks and inspections to prevent issues from developing and to ensure the fire hose reel system remains in optimal condition.
Conclusion Following MS 1448-1: 2021 and MS 1489-1:2023 guidelines for fire hose reel maintenance is vital for ensuring the safety and protection of your building and its occupants. Regular maintenance checks, including visual inspections, operational checks, lubrication, cleaning, and testing, will help keep your fire hose reel system in optimal condition, ready for use in emergencies.
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