Fire hydrants have two essential purposes for firefighting:
- To provide a constant supply of water to replenish fire tender water tanks
- To act as a direct feed via a standpipe to lay flat hoses
BS9990 requires fire hydrants to undergo annual testing and inspection, as well as an inspection by a competent person every 6 months.
The maintenance and testing of private fire hydrants is the responsibility of the owners/occupiers on whose land they are installed – they will not be maintained by either the water company or the fire service. These hydrants are generally located on large sites such as hospitals, military establishments, and industrial estates, but may also be installed to provide cover for specific at-risk properties.
The person responsible for the fire hydrant should make periodic inspections of all hydrants on a weekly or monthly basis. Of special concern are fire hydrants which are located on private water mains and are not the responsibility of the local water company or the fire and rescue service.
Firecom offers a full and unique service from our expert engineers who are qualified and capable of testing and certifying fire hydrants. Each fire hydrant has its water flow and pressure electronically analysed and measured using a calibrated meter. This ensures that the emergency services have the necessary water supply in the event of a fire emergency. Should any hydrant fail its annual test then a full comprehensive report is provided by our engineers. This allows remedial work to begin swiftly, restoring the hydrant to full and operational order and making your business premises safer in the process.
During the inspection and test there are certain conditions that must be checked and noted for remedial action if necessary. They are as follows:
- Pits
- Frames
- Covers
- Surface paving around the edges of the frame
- Depth of outlet below the frame (no greater than 300mm)
- Method of indication by means of hydrant indicator plate
Our team of expert engineers ensure that any production of water from the fire hydrant must not be carried out in unfavourable conditions, for example freezing conditions where water may present a slipping hazard, or droughts. They will also ensure the correct signage is displayed on the road to face oncoming traffic and protect all personnel in the area.
All Firecom engineers wear a name branded fluorescent jacket or vest when inspecting or testing hydrants.
After each inspection or test, the fire hydrant pit will be left empty and clean (photographic record provided) and the fire hydrant cover plate is refitted securely over the pit.
