Testing of Hose Reels and Monitors

Hard rubber fire hoses are usually provided throughout the process area of a hydrocarbon facility. The coil of a hose on a hose reel presents a considerable friction loss factor to the flow of water through it. In some instances a fire water hose reel may not be completely unrolled from a reel before its use. Therefore it is prudent to conduct a hose reel flow test with a partial removal of the hose and full unreeling from it. The spray reaches of each scenario can then be fully evaluated and observed. 

The ease of unrolling a hose reel to the protected hazard should be tested. 

The placement of monitors should be cognizant of obstructions. The arc and depth of the spray coverage should be confirmed. 

Where monitors are placed close to hazards, such as at helicopter landing sites, supplement monitor heat should be considered for operator protection. The heat shield should not obstruct the visor of the operator and clear heat resistant plexi-glasses have been used at some installations. 

Dual coverage for high leak potential areas (e g., pumps, compressors, etc.) should be verified during actual flow testing. 

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