Fire Hydrants require two services per annum, a Major and a Minor.
The Minor Service: ensure the cover is free of any damage or debris and is easily removable in an emergency situation. An inspection of the pit to ensure the surrounding is sound, to also make sure the pit is clean and dry.
The Major Service: ensure that the hydrant is flowing at 12 bar per second with no obstruction to water flow.
British Standard BS9990:2015 states that where a fire hydrant exists on your premises, arrangements should be made by the owners or occupiers for annual maintenance.
A fire hydrant should be located at the entrance to a site and if necessary, at 300 metre intervals. The hydrant should provide a minimum of 8 l/sec (480 l/min). If no piped water supply is available or where there is insufficient pressure or flow in the water main an alternative source must be provided.
Our engineers will provide certification on completion of the Flow Meter tests conducted on site in relation to your fire hydrant. It is important that your contactor uses an accurate flow meter to conduct this test in order to measure the water pressure and flow as against just letting off the water at the standpoint.
The correct amount of water delivered from the hydrant will allow the Fire Service in an emergency to connect their fire hoses to the standpipe and give them the correct pressure and quantities of water in a fire scenario.
The Importance of Fire Hydrant Signage
Professional Service and Maintenance
The test continues includes inspections of the valves, outlet cap, water pressure and a hydrant flow test. A Fire hydrant flow test determines the flow rate and pressure in any location. If required, our engineer can carry out any repairs and maintenance on fire hydrants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, fire hydrants do need to be tested. Regular testing is essential to ensure they function correctly and provide a continuous water supply from the mains during a fire. Testing identifies defects that could affect their performance, such as leaks or malfunctioning valves.
Fire hydrants should be inspected and serviced annually to ensure they have the right water pressure and flow rate. It is also recommended to carry out a visual inspection every six months to identify any issues that need attention.
Fire hydrant inspections are crucial for ensuring that hydrants are in proper working order and can provide an adequate water supply during a fire. Regular inspections help to identify and rectify any issues that could hinder their performance, thereby ensuring the safety of the public and property.
Yes, it is important to have a Fire Hydrant Service Certificate. The certificate demonstrates that the hydrant has been tested and maintained correctly. In the event of an incident, fire investigators may ask to see this certificate to verify compliance with fire safety standards.
In the UK, fire hydrant testing and maintenance must comply with British Standard BS9990:2015. Hydrants should be tested annually to check for adequate water pressure and flow rate, and any defects or issues should be addressed promptly. This testing is a legal requirement for commercial and private fire hydrants, and failure to comply can result in legal repercussions.