Fire Hose Testing: What You Should Know

BY SNAP-TITE HOSE STAFF

Hoselines are critical components of firefighting systems, making their reliability and effectiveness essential. Regular testing helps detect leaks, weak couplings, or compromised hose materials early—all of which can fail under the intense conditions of firefighting operations.

Key requirements for fire hose testing include adhering to regulatory standards, properly inspecting, following pressure-testing procedures, and taking safety into consideration. Whether you’re on the front lines or just looking to stay informed, here’s what you must know about routine fire hose testing.

REGULATORY STANDARDS

Reliable hoselines start with high- quality manufacturing and testing processes. Organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are often responsible for the development of fire hose design, construction, testing, and maintenance standards. NFPA 1962, Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, Service Testing, and Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances, provides the most widely recognized guidelines for fire hose testing.

Significant conditions in NFPA 1962 include the following:

• Testing frequency: Hoselines that are in service should be tested annually, and stored hose should be tested prior to being placed in service. Testing is also required after any repairs or exposures to extreme conditions, such as chemical spills, heat, or frozen temperatures.
• Fire hose types: Different hoselines have different standards. For instance, attack hose should be service tested to a minimum of 300 pounds per square inch (psi), while supply hose should be service tested to a minimum of 200 psi.

By ensuring your fire hose complies with NFPA guidelines, you can be confident that it will perform as designed in a firefighting situation.

1 Before pressure testing, check for cracks and cuts on the hose jacket or damaged, loose couplings. (Photos courtesy of Snap-tite Hose.)

INSPECTION AND PRESSURETESTING PROCEDURES

Before pressure testing, all fire hose should be inspected to identify visible damage. This includes checking for cracks and cuts on the hose jacket or damaged, loose couplings.

Proper pressure testing follows these steps:

1. Preparation: When preparing fire hose for testing, make sure it is laid out in a straight line, free of twists or kinks. To ensure accuracy, a certified pressure-testing device should be used, equipped with a reliable pressure gauge to monitor pressure levels, and a bleed-off valve to release any built-up pressure at the end of the test. This setup allows the test to be conducted in controlled conditions, which is the best way to retrieve reliable results.
2. Fill hose and bleed air: Fill each hose completely with water and carefully bleed out any trapped air. Air pockets can cause uneven pressure distribution, leading to inaccuracies in test results and safety risks such as sudden bursts. This step is critical to maintaining safety, the integrity of the hose, and reliable results.
3. Test pressures: To prevent sudden stress on the hose, gradually increase the pressure to the required test level, which is typically 10% greater than the normal highest operating pressure at which the hose is expected to be used. Once the desired pressure is reached, maintain it for a minimum of three minutes. Watch the hose for signs of failure.
4. Evaluate results: After completing the test, slowly release the pressure and conduct an inspection of the fire hose for any new issues such as deformations. Check the condition of the coupling bolts and note any sign of movement. Document the test results and any corrective actions taken. Accurate maintenance records are the best way to track fire hose conditions over time, which makes it easier to identify when repairs become necessary.

2 Test cages are designed to absorb the energy of a burst hose and prevent debris or water jets from reaching nearby personnel or equipment.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Fire hose testing involves high- pressure water systems, which can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. A safe testing environment is essential to protecting both personnel and equipment alike. When hose testing, do the following:

• Keep your distance: To avoid injury during testing, personnel should move a safe distance awayfrom the fire hose. A sudden burst under high pressure or a coupling failure can cause the hose to whip uncontrollably, creating a safety risk.
• Use test cages: Dedicated test cages (photo 2) can be used to safeguard against potential failures. Designed to absorb the energy of a burst hose, test cages prevent debris or water jets from reaching nearby personnel or equipment.
• Secure the equipment: Before testing begins, ensure all equipment such as nozzles, couplings, and the pressure-testing device are secure. Loose components can become dangerous under high pressure.
• Ensure proper training: Only trained personnel should conduct hose testing. Ensure your team is well equipped to handle the equipment, procedures, and emergency protocols in case of an accident.

Fire hose testing is important to the safety of those on the front lines, but safety during the test procedure is equally important. Minimize risks and ensure the reliability of crucial firefighting equipment—it’s a win, win!

Regular fire hose testing is essential to the reliability and performance of firefighting equipment. By following guidelines such as those outlined in NFPA 1962, fire departments and organizations can identify potential failures before they occur. Proper inspection, annual pressure testing, and detailed documentation are critical components of a comprehensive fire hose maintenance program.