GL-09
Community Safety Directorate
GUIDELINE: Deletion of Hose From Existing Hydrants
Guideline No: GL- 09
Prepared By: MFESB Community Safety Advisory Group
Authorised By: Director Fire Safety
First Issued: 24 September 2002
Version No: 3 (9 June 2009)
Reviewed: September 2011
Download 
Deletion of Hose From Existing Hydrants - GL 09 (59kb)
1. Purpose
To clarify the circumstances in which the MFB will support the removal of canvas hose from existing hydrant installations. It is to be noted that a Building Surveyor is the person having the authority to approve the deletion of hose from existing hydrants. The process involves the issuing of a building permit by the (relevant) building surveyor to carry out demolition work.
2. Scope
This guideline is intended to cover only existing hydrant installations designed and installed under previous regulations, which required the hydrants to be equipped with canvas hose. Current Building Regulations and relevant Australian Standards do not contain any reference to the equipping of hydrants. A Practice Note (No. 31) - “Deletion Of Hose From Existing Fire Hydrants” issued by the Building Commission should be referenced in conjunction with this Guideline.
3. Body
In line with the Australian Standard (AS 2419.1), the MFB regards hydrants as a facility primarily for their use. Accordingly, when hydrants are used, the MFB will provide their own equipment.
However, there may be some instances where equipped hydrants may be required, eg as a decision associated with a Regulation 309 Report and Consent (under the Building Regulations 2006) or a dangerous goods report (compiled under relevant Dangerous Goods legislation).
When advice is sought from the Chief Officer, as provided for in the Building Commission Practice Note 31, the Chief Officer will generally support the removal of canvas hoses subject to the following:
- There has been no other requirement imposed relative to a Regulation 309 Report and Consent decision,
- Fire hose reel coverage is provided for generally in accordance with AS 2441-2005 (maintained in accordance with AS 1851.2–2005), and/or
- Portable extinguishers are provided in accordance with AS 2444–1995 (maintained in accordance with AS 1851.1–2005.)
- All booster connection inlets and outlets, all external building hydrants (not including street hydrants allocated to the building) and all internal hydrants to have storz adaptors connected and fitted so as not to be easily removed. (ie: grub screw)
Each building and its occupancy classification will be looked at on a case by case basis.
4. Dangerous Goods
Many chemical and industrial premises store and handle dangerous goods. Relevant regulations require that such premises provide and maintain fire protection systems appropriate for the site hazards and risks. This may require the provision of equipped hydrants.
The complexity and range of hazards found at such premises requires that the fire service review changes to a fire protection system on a case by case basis. Officers conducting these reviews must be qualified in this area. The MFB Dangerous Goods Department can be contacted on 9420 3866.
5. Signage
If canvas hoses are removed, all signage should be updated to reflect the absence of the hose at the hydrant. E.g. Signs indicating ‘Fire Hydrant and Hose’ on the cabinet door, should have the words ‘and Hose’ removed.
6. References
Building Commission Practice Note No. 31 – ‘Deletion of Hose from Existing Hydrants’, January 1998, Building l Commission, Vic.
http://www.buildingcommission.com.au/resources/documents/Practice_Notes_2006-31.pdf
Note: This is a controlled document and may only be modified by authorised personnel after review by the MFESB Community Safety Advisory Group
THIS DOCUMENT IS UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED