Hoses

Question 1

Define the sizes of hoses FRV employ in general use

Answer 1

• 38mm (Storz and External Lug Coupling)
• 50mm Storz
• 65mm Storz
• 90mm Storz

Storz couplings are hermaphrodite (both male and female so can be joined at either end)

Question 2

Define hose Terminology

Answer 2

Hose on the bite - Made up/Rolled up hose - hose is laid in half and then rolled up

Coil - Rolled hose in single layer

Flake - Hose stored in a folded fashion - stored in appliance on hose tray

Bowl out - To roll out a length of hose

Run a line - To establish a charged line of hose

Firefighting line - One (1) hose line consisting of two (2) lengths of 30m hose, equating to 60mm length. Connected to a water supply with a branch attached

Charged line - Hose line containing water pressure

Under run - to drain out water from a length of hose

Lay hose - To lay hose directly from rear of appliance

Make up - Return hose to storage condition

Question 3

Describe the two (2) main types of hoses used by FRV for delivery and suction:

Answer 3

1. Delivery hose - used to convey water from the pumps to the fire. Made to withstand internal pressure. Referred to as ‘Firefighting line’ or ‘supply line’
2. Feed Hose/Feed length - a delivery hose that conveys water from hydrants to pumps is referred to as a feed hose.

Question 4

Describe the function of a Suction hose

Answer 4

A special type of hose used for conveying water from a natural water source to the pump. Constructed to withstand both internal and external pressure.

Question 5

Explain the procedure (DIV A) to identify and label holes/damage to the hose?

Answer 5

• Clean the hose
• Circle the hole and/ or damaged area with a Chinagraph pencil.
• Place grey duct tape either side of the hole
• Attach a shipping tag to the damaged hose at the coupling, stating location of hole / damage from the coupling (ie. for repair hole 2m from coupling)

Question 6

When should hose inspections take place (DIV A)

Answer 6

When reeling, rolling or flaking hose back onto the appliance, clean and inspect for holes/damage/wear.

Question 7

What are important actions you should NOT take when working with hoses on the fireground?

Answer 7

• Never charge a hose on the tray or on the bight
• Don’t drive a vehicle over the hose line where possible
• Don’t drag over broken glass or sharp objects
• Drag or lay hose through contaminants
• Create water hammer or a shockwave in the hose in any way
• Drop or drive over couplings
• Charge a line before the order “water on”

Question 8

What are important actions you should take when working with hoses on the fireground?

Answer 8

• Check couplings for distortion and rubber washers
• Take all kinks out of the hose when charged
• Visually check the hose for damage after a job
• Signify a damaged length of hose with an overhand knot
• Use a Burst Hose Bandage on damaged sections
• Use hose ramps wherever possible

Question 9

List important OHS issues to be considered when working with a hose on the fireground?

Answer 9

• Lifting and moving heavy objects
• Back injuries
• Muscular and joint pain injuries
• Environmental risk factors, such as wet slippery uneven and unstable surfaces, one person left holding or dragging the hose.