The Ultimate Guide to Fire Hose Reels and How They Work

Fire hose reels play a vital role in workplace fire safety, especially in commercial and industrial environments. Designed to deliver a steady stream of water to Class A fires, they are often the first line of defence before emergency services arrive. Compliant with Australian Standards, hose reels can help minimise damage, protect property, and, most importantly, save lives. In this guide, we’ll explore how they work, where to install them, and why every business should have them as part of a complete fire safety plan.

Why Should You Have a Fire Hose Reel in an Establishment?

When a fire breaks out in a building, time is of the essence. Fire hose reels are often the first line of defence before emergency services arrive. Mounted on the wall or within a recessed cabinet, they provide fast access to water in critical moments.

Hose reels are particularly effective in areas where fires involving common combustibles occur. For larger fires or open spaces, having one within easy reach can help contain the spread and reduce damage. While fire extinguishers serve specific purposes, hose reels provide a more continuous stream for larger or sustained fires.

Additionally, using a hose reel cabinet can protect the equipment from damage, dust, or misuse, ensuring it remains functional when it’s needed most.

How Does a Fire Hose Reel Work?

A fire hose reel functions as a manual fire suppression tool, designed to deliver a steady, controllable stream of water to the base of a fire. Once the isolation valve is opened, the hose can be easily unwound from the reel and directed toward the flames. The nozzle allows the user to adjust the water flow for effective and targeted suppression.

Checkpoint Group’s Commander Fire Hose Reel range is built for reliability in high-risk commercial and industrial settings. These reels feature durable construction, brass nozzles, stainless steel inlet pipes, and Watermarked valves to ensure consistent performance in emergencies. Available in fixed or swinging models and various hose lengths (e.g. 36m and 50m), they’re fully compliant with Australian fire safety standards and suited to a range of site configurations.

Explore the full selection at Checkpoint’s Fire Hose Reels page to find a model that fits your site’s safety needs.

Can You Use a Fire Hose Reel for Cleaning?

No — fire hose reels are strictly for fire emergencies and must not be used for cleaning purposes. These systems are designed specifically for Class A fires (involving wood, paper, and textiles), and misusing them can compromise their performance or damage property. Using fire safety equipment for unauthorised purposes may also breach workplace compliance regulations.

If water access is required for site maintenance, separate plumbing should be installed for general-purpose cleaning tasks.

How to Use a Fire Hose Reel in an Emergency

In an emergency, knowing how to properly use a fire hose reel is critical. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Raise the alarm to alert others in the building.
   
2. Check the type of fire – hose reels should only be used on Class A fires (e.g. paper, wood, textiles). Never use on electrical or flammable liquid fires.
   
3. Turn on the isolation valve located near the reel.
   
4. Pull the hose towards the fire, unwinding it completely.
   
5. Open the nozzle to begin water flow and aim at the base of the flames.
   
6. Use a sweeping motion to control and extinguish the fire.
   

After use, shut off the nozzle and valve, and rewind the hose carefully.

This process is designed for ease of use by trained staff and should form part of any fire safety induction or emergency procedure.

Fire Hose Reel Standards and AS 2441 Installation Requirements

In Australia, the installation and maintenance of fire hose reels are governed by AS 2441: Installation of Fire Hose Reels. This standard outlines the correct procedures for positioning, mounting, and supplying water to fire hose reels in commercial and industrial settings.

Key requirements include:

• Reels must be accessible and clearly visible, with a hose length capable of reaching all parts of the floor area.
  
• The water supply must provide a minimum of 0.2 MPa at the nozzle.
  
• Units should be securely mounted, ideally near exits or evacuation points.
  
• Fire hose reels must undergo regular inspection and maintenance to remain compliant.
  

Following AS 2441 ensures your site meets legal fire safety obligations and helps protect lives and property in the event of an emergency.

Best Fire Hose Reel Products in the Market

If you're looking for a fire hose reel that is safe and reliable, one that won’t fail when it counts, here are some widely used models:

Commander Fire Hose Reel (36m x 19mm Fixed)

Constructed with a stainless steel inlet pipe and a powder-coated red finish, this reel is known for its durability. It includes a high-quality brass nozzle and components that minimise leakage and deliver consistent performance.

Commander Fire Hose Reel Cabinet

Made of robust steel, this cabinet protects your hose reel while allowing quick access. Designed with a user-friendly push-button mechanism and wall mounting holes for secure installation.

Recessed Fire Hose Reel Cabinet

With a heavy-gauge steel build and discreet flush-mount profile, this unit is ideal for fit-outs that require fire safety integration without disrupting interior design.

Fire hose reels remain a key component of fire response planning in commercial and industrial settings. Ensuring you have the right type of reel, understanding how it works, and training your staff in proper usage can significantly improve fire preparedness and reduce risk.

Need help choosing the right fire hose reel or ensuring your site meets safety standards? Contact Checkpoint today for a free consultation and tailored fire protection solutions.