What is the minimum required flow rate for a first-aid hose-reel?

The nozzle must discharge not less than 22.5 liters per minute at a pressure of 0.7 MPa (7 kgf/cm²).

What is the minimum throw range of the water jet?

The unbroken jet of water must have a minimum throw range of 6 meters.

What size of hose is standard for these reels?

The standard specifies a nominal internal diameter of 19 mm, usually supplied in continuous lengths of 30 meters or 36 meters.

What pressure must the hose reel assembly withstand during testing?

The entire assembly must withstand a hydrostatic pressure of 2.1 MPa (21 kgf/cm²) for 5 minutes without leakage.

IS 884

: 1985

Specification for First-Aid Hose-Reel For Fire Fighting

CurrentFrequently UsedSpecificationBIMFire Safety · Fire Fighting

Download PDF BIS Portal Google

This standard lays down the specification for materials, construction, dimensions, and testing of first-aid hose-reels used for firefighting installations in buildings. Engineers and fire safety professionals use this code to ensure wall-mounted hose reels provide immediate, reliable water access with adequate flow and throw range during the early stages of a fire.

Specification for First-Aid Hose-Reel For Fire Fighting

Quick Reference Values

standard hose internal diameter19 mm

standard hose length30 m or 36 m

minimum discharge flow rate22.5 liters/min (at 0.7 MPa pressure)

minimum jet throw range6 meters

hydrostatic test pressure2.1 MPa (21 kgf/cm²)

maximum working pressure1.5 MPa (15 kgf/cm²)

minimum swing angle180 degrees

Practical Notes

While IS 884 covers the manufacturing spec of the hose reel, its installation requirements (like mounting height, typically 0.8m to 1.5m) are governed by IS 3844.

Thermoplastic hoses (IS 12585) are often specified over traditional rubber hoses (IS 444) due to superior aging resistance and flexibility.

Always verify that the swinging wall-mounting bracket allows for at least a 180-degree swing so the hose can unspool freely in any direction without kinking.