National Fire Hydrant Testing

Fire hydrant pressure and flow testing provides important field information to water service planners and Fire Brigades.

Fire hydrant flow testing provides important field information to water service planners and Fire Brigades. This enables them to accurately estimate the capabilities of water mains.

The prime concern of water companies appears to be the impact of hydrant inspection, testing and flow testing activities by Fire Brigades on the quality of water in their distribution systems.

The prime concern of Fire Brigades appears to be the validity of hydrant testing and inspection and the cost of repairs.

Fire hydrant testing also uncovers a number of mechanical problems such as leaks and valves that don’t operate properly. It is important they are discovered and repaired before the hydrant is needed in an emergency.

Sub-contract your Fire Hydrant testing to SES Utilities and see a number of benefits: -

•Significant reduction in hydrant repairs and maintenance budgets

•Reduced administrative costs

•Reduced risk of causing discolouration to drinking water

•Resources redirected to more proactive tasks (e. g. community fire safety)

•Fire Hydrants are monitored and maintained to meet the requirements of Section 57 of the Water Industry Act 1991


Our Fire Hydrant Testing Examinations consist of: -


Above ground

Our above ground examination will involve a visual inspection of the hydrant frame, cover, surface surrounding the hydrant and the hydrant indicator plate. The period between inspections will be risk assessed and taken into account such likely factors of area location and risk, hydrant position, age, material, previous history, etc.

Below ground

Our below ground examination will involve the visual inspection of the hydrant pit and the hydrant itself. Defects, which would affect the ability to deliver water for fire-fighting purposes or create a hazard then these would be reported immediately. Also the period between inspections will be risk assessed and taken into account such likely factors of area location and risk, hydrant position, age, material, previous history, etc.

Wet Pressure Test

The wet pressure test is conducted by fitting a standpipe to the outlet and then partially opening the valve to allow a small amount of water to flow. A blank cap is fitted in the standpipe head and the hydrant fully opened. Whilst under pressure, all joints are to be visually inspected for signs of leakage and only those leakage’s that would impair the hydrant for fire-fighting purposes, or cause a hazard would be reported immediately.

Static Pressure Test

The static pressure test is conducted by attaching the static pressure assembly to the standpipe with the vent cock open. The hydrant is then opened and the vent cock is closed when the standpipe is free of air. A pressure reading is then taken. The hydrant valve is then closed and the vent cock opened to release the pressure before removing the standpipe assembly.

Flow Test

Before attaching the flow tube to the hydrant standpipe the main will be flushed for a short period of time approximately 1 minute to clear any debris which may cause damage to the flow sensor. After flushing the flow tube is attached to the standpipe and the hydrant valve is fully opened. The digital display is left to settle before any readings are taken.