The ABCB conducted a review as to whether the fire safety objectives of the National Construction Code for Class 5 (office) buildings could be achieved by removing the requirement to install fire hose reels, given the low level of risk in these types of buildings.

As a result of this review, in February 2017 the Board agreed to replace the requirement for fire hose reels with the installation of  fire extinguishers in Class 5 buildings to address Class A fire risks. This is in recognition of the lower risk and benefits to life safety.

Historically, fire hose reels were seen to be a key item required for use by occupants to suppress early stages of fire. A change in health and safety practices has meant that early evacuation has taken priority over encouraging occupants to supress the fire, therefore questioning the need for fire hose reels in new office buildings.

Requirements for Class 5 (office buildings)

In buildings greater than 25 metres in effective height:

  • Two portable fire extinguishers will be required to be installed per storey, in lieu of two fire hose reels per storey.

In buildings less than 25 metres in effective height:

  • Four portable fire extinguishers will be required to be installed per storey, in lieu of one fire hose reels per storey

 

 Resource: ABCB