COMPARATIVE STUDY OF INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE FIGHTING HOSES FOR FIXED SYSTEMS: CURRENT STATUS AND PROSPECTS OF UNIFICATION

Abstract

The purpose of this scientific investigation is to conduct a comparative study of international technical requirements for fire fighting hoses for fixed systems (hereinafter referred to as FFHFS), identify the main differences and develop proposals for possible directions for unifying technical requirements in the context of increasing the effectiveness of fire safety and ensuring compliance of the national fire protection system with international standards.

The article presents a comparative study of international technical requirements for FHS. This study includes an analysis of existing international standards (such as NFPA, EN, JIS, GB, IS, AS/NZS) and their comparison. Key differences in technical parameters (length, diameter, hose materials), working and test pressures, water flow rates, as well as approaches to the design, operation and intended use of FFHFS in different countries are identified. The study found out significant technical differences in the requirements for FFHFS between different countries of the world. Also, differences in hose diameters and lengths, types of connections (Storz, NST, JIS, GB, BS 336), materials, as well as in maintenance and certification practices were noted. It was shown that the Ukrainian regulatory framework is gradually adapting to European standards, but a comprehensive comparative analysis with other global approaches is insufficient. The data obtained are useful because they form the basis for developing proposals on possible directions of unification of technical requirements for FFHFS. They allow to identify specific areas where harmonization of Ukrainian standards with international ones is necessary, which will contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the domestic fire equipment market, simplifying international cooperation, importing modern technologies and exporting Ukrainian products. This will also help to develop more effective and safer fire extinguishing systems adapted to modern challenges and international practices.