Report # Catastrophic Test Hydrant Failure Report Number: Report Date: 06/12/ :48 Synopsis Hydrant breaks from mount, nearly striking FFs.

# Event Description While flow testing hydrants in our district, we encountered a "major failure" of a test hydrant. This particular hydrant has a 5" discharge and two 2 1/2" discharges. A static pressure cap was placed on the 5" discharge of the hydrant. As one member began to open the hydrant, the collar connecting the hydrant to the main failed causing the hydrant to be launched about three feet into the air. The hydrant nearly struck the three members gathered around it. Lessons Learned Unfortunately this type of event can not be prevented. However, we can strive to ensure firefighter safety by making sure that no member stands in front of or over the top of a hydrant that is being tested. In addition to the possibility of the hydrant coming loose from the main, hydrants caps and packing materials can also fail causing the potential for injury.

#08-295

Discussion Questions 1.What agency is responsible for hydrant inspections in your jurisdiction? 2. When was the last time you charged a hydrant? 3. Does your hydrant charging procedure include an inspection step before the nut on the bonnet is opened? 4. Would your current inspection program or charging procedure identify any potential hazards with the hydrant in this weeks report? 5. What level of PPE does your department require for hydrant operations?