Which is a safety procedure related to fire hose testing?

• A. Walk beside pressurized hose at all times
• B. Stand directly near the nozzle during testing
• C. Only walk near pressurized hose when necessary
• D. Keep hoses inflated when not in use

Answer: (C)

Pressurized fire hoses carry potential energy that can suddenly move or burst, so staying out of the path of a hose is a key safety practice. The safest approach is to only walk near a pressurized hose when you must to perform a task or take a measurement, and even then keep out of the hose’s potential swing area and maintain control of the hose. This minimizes the risk of injury from sudden movement or nozzle reaction during testing.

Walking beside a pressurized hose at all times increases exposure to whip or kickback; standing directly near the nozzle places you in the immediate line of discharge and surge energy; keeping hoses inflated when not in use means they’re under pressure and can surprise you if they move or rupture. Following the safe approach means you observe and participate when necessary, but otherwise keep a safe distance and maintain proper control and barriers around the test area.