Recently we were performing an audit at a clients facility in which we had done the previous 3-year PSM/RMP audit. And during that prior audit, we observed a damaged hydrant that had been out of service for several months, and we came across another instance where the facility identified another hydrant that was damaged; both were damaged by powered mobile equipment. So, of course, we wrote up a finding referencing the state’s fire code, since their fire water system is their primary mitigation system for their covered processes, which said:
507.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other approved means shall comply with Section 312.
NOTE: SAFTENG members can read Is a bollard just a post? and Is your plant speed limit based on engineering or a whim
So the facility had a local engineering firm design a “protection system” for the 60+ hydrants that could be struck by a vehicle. Now we cited the above requirement, which also mentions Section 312; however, it does not say:
507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.
However, Section 312.2.5 makes it pretty clear that the bollard/protective barrier be maintained 3′ from the object being protected:
5. Located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the protected object.
We also need to mention:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.
So with all this said, would you agree or disagree that this design is “code compliant”:
This is not an actual photo of the hydrants at the facility, but the guarding is the same.