Challenges in Commissioning Fire Hydrant Booster Systems in Western Australia

Commissioning fire hydrant and combined fire hydrant booster systems presents significant challenges within the Western Australian construction environment. This process can be highly stressful, particularly on high-rise commercial projects where extensive internal fire hydrant pipework is installed. Unlike many other commissioning activities, hydrant testing involves the controlled release of large volumes of water under high pressure—and the potential consequences of poor planning can be catastrophic.

Too often, the industry underestimates the speed and severity of water-related damage. In our experience, it takes only a few minutes for uncontrolled water flow to cause extensive harm to internal finishes, building services, and critical infrastructure. Damage can quickly escalate from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars. Because of this, hydrant commissioning must be treated as a high-risk, high-priority task requiring strict coordination and commitment from all parties involved.

Over recent years, Complete Fire Compliance has observed a concerning decline in how seriously some building companies treat this essential commissioning activity, including a reduction in on-site safety considerations and planning. Five years ago, the majority of commissioning engagements received by CFC originated directly from building companies. Today, builders represent one of our smallest client groups. Instead, we are now predominantly engaged by installing contractors, which introduces additional challenges.

While contractor-led engagement may be workable for smaller projects, CFC strongly believes that on large-scale developments the principal builder must take the lead in organising, coordinating, and preparing for hydrant commissioning. The builder is ultimately responsible for ensuring site readiness, managing risk, protecting completed works, and facilitating the involvement of all relevant stakeholders—including plumbers, fire contractors, hydraulic consultants, and safety personnel.

Furthermore, even when a pre-inspection is conducted and CFC provides a clear outline of the testing sequence—including required pre-test items, safety controls, and instructions to avoid scheduling water-sensitive works during the testing period—we continue to encounter situations where none of the required preparations have been completed upon arrival for commissioning. This lack of readiness increases risk, delays the project, and undermines the integrity and safety of the testing process.

CFC remains committed to supporting the industry through clear communication, strict safety protocols, and collaborative planning. However, we strongly encourage builders and contractors to recognise the critical importance of hydrant commissioning and the substantial risks associated with inadequate preparation. Proper coordination is not only a compliance requirement—it is a fundamental responsibility to protect people, property, and project outcomes.