What is the operating pressure at the nozzle for hand lines?

The operating pressure at the nozzle for hand lines is typically set at around 50 PSI (pounds per square inch). This pressure is considered optimal for effectively delivering water to suppress a fire while maintaining a manageable flow rate and reach. At this pressure, firefighters can achieve a balance between the necessary force to project water over distances and minimizing the strain on operations, allowing for a better maneuverability of the hose and control of the stream.

Using 50 PSI helps to ensure that the water is delivered at an effective velocity to penetrate the fire, supporting both extinguishment and cooling efforts. Higher pressures could create unnecessary difficulty in handling hoses and managing flow, while lower pressures might not provide sufficient reach or impact on the fire target.