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A lot of Australian hydrants are sorta similar (as in underground) but there are some key differences.
#1 - the hydrant connection (standpipe) is a simple 90 degree turn with bayonet hooks - not the multi-turn system show in the video
#2 - they are more often located in the footpath or front yard (chainage) rather than under the road surface
#3 - they are often checked on a 24 month cycle (if not sooner) for operation and access.
we still have to use a key to operate the valve, and we ALWAYS flush the hydrant before connecting the lines.
I've had to break the rust seizing a hydrant cover once, and I've been cut once clearing broken glass out of a pit. If you work in an area which often floods, or has significant runoff, finding the pits filled with sludge(what appears to be the case in the photo) is common - thanks fully I never faced it outside of training.
Some councils used to run "adopt a hydrant" community awareness programs to help resident keep the areas around hydrants clear of shrubs, etc, and to ensure the pits never filled with sand or runoff. The council/volly brigade would maintain the street markers (blue cats-eye reflector, white paint markers on lid and curb, and signage if near pole) where I was - I'm not sure about other council areas.
bob_3000 (Yesterday)
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