A Class III system provides 1-1/2" hose stations and connections for what size hose?

A Class III standpipe system is designed to accommodate both 1-1/2-inch and larger hoses, specifically 2-1/2-inch hoses. The primary objective of this system is to provide a readily available water supply for fire-fighting operations, catering to both hand-held hose applications and larger fire service hoses.

The hose connections in a Class III system, which typically feature 2-1/2-inch outlets, enable firefighters to quickly access a significant volume of water to combat fires effectively. The 1-1/2-inch hose stations are intended for use by trained personnel, providing a balance between ease of use and fire suppression capability.

In this context, while 1-1/2-inch hoses are indeed used, the correct reference for the primary connection size that dictates the system's classification and capacity is the 2-1/2-inch hose. This classification allows for rapid deployment of larger hoses that deliver greater water flow, which is critical in addressing more significant fire threats. Therefore, the optimal selection for hose size in conjunction with a Class III system is the 2-1/2-inch hose connection.