The critical role of hose asset management in industrial safety and efficiency

29 May, 2025

In industrial environments where felxible hose assemblies play a vital role in operations, effective hose management often doesn’t get the attention it deserves, until something goes wrong. Yet, hoses are critical assets that ensure the smooth transfer of liquids, gases, or solids across a wide range of industries, from petrochemicals to food processing and offshore energy. Poor hose management
can result in equipment failure, costly downtime, and serious safety incidents. This is why robust Hose Asset Management is no longer just a value-add; it’s an operational necessity.

Hoses, by their very nature, are subject to wear and degradation over time. Regular handling, exposure to harsh chemicals, temperature extremes, and mechanical stress all contribute to their eventual deterioration. A seemingly minor fault, such as a small abrasion or a degraded coupling, can rapidly escalate into a catastrophic failure. The risks are well documented: unplanned
shutdowns, environmental spills, worker injuries, and regulatory non-compliance. Yet, many organisations still rely on ad-hoc
inspection methods or assume hoses will remain safe and functional until failure makes itself known. Proactive Hose Asset
Management addresses these risks head-on

The benefits of a proactive approach

A structured Hose Asset Management System brings several benefits. It ensures hoses are correctly specified, installed, inspected, tested, and tracked throughout their lifecycle. This reduces the likelihood of failure, extends the life of hose assemblies, and optimises operational efficiency. When assets are logged and monitored systematically, it allows for predictive maintenance rather than reactive repair. This proactive approach helps to minimise costly unplanned downtime and increases the reliability of the entire system.

Data-driven maintenance and tracking

At its core, effective hose management is about data. Gathering it, analysing it, and acting on it. Modern Hose Management
Systems often include tagging technologies such as RFID or barcodes, enabling quick identification of hoses and instant access
to their service history. Maintenance teams can quickly determine when a hose was last tested, whether it’s due for
inspection, and its performance record over time. This level of visibility not only enhances safety but also supports
compliance with industry standards such as BS EN ISO 8331 and HSE guidelines.

Enhancing compliance and reputation

For industries operating in high-risk environments, such as offshore oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing, hose management is also about reputational risk. A well-documented system demonstrates commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and best practices. These are qualities that are increasingly valued by stakeholders, regulators, and insurers alike.

Supporting sustainability goals

The move towards more sustainable operations further highlights the importance of hose management. Well maintained hoses operate more efficiently and are less prone to leaks, reducing waste and the risk of environmental contamination. Furthermore, extending hose life through proper care and monitoring reduces the need for premature replacements, contributing to sustainability
goals.

A critical investment in safety and efficiency

Ultimately, Hose Asset Management is about taking control of a critical aspect of industrial operations. It’s a system that
improves safety, ensures compliance, extends asset life, and reduces costs. For organisations serious about maintaining
operational integrity and protecting both people and the environment, investing time and resources into hose management isn’t
optional. It’s essential

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