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In public transit maintenance centres and heavy industrial environments, spatial organization and service equipment management represent major strategic challenges. Air, water, or fluid distribution hoses accumulating on the floor create serious risks of workplace accidents, premature equipment wear, and operational inefficiency.
This article presents in detail the technical project carried out by the Multi PSI team for the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais (STO). Through the installation of nearly thirty Hannay Reels industrial hose reels mounted on the ceiling, we examine how a custom ergonomic design transforms technicians' daily work while guaranteeing maximum safety and a lasting return on investment.
Table of contents
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Strategic advantages of ceiling mounting and the spring mechanism
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Comparison table: Traditional hose management vs. Hannay Reels hose reels
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Key steps in a successful industrial installation by Multi PSI
Project overview and context of the STO intervention
The Société de Transport de l'Outaouais (STO) manages an extensive public transit network that moves tens of thousands of riders every day. To keep this bus fleet in flawless operating condition, the heavy mechanical and maintenance shops must run without interruption. In this highly demanding setting, managing water and compressed air supply hoses is a constant logistical challenge.
Our team at Multi PSI was mandated to design and deploy a comprehensive distribution solution. As part of this project, our team installed nearly thirty Hannay Reels hose reels for our client, the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais. These reels, all equipped with spring mechanisms and mounted on the ceiling, are specifically designed for optimal hose management in industrial environments.
Each reel can hold a specific length of hose, facilitated by an adjustable stop ball at its end for quick and safe handling. This configuration ensures immediate access to pneumatic tools and lubricant lines, no matter which workstation the technician is at in the shop.
To learn more about our work in the public and municipal sectors, visit our page dedicated to Multi PSI industrial projects.
Technical analysis of Hannay Reels industrial hose reels
Choosing the Hannay Reels brand was an obvious decision for this large-scale project. Recognized worldwide for the unmatched robustness of its reels, the brand manufactures heavy-gauge steel hose reels capable of withstanding the most extreme mechanical stresses found in public transit garages.
Components built for heavy industry
The industrial reels installed during this project are built with reinforced drums, high-flow swivel joints, and lifetime-lubricated ball bearings. These features prevent pressure leaks and minimize preventive maintenance needs.
The precision of the adjustable stop system
Each unit is fitted with an adjustable stop ball positioned on the hose. This simple but crucial element allows mechanics to set the exact suspension height of the hose when it's at rest. Grabbing the hose becomes instant, with no repetitive stretching required.
Strategic advantages of ceiling mounting and the spring mechanism
Installing the reels overhead represents a true optimization of the working floor space. By making use of the building's overhead structure, Multi PSI freed up 100% of the floor's driving surface.
Eliminating floor obstacles
This solution ensures hoses stay suspended and don't trail across the floor, which not only improves workplace safety but also contributes to a cleaner, better-organized environment. Tool carts, lifts, and buses can move freely, without any risk of hoses being crushed.
How the automatic retraction mechanism works
The internal spring mechanism provides smooth, controlled retraction. A simple pull releases the retaining latch, letting the technician unwind the exact length of fluid line needed. Once the task is done, a light tug re-engages the automatic return, safely retracting the hose.
To explore our full range of dispensing systems, please see our product catalog.
Impact on workplace safety and operational ergonomics
Preventing workplace accidents is a top priority for the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais. Same-level falls caused by tripping over soft hoses account for a significant share of work stoppages in the automotive maintenance sector.
Compliance with health and safety standards
Industrial hose reels play a crucial role in improving operational efficiency, particularly in sectors like transit, maintenance, and space management. Their sturdy design and ease of use make them an ideal choice for optimizing industrial processes while reducing accident risks.
Consult CNESST's recommendations on fall prevention in the workplace to learn more about provincial regulations in Quebec.
Reducing physical fatigue among workers
Workstation ergonomics are considerably improved. By eliminating laborious manual coiling and the pulling of heavy hoses trailing on the floor, the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affecting the back and shoulders is drastically reduced.
Comparison table: Traditional hose management vs. Hannay Reels hose reels
To assess the concrete impact of this installation, here is a summary table comparing the traditional floor-based approach with the integration of Multi PSI's suspended Hannay Reels hose reels.
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Evaluation criterion |
Traditional floor management |
Suspended Hannay Reels (Multi PSI) |
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Tripping risk |
High (hoses spread across walkways) |
Nearly zero (hoses suspended overhead) |
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Hose lifespan |
Short (crushed by wheels, foot traffic) |
Maximum (permanent protection from wear) |
|
Storage time |
Repetitive time loss (manual coiling) |
Instant (automatic spring retraction) |
|
Shop cleanliness |
Grease and dirt build-up on hoses |
Clean, professional environment |
|
Floor space gained |
Cluttered work zones |
100% of the work surface clear |
Key steps in a successful industrial installation by Multi PSI
The success of the project for our client, the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais, rests on a rigorous methodology applied by our qualified staff.
- Feasibility study and structural analysis: Assessing the load capacity of the ceiling beams and identifying optimal anchor points.
- Custom selection of the reels: Choosing the exact Hannay Reels model based on the fluids distributed (high- and low-pressure water, compressed air, oil, coolant).
- Mounting and securing: Robust anchoring of nearly thirty units to the ceiling using heavy-duty industrial supports.
- Connection and stop-ball calibration: Connecting to the main lines and custom-adjusting the grip height.
- Pressure testing and staff training: Verifying the complete airtightness/watertightness of the network and confirming ease of use with STO's teams.
To learn more about the brand's history and standards, visit the official Hannay Reels website.
Need a customized assessment for your workshop? Contact the industrial installation experts today on our Multi PSI contact page.
Strategic recommendations
The installation of nearly thirty Hannay Reels industrial hose reels at the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais perfectly illustrates Multi PSI's commitment to delivering durable, safe, and highly effective industrial solutions. By keeping hoses off the floor, STO immediately benefits from a net reduction in workplace accident risk, lower equipment replacement costs, and a measurable improvement in maintenance team efficiency.
Optimize the safety and productivity of your facility today!
Looking to modernize your mechanical shop, plant, or transit centre with custom industrial hose reels? Trust the proven expertise of Multi PSI. Our experts guide you from initial analysis through to turnkey installation.
Contact Multi PSI today for a personalized, no-obligation quote!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why choose Hannay Reels for an industrial environment?
Hannay Reels hose reels are known for their sturdy steel construction, long-term reliability, and high-strength components, perfectly suited to the demanding conditions of transit and manufacturing shops. Most components are also replaceable.
What are the benefits of installing hose reels on the ceiling?
Ceiling mounting fully frees up the floor work surface, eliminates tripping hazards from hoses, and protects hoses from being crushed by heavy vehicles.
How does the spring mechanism on an industrial hose reel work?
The built-in spring mechanism lets you easily unwind the hose to the desired length using a stop system. A simple pull releases the latch to automatically rewind the hose.
What is the purpose of the stop ball on a reel hose?
The stop ball lets you set how much hose remains accessible at rest, keeping the fitting from retracting too far up into the ceiling-mounted reel.
Can Hannay Reels hose reels be installed for different types of fluids?
Yes, Hannay Reels industrial hose reels work with a wide range of fluids, including compressed air, water, lubricating oils, grease, washer fluid, and fuel.
How does this installation improve workplace safety at STO?
By keeping hoses suspended out of walkways, the installation drastically reduces same-level falls and ensures a completely clear environment for mechanics.
How many reels were installed in this project for the Société de Transport de l'Outaouais?
The Multi PSI team mounted and connected nearly thirty (30) industrial Hannay Reels hose reels throughout STO's shops.
What is the average lifespan of a Hannay Reels hose reel in a maintenance shop?
Thanks to their rugged construction and minimal preventive maintenance needs, Hannay Reels hose reels offer an operational lifespan of several decades.
Does Multi PSI offer full installation and maintenance service for hose reels?
Absolutely. Multi PSI handles the initial assessment, equipment supply, secure ceiling anchoring, technical connection, and after-sales service.
How do I get a quote for an industrial hose reel installation at my business?
Simply contact the Multi PSI team directly through their official website or by phone to schedule a technical assessment visit of your facility.
Author: Multi PSI has been an expert in high-pressure washing equipment for over 25 years. As an equipment distributor, we also offer mobile and workshop repair services. We are recognized for our expertise in custom projects, including washing platforms and trailers, as well as the installation of washing systems with reels, poles, or rails.
Updated on August 26, 2026