What percentage of portable fire extinguishers can be removed if 1½ inch hose lines are capable of reaching all parts of the building?

The correct answer regarding the percentage of portable fire extinguishers that can be removed when 1½ inch hose lines are capable of reaching all parts of the building is 50%.

This is based on guidelines that allow for a reduction in the number of fire extinguishers in an area that is adequately covered by fixed firefighting systems, such as hose lines. When the building is equipped with 1½ inch hose lines that can access all areas, it is determined that those areas will have a more effective means of fire control compared to portable extinguishers, hence allowing for a reduction in the number of portable units required.

The rationale behind this guideline is centered on improving firefighting efficiency and ensuring adequate fire protection while optimizing resource allocation. A decrease of up to 50% reflects a reasonable compromise between accessibility and reliance on fixed hose lines, which can provide a more substantial and sustained firefighting effort than portable units alone.