Water control valves in an automatic sprinkler system must be?

• A. Open and secured/supervised
• B. Closed
• C. Partially opened
• D. Not required to be monitored

Answer: (A)

Water supply to an automatic sprinkler system must be open and under supervision. Keeping the water control valve open ensures that water can reach the system whenever a head is activated, which is essential for effective fire suppression. Securing or supervising the valve provides a reliable indication of its position; if someone were to close it, a supervisory signal alerts building management or the fire alarm system that the flow path has been interrupted. A closed valve would prevent water from reaching the system, a partially opened valve could impede flow, and a valve that isn’t monitored could change position without anyone knowing. Therefore, the valve should be kept open and either secured in that position or under ongoing supervision.