Red Seal Sprinkler Fitter Practice Exam

What is the maximum spacing allowed between commercial sprinkler heads?

1. 10 feet

2. 12 feet

3. 15 feet

4. 20 feet

The correct answer is: 12 feet

The maximum spacing allowed between commercial sprinkler heads is determined by the type of system being installed and the specific requirements set forth in the applicable codes and standards, primarily the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines. For standard commercial application using spray sprinkler heads, the spacing typically should not exceed 12 feet. This distance is established to ensure that the water coverage effectively extinguishes or controls a fire, taking into account various factors such as the type of sprinkler, the type of hazard present, and the design density required for effective fire protection. Maintaining a maximum spacing of 12 feet helps ensure overlapping coverage is achieved and minimizes the risk of inadequate suppression of a fire. This spacing also accounts for potential obstructions and different ceiling heights, which can affect the distribution of water. If sprinkler heads are spaced too far apart, there might be gaps in coverage that could lead to a fire spreading unchecked. Therefore, keeping the spacing at or below 12 feet is critical for effective fire protection performance in commercial settings.