Red Seal Sprinkler Fitter Practice Exam

What must be installed in areas where fire sprinkler systems discharge water?

1. Fire hydrants

2. Drains or containment systems

3. Cooling systems

4. Fire alarms

The correct answer is: Drains or containment systems

In areas where fire sprinkler systems discharge water, it is essential to have drains or containment systems installed. This requirement is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, when sprinkler systems activate, they release a significant amount of water to suppress a fire. Without a proper drainage or containment system, this water can accumulate, leading to water damage, creating slip hazards, and possibly overwhelming local drainage systems, which can exacerbate flooding issues. Drains help to channel the discharged water away from important structural components, safeguarding the facility's integrity and ensuring it remains functional immediately after a sprinkler event. Containment systems, such as spill trays or sump pumps, are designed to manage and redirect the excess water safely, ensuring that it does not interfere with the surrounding environment or operations within the facility. While fire hydrants, cooling systems, and fire alarms play critical roles in fire safety and management, they do not directly address the necessary precautions needed for managing water discharge from sprinkler systems, making drains and containment systems the most relevant and required option in this context.