Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Practice Exam

Which type of fire sprinkler system is recommended for a facility that includes a large server room and computer/audiovisual equipment?

1. Wet pipe system

2. Dry pipe system

3. Pre-action system

4. Deluge system

The correct answer is: Pre-action system

A pre-action sprinkler system is highly recommended for facilities with sensitive equipment, such as server rooms and audiovisual setups. This type of system combines features of both wet and dry systems, providing a safeguard against accidental discharge of water while still ensuring rapid response in the event of a fire. In a pre-action system, the pipes are filled with air, and a separate detection system must activate before water flows into the pipes. This means that, even if there is a false alarm, there will be no water damage caused to the sensitive equipment unless a real fire is detected. The dual action of detection and then the opening of the valves ensures that water is only introduced into the pipes after a fire has been confirmed, which minimizes the risk of damage to valuable electronic equipment. In contrast, a wet pipe system, while suitable for many areas, would release water immediately upon activation, which could lead to significant damage to electronic equipment in case of a false alarm or unintended trigger. A dry pipe system could be a viable option, but it also requires a delay in activation and is generally more suitable for spaces where the risk of freezing is high, rather than for environments that require immediate protection without the risk of unwanted water discharge. A deluge system is typically used in environments