If paint gets on the sprinkler head or if foreign material accumulates on it, what action must be taken?

In situations where paint or foreign material accumulates on a sprinkler head, it is essential to prioritize the effective functioning of the fire suppression system. The correct course of action is to replace the impacted sprinkler head. This ensures that the sprinkler can function optimally without obstruction, which is crucial for effective fire suppression. A sprinkler head that is covered in paint or debris may not activate as intended during a fire emergency, potentially compromising safety.

While examining or scraping clean the sprinkler head might seem practical, those actions do not guarantee the long-term reliability and effectiveness that replacement provides. Additionally, repair is not typically an option for sprinkler heads, as they are critical life safety devices that must meet strict operational standards. Thus, replacement is necessary to maintain compliance with safety regulations and to ensure the system performs as designed.