Fire Sprinkler Safety Alert: Counterfeit Sprinkler Heads
Property owners, facility managers, and commercial building operators should be aware that counterfeit fire sprinkler heads have been identified in the marketplace over the years, including products falsely marked as major manufacturers and carrying unauthorized certification marks.
Counterfeit sprinkler heads may not perform as intended during a fire emergency and could put lives and property at risk.
One Indicator to Look For
One known indicator involves differences in the load screw assembly. In documented examples, the authentic sprinkler head features a smooth tapered load screw, while the counterfeit version contains exposed threading.
Image courtesy of Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
When to Have Heads Verified
If you discover older sprinkler heads with questionable markings, unknown origins, or suspect components, consider having them inspected by a qualified fire protection contractor or fire sprinkler consultant.
While the likelihood of encountering these counterfeit sprinkler heads is low, verification can provide peace of mind and help ensure your fire protection system is operating as intended.
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About the authors
Fairfield Fire Protection is a family-owned company based at 508 W. Sixth Ave., Lancaster, Ohio, proudly serving Lancaster and surrounding communities with commercial fire protection services since our founding. Our licensed technicians inspect, test, install, and service fire sprinkler systems, fire alarms, extinguishers, hydrants, exit lighting, and kitchen suppression systems across Ohio.
We are members of NAFED and the NFPA, and we work to NFPA 10, 13, 25, 72, and 96 and the Ohio Fire Code. This article reflects field practice on commercial systems our technicians inspect and service every week.
Questions about your system? Call (740) 400-2585 or email Service@FairfieldFireProtection.com. For 24-hour emergencies, call 740-974-0363.