What is the purpose of a tamper switch on a water-based fire protection system?

• A. To shut off water supply when accidental leakage
• B. To detect unauthorized access or manipulation of valves, controllers, or other components
• C. To monitor water pressure
• D. To reset the alarm after discharge

Answer: (B)

Tamper switches are used to monitor and report any unauthorized access or manipulation of critical components in a water-based fire protection system. They’re wired to the fire alarm control panel so that if a valve handle is moved, a cabinet or cover is opened, or an actuator is tampered with, the system raises a tamper alarm. This helps ensure the water supply remains ready and that any attempted bypass or maintenance activity is detected quickly. It’s not meant to shut off water automatically, which is a different function tied to valves or leak isolation, nor is it used to monitor water pressure (that role belongs to pressure switches or gauges), nor to reset the alarm after discharge (reset is done through the panel or control actions).