Which term describes covers for sprinklers before system activation?

• A. Sprinkler painting
• B. Listing requirements
• C. Protective caps
• D. Fire tests

Answer: (C)

Protective caps are temporary covers placed on sprinkler heads during construction and before the system is activated. They shield the heads from paint, dust, and damage and keep the sprinkler orifice clear so it will operate properly when the system is commissioned. These caps are removed as part of the final testing and activation process.

Sprinkler painting would involve coating the heads with paint, which is not the term for the protective covering. Listing requirements relate to approvals for components, not to covers on the sprinklers. Fire tests refer to the procedures used to verify system function, not to physical protection of the heads.