What must be ensured regarding unions used in sprinkler systems?

Unions used in sprinkler systems must be listed specifically for that use to ensure safety and compliance with relevant codes and standards. This requirement is fundamental because unions play a crucial role in the functionality and maintenance of the sprinkler system.

Using listed unions ensures that they have been rigorously tested and approved for the type of fluid they will handle, the pressure they will be subjected to, and the environmental conditions they are expected to face. This contributes to the overall reliability and effectiveness of the fire protection system, as improper or non-listed components could lead to failures, leaks, or even catastrophic malfunctions during a fire event.

By adhering to the requirement for listed unions, installers and maintainers of sprinkler systems can have confidence that the materials will perform as expected under the pressures and conditions dictated by fire safety regulations. It also reinforces the importance of following local codes and consensus standards, which are designed to promote safety in fire protection systems.