What is the primary function of a tamper switch in a fire safety system?

The primary function of a tamper switch in a fire safety system is to supervise control valves and initiate alarm signals. This is critical because tamper switches are designed to monitor the status of valves that control the flow of water to fire protection systems, such as sprinklers. If a valve is tampered with—whether left closed or obstructed—the tamper switch will detect this change and trigger an alarm signal to alert the fire safety personnel.

Being able to monitor these control valves ensures that the fire suppression systems remain operable and ready for use in case of a fire. The effectiveness of a fire protection system largely depends on the availability of water, which is why the supervisory role of the tamper switch is essential for maintaining safety in high-rise buildings.