Why is the fire tamper switch not connected to the main fire alarm?

The fire tamper switch is designed to monitor whether a fire protection system's component, such as a sprinkler, is functioning properly. By being separate from the main fire alarm system, it offers supervisory alarm features that allow for the detection of issues that could hinder the effectiveness of the fire protection system. This separation ensures that if the tamper switch is activated—indicating a potential problem—the supervisory alarm will trigger without affecting the operational integrity of the main fire alarm, which is focused primarily on detecting and responding to fire.

This setup allows for a more effective monitoring system overall. It highlights potential issues with fire protection equipment while still maintaining the distinct operational roles of each system. Keeping the tamper switch separate ensures that it can alert responders to specific problems without confusing those signals with fire alarms. In essence, the supervisory function of the tamper switch is crucial for maintaining fire safety standards.