07/09/2026

You Asked... We Answered

You Asked: Are spare sprinklers required to be maintained onsite, or can they be kept by our contracted sprinkler company?

We Answered: Spare sprinklers must be maintained onsite. Under K353, facilities are required to keep an adequate supply of spare sprinkler heads on the premises so that any sprinkler that has activated or becomes damaged can be promptly replaced. 

The Ohio Department of Health’s Preventative Maintenance Manual, consistent with NFPA 13 and NFPA 25, provides the following guidance:

• Fewer than 300 sprinkler heads: Maintain at least 6 spare sprinkler heads onsite.
• 300–1,000 sprinkler heads: Maintain at least 12 spare sprinkler heads onsite.
• More than 1,000 sprinkler heads: Maintain at least 24 spare sprinkler heads onsite.
• Keep a minimum of two spare sprinkler heads of each type and temperature rating installed in the facility.
• Store spare sprinkler heads in a designated cabinet where the temperature will not exceed 100°F.
• If dry sprinklers of varying lengths are installed, spare dry sprinklers are not required, provided there is an approved means to promptly return the system to service.