In uninterrupted protection, how are the primary and reserve agent supplies connected?

• A. Only one supply is used and is connected to the distribution piping.
• B. The primary supply is permanently connected, but the reserve is not.
• C. Both the primary and the reserve agent supplies shall be permanently connected to the distribution piping and arranged for easy changeover.
• D. Changeover occurs automatically without connection to piping.

Answer: (C)

The idea is to ensure continuous protection by keeping a ready-to-feed supply available without interrupting discharge. In uninterrupted protection, both the primary and the reserve agent supplies must be permanently connected to the distribution piping. This arrangement lets you switch from the primary to the reserve without opening or breaking the piping path, so the protected area continues to receive agent during the changeover. The connection is paired with a changeover method (manual or automatic) that is easy to operate, minimizes downtime, and avoids air ingress or pressure loss in the piping. If the reserve isn’t connected or the transfer would require disconnecting the piping, there would be a break in protection. That’s why having both supplies permanently connected and arranged for a seamless changeover is the correct approach.