What can you do to prevent the fire alarm system from activating during hot work near a sprinkler head?

When performing hot work near a sprinkler head, safeguarding the sprinkler from heat, sparks, and other potential sources of ignition is crucial in preventing false alarms. Using a non-combustible barrier is effective because it creates a protective shield against the heat generated during hot work, ensuring that the sprinkler is not triggered unnecessarily. This method is reliable since the barrier will not catch fire and will resist the effects of heat, maintaining the integrity of the sprinkler system and avoiding disruptions.

Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not provide the same level of protection or can be inefficient. Notifying the fire department may alert them but does not prevent the alarm from going off in the first place. Covering the sprinkler with a tarp can create a greater risk of heat buildup, potentially causing the sprinkler to activate. Reducing the temperature of the work area is not practically achievable during hot work and does not directly protect the sprinkler head itself. Therefore, utilizing a non-combustible barrier is the most effective and practical solution.