In a building with a fixed fire suppression system, portable extinguishers are not required in the structure.

• A. They are always required regardless of the system
• B. They are never required
• C. They are required only if the system covers the entire building
• D. They are not required in the presence of the fixed system

Answer: (D)

When a fixed fire suppression system is designed to protect the entire building, it provides primary fire control across the structure, which can satisfy the level of protection required by code. In that case, portable extinguishers are not needed throughout the building because the fixed system handles fire suppression. Portable extinguishers remain useful for quick response in areas not covered by the fixed system or as a backup if the system is temporarily unavailable, but if the system provides full coverage, the additional requirement for extinguishers is not necessary. Always check local codes and the AHJ, since there may be specific exemptions or high-hazard areas that still require extinguishers.