What is the minimum horizontal clearance required between sprinklers and other structural members under a steeply pitched surface?

The minimum horizontal clearance required between sprinklers and other structural members under a steeply pitched surface is established to ensure that the water spray from the sprinkler heads is not obstructed, allowing for optimal performance in the event of a fire. A clearance of 24 inches is specified in various fire protection codes to ensure that the spray pattern can function effectively and to avoid any interference caused by adjacent structures.

This clearance helps to prevent any potential issues with water distribution that could arise if the sprinkler heads are too close to walls or other surfaces. Maintaining this specified distance contributes to uniform coverage and ensures that the heat from a fire can be adequately detected and suppressed by the sprinklers.

In contrast, other distances provided in the choices may not comply with this requirement as effectively, highlighting the importance of adhering to established fire safety criteria to protect lives and property.