What are the potential consequences of improper placement of sprinkler heads near obstructions, such as ductwork or lighting fixtures?

Improper placement of sprinkler heads near obstructions, such as ductwork or lighting fixtures, can significantly compromise the effectiveness of the sprinkler system and increase the risk of fire spread. The primary consequence is the obstruction of the sprinkler head's spray pattern. Sprinkler heads are designed to distribute water in a specific pattern to effectively suppress a fire. An obstruction directly above or beside the sprinkler head can block or deflect the spray, preventing the water from reaching the fire or reducing the amount of water that reaches the fire. This can create a shadow area where the fire can continue to burn and spread. For example, if a sp....