What should be posted near the main control valve according to regulations?

Posting the Certificate of Fitness (COF) number and the signature of the COF holder near the main control valve is crucial for ensuring compliance with safety regulations for sprinkler systems. This requirement is set in place to guarantee that the operation and maintenance of the systems are conducted by a qualified individual. The COF indicates that the person has received the necessary training and possesses the relevant knowledge to manage and operate the fire protection system safely and effectively.

By having this information readily visible near the main control valve, any personnel who might need to operate the system can quickly confirm the credentials of the individual responsible for its oversight. This not only promotes accountability but also helps ensure that emergency responders or any operators can contact the correct personnel in the event of a malfunction or emergency.

While inspection records, fire safety guidelines, and emergency contact numbers are important for overall safety and compliance, they do not directly serve the same crucial function of verifying the qualifications of the individual responsible for the system's operation. Therefore, the emphasis on displaying the COF number and the signature of the COF holder near the main control valve serves a fundamental role in safeguarding the effectiveness and reliability of the sprinkler system.